Tri-State filmmaker showcasing her love of ministry in films

CINCINNATI (WXIX) - A Tri-State filmmaker is combing her love for ministry with stories of encouragement to make an impact on the industry.

From starring on the big screen to directing, shooting, and editing, Alicia Redmond does it all as she brings her stories to life.

“While I love to entertain, I love to touch the soul to touch the heart,” says Redmond. “So, stories like that tend to draw me.”

That passion inspired Redmond to produce her most recent project, “Willows.” A short film set in the 1950′s.

“So ‘Willows’ is my baby,” explains Redmond. “It’s about two sisters. Two estranged sisters who are reuniting for the first time after seven years and the process of healing that has to take place between the two of them.”

“Willow,” which was released in December, is the first project under Redmond’s new film company.

“I did a small showing here, which was really just kind of for myself, as like a coming out for me,” says Redmond. “Stepping out of certain fears you know, and maybe being courageous to say, ‘this is me, this is who I am.’”

Redmond says it’s been a journey getting to this moment.

After acting and studying theater in college, she didn’t step behind the camera until about eight years ago after she was inspired to turn her friend’s play into a short film.

“I think when you are a creative person and when you’re in certain spaces of creativity, there are gifts that you have that you may not know that you have until you actually are open to trying them,” Redmond explains.

“I think when you are a creative person and when you’re in certain spaces of creativity, there are gifts that you have that you may not know that you have until you actually are open to trying them,” Redmon explains.

She tried her hand at several other careers. She spent time teaching and doing ministry work while releasing two books but never lost track of becoming a filmmaker.

“You know life happens right, but you reach a certain point when you have to follow your dreams,” says Redmond.

Following that dream has already paid off with “Willows.”

The film was selected for the International Christian Film Festival, and Redmond was also nominated for best lead actress in a short film.

Those two things still feel unreal to Redmond.

“This has been a dream of mine since I was a young girl, and so to be recognized by your peers of creatives, it’s awesome,” Redmond describes. “It’s a beautiful thing. It’s a beautiful feeling.”

Redmond says those feelings have taught her the most beautiful lesson of all.

“Part of the message, I think, is for me in this season is bet on yourself,” Redmond says. “Bet on yourself, believe in yourself so that you can really become yourself. That is what I’m holding onto right now.”

The International Christian Film Festival is in May in Orlando. That is when Redmond will find out if she won best lead actress.

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