Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Marissa Shoemaker works as a 1st AC on film and television productions in Oklahoma. Their previous credits include “Pretty Babies,” “Hot Year,” and “Tiger.” They have also worked as a 2nd AC on “Tulsa King,” “American Underdog,” and “The Lowdown” (pilot).
How did you get started in the film industry?
I began in the film industry in 2018. Actually, I had a friend that suggested that I check out the OK Film + Music Office website for job postings. I had no experience, but I got my first unpaid gig as a PA on there. Then, I kept taking PA work until I sweet talked my way into the camera department.
Did you have any formal education or training related to the film industry before starting?
I went to film school at the University of Central Arkansas. I studied writing and directing in school but ended up an AD on all the student film projects. I was a terrible AD, and I hated the job a lot. So, it makes sense I wasn’t in the AD department for long.
Did you have any formal education or training related to your specific department on-set?
Nope. I learned everything on the job.
What are some of your most recent successes (credits or accolades) related to your career in the industry?
As far as successes or accolades, my career is still pretty all over the place. My biggest accomplishment overall I think is when I moved from being a 2nd AC to 1st AC, and started getting jobs on union features. These jobs are very few and far between, so I am so grateful to be even a small part of it as a 1st AC.
What has your career in the state’s film industry taught you?
You have to take all criticism, constructive or not, in stride. You have to leave your ego at home. We are a tight-knit community, which can be a blessing and a curse. I have mostly had to learn these lessons the hard way, but I am learning and growing every day. I always strive to be the best leader and teammate that I can be, even when I fall short.
What is the highlight of your career thus far?
The job I am the most proud of is a short doc I 1st AC’d on called “Tiger,” directed and produced by Loren Waters. The film is about Dana Tiger, an indigenous artist with Parkinson’s disease who had to change her whole art style after her diagnosis. The job was tough, but so unbelievably rewarding, and it was an honor to listen to her tell her story, as well as be a part of it.
What is your favorite aspect of working in Oklahoma’s film and television industry?
The people. I’m sure this is a common answer, but the friendships I have made and the connections I have with the locals has by far been the best part of OK film.
What’s the best piece of advice you have for someone starting their career in Oklahoma’s film industry?
Ultimately, we are playing make-believe. Don’t let your day on set define your entire life. It is very important to have an identity outside of the film industry.
How does someone in your field/department best promote/market themselves to those hiring in your industry?
Tell every single person who will listen what you want to do–you’d be very surprised who can connect you with a job.
Are there any local film organizations, resources or events that have been beneficial to you in your career?
Not for me personally, but local Coffee with Crew and Women in Film meetups are a great place to start.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on set, and why?
Very sturdy and comfortable shoes.
Would your career be impacted without the state’s film incentive program? If so, how?
Honestly, I am not terribly well versed on the in’s an out’s of the incentive program.
Where do you see yourself – AND – Oklahoma’s film industry in the next five years?
The cool thing is that I already have my dream job. The moment I joined the camera department, I knew I wanted to be a focus puller. So, hopefully I am still pulling focus in 5 years. And hopefully Oklahoma Film has more work for everyone, and with better rates.
What are you working on now or next?
Hopefully whatever feature comes to Tulsa next.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
