Filmmaker Profile: Look Back At It by Felicia Pride
Welcome to the Bushwick Film Festival Q&A series, where we introduce you to the incredible filmmakers behind this year's lineup. Each of these talented storytellers has crafted a unique vision, reflecting diverse perspectives and powerful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences today. In this series, you'll get an inside look at what inspired their work, the challenges they faced, and the creative processes that brought their films to life. Through candid interviews, they share their thoughts on the impact of their films, the themes they explore, and their hopes for how audiences will connect with their stories. Whether you're here for drama, comedy, documentary, or experimental films, these filmmakers are sure to inspire you with their dedication and passion for the craft. We hope you enjoy getting to know the voices behind this year's festival as much as we have enjoyed bringing their films to our screens. Let’s dive into their stories!
A forty-something single mother gets her groove back with a little assistance from her teenage daughter.
Q&A WITH DIRECTOR FELICIA PRIDE
What inspired you to create this film, and how did the initial idea come to you?
The most important women in my life are my mother, sister, and my niece. Individually, they are complex and loving and giving and complicated. Together, they love hard and sometimes messily. And they’re a hoot. LOOK BACK AT IT is loosely based on them. I asked myself what's an extreme thing a daughter could do to show her mother that she wants more for her.
Describe who you want this film to reach.
Black women across generations and then anyone who sees their family in it.
What was your favorite part of making your film? Memories from the process?
I had the opportunity to work with so many family and friends: My mother was location manager. My niece was a P.A. (her first time on set). My bestie did the hair. My cousin acted in it. My homeboy was a P.A. We filmed at my aunt's house. The way that Baltimore showed up for us was incredible. The set felt like family. Like home.
Tell us an anecdote about casting or working with your actors.
More than half of our cast is from Baltimore, including our lead actress Angel Laketa Moore. I was also able to work with my cousin Aaron Watkins who played Dante in the film.
How do you feel about your film being screened in front of a festival audience?
It is one of the best feelings in the world. A mix of nerves, exhilaration, validation, and satisfaction.
BIOGRAPHY
Felicia Pride is a TV writer / producer and an award-winning filmmaker (BEL-AIR, GREY’S ANATOMY, QUEEN SUGAR, REALLY LOVE,) who’s career in media and entertainment has spanned almost twenty-five years. Felicia founded and runs HONEY CHILE, a media + production company that tells stories by, for, and / or about Black women 40+. HONEY CHILE currently has projects setup at Netflix, Amazon, CBS Studios, Universal, Sony, and Lifetime. The first podcast out of its audio division, CHILE, PLEASE, was twice-nominated for an NAACP Image award. Its latest feature film proof of concept, LOOK BACK AT IT, which Felicia wrote and directed, was nominated for a Humanitas Prize and won the Audience Award at BlackStar.
Thank you for joining us for this special Q&A with the filmmakers of the Bushwick Film Festival. We hope this conversation has given you insight into the artistry, dedication, and heart that went into bringing their films to life. Each of these creators represents the spirit of independent filmmaking—fearlessly telling stories that reflect the complexities of our world and the personal experiences that shape us. As you continue exploring this year’s lineup, we encourage you to dive deeper into these works and discover the powerful messages, emotions, and perspectives they offer. Whether you're a long-time supporter of indie films or a newcomer to the festival, your engagement and curiosity make all the difference in uplifting these voices. Stay tuned for more filmmaker spotlights, and we look forward to seeing you at this year’s screenings. Let’s continue celebrating the magic of storytelling together!
