Alum
Jessica Petelle
Independent film and television producer and director
Jessica Petelle, BA'00, director and producer at Brad Art Films USA
“I’m from Churubusco, Indiana. I graduated from IU in theater and telecommunications in 2000. Originally, I chose theater because I was so inspired creatively. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to be in a creative career. As time went on, I started getting inspired by the telecommunications department with radio and television.
Today, I’m an independent film and television producer and director. When I’m on set, it’s a lot of problem solving. I’m always making sure everyone has what they need. If I’m directing, it’s a lot more focused on making sure we get what we need with visuals and performances. In the spring, I’ll be directing my very first feature film. It’s a horror-thriller with a female protagonist, so it brings in the two things I really like: creepy genre films and telling stories from a female perspective.
Being in the business for 20 years, I felt like I was the only woman in the room a lot of times. Over the last several years though, there’s been a real emphasis on telling all sorts of stories. I feel that our business is so much richer because of it. I feel like now I can do anything that I want.
I had no safety net when I went from being here and then driving out in my car to L.A., with the exception of 15 other IU grads doing the same thing. We started the Hollywood Hoosiers organization because we really wanted to bring the entertainment alumni together. We share stories, and we try to help each other and support each other. I truly believe if you are working with somebody who gives as much as you give, something good will come out of it."
Written By Erin Stafford
Photos By Jordan Venckus