The piece gives a visual glimpse into mind and heart of someone that was assaulted, as they traverse the various stages of grieving and healing to once again find some sense of normalcy. Faith interrupted is directed by Marquis Simmons.
Born and raised in Chicago, Marquis displays a diverse body of work as a filmmaker.
After transferring from Arizona State University to Columbia College Chicago at 21 Marquis started Directing Music Videos for students, one including Hanna Ashbrook (The Voice Season 7 contestant) as well as local acts such as gospel singer Tina Crawley, Sicko Mobb and Jeremih. While attending Columbia College Chicago created a TV Show that aired on a local network. It is our pleasure to interview Marquis for LA Indies.
What was the inspiration behind the making of your film?
Bringing light to the trauma of what someone goes through on a very triggering subject.
What is the most challenging aspect of working in this particular genre?
The challenging aspect of working on this particular genre is navigating our way through the different emotions of a woman being sexually assaulted.
When did you realize that you wanted to work in media and make films and what was the first film project that you created as a director?
I knew I wanted to make films when I was in my second semester at Arizona State University. I got a chance to meet some incredible TV show creators and Directors: Charles "Chuck" Eglee (Dark Angel & The Shield) , Phil Rosenthal (Everybody Love Raymond & Coach) and Felicia Henderson (Soul Food & Fresh Prince of Bel-Air). The first film I ever Directed was called Breaking Point (2013), back when I attended Columbia College Chicago.
How did you choose the cast and the crew of the film and what was the most challenging aspect of production?
I Chose Ty Love because I've worked with her before on a previous project. I've seen her range as an actress and pitched her to the Producer (Thomas McIntosh). The most challenging aspect was Directing her through 7 stages of grief. Putting her through the psychological breakdown and mental trauma of being sexually assaulted was TOUGH.
What genre of filmmaking fascinates you as a director and which genres do you prefer to work on?
For me it's Drama, Suspense/Thriller, I like to engage in Tragedy.
How can cinema change the world and have an impact on society?
By representation in diversity, being able to relate to the audience while challenging their morals.
What is your next film project as a director?
My next film is called Splintered, About a struggling underground fighter, fighting against the odds to make his dream come true as a professional fighter.