Movies

Meg Weidner has never been to film school, but she didn't let that stop her from creating a movie.

Her short film You're Too — which she wrote, directed and starred in — was shown last week at the Women's International Film Festival in Miami.

"It was my first attempt at screenwriting and directing," Weidner said. "I enjoyed the learning process."

The 30-year-old Anniston resident learned her directorial skills while taking acting classes in New York. She's acted in an off-off Broadway production, toured with a children's theater group out of Jackson, Miss., been featured in local and regional commercials and has acted in a couple of independent films. Weidner recently took a few minutes to give her thoughts on her film and the industry in general.

What got you into acting?

It's something I've desired since I was 12 and watched the Oscars for the first time.

Tell me about the festival you attended.

The Women's International Film Festival honors women who have written screenplays, directed screenplays or both. Only 7 percent of the industry is made of women, so the festival honors the women who take that chance and inspire others.

How did You're Too go over?

Very well. Particularly the dentist scene. The audience laughed more at that scene. It was a really supportive community and I feel more inspired for future projects.

How much of You're Too is based on your life?

The first two scenes with the dentist and allergist were based on real experiences. I took the element of truth and added to it. Writing it put it into perspective that even though I'd been told these things (criticism from the dentist and allergist) I could laugh at it.

How do you feel about the art community in Calhoun County?

For the size of our community it's nice. I'd like to see it developed. I hope the studio incentive package is passed. I think it's be a great thing for our community and state. I miss the independent movies at Zannie. Maybe someday someone will bring that back.

Is there going to be a local viewing of You're Too?

I'm going to make it a fundraiser. One of the actor's husband has been diagnosed with ALS, and with her blessing, I'll make it a fundraiser. I'm looking into a venue and all the things that go with that.

What's your favorite movie?

Little Miss Sunshine. It's one of the most touching movies. I've watched it maybe eight times.

Who's your favorite actor?

Joaquin Phoenix. He's incredibly intense and can have the widest range of emotion in his eyes.

What's next for you?

I'm exploring another short film — I don't want to say too much so no one will steal my idea. It focuses on a married couple. It's not based on real-life experience.

How did you find the actors?

All cast members are friends except Griffin Hood, who played Shane. A friend recommended him. That's the wonderful thing about an art community. If you don't know somebody, you know somebody that can help you.