Ep #87 : Crafting Narratives: Insights from Filmmaker Kristina Thomas
Summary of the episode
This episode of noseyAF dives into the vibrant and multifaceted world of filmmaking through an engaging conversation with Kristina Thomas, a writer and director whose path in the industry is marked by resilience, creativity, and remarkable achievements. From her beginnings in East Oakland to her work in television and independent cinema, Kristina shares her journey with authenticity and humor.
We explore her trajectory from aspiring youth attorney to filmmaker, how her legal background shaped her narrative voice, and the role of mentorship and community in sustaining an artistic career. Kristina opens up about navigating the challenges of the industry—pandemic disruptions, the writers' strike, and the evolving digital landscape—while continuing to inspire and uplift emerging voices.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, storyteller, or creative of any kind, this episode offers insight, motivation, and an invitation to embrace your own unique story.
• 00:07 - Introduction to Kristina Thomas
• 01:24 - Exploring the Journey of Filmmaking
• 09:29 - The Importance of Kindness on Set
• 14:27 - Growing Up in East Oakland
• 23:58 - The Journey to Filmmaking
• 28:25 - The Influence of Akira Kurosawa on Filmmaking
• 32:44 - Reflections on Mentorship and Loss
• 40:00 - The Evolution of Indie Filmmaking
• 43:21 - The Journey of a Filmmaker
• 51:06 - Transitioning Careers in the Arts
• 56:09 - The Importance of Storytelling in the Digital Age
You’re gonna love Kristina Thomas—she’s a filmmaker, writer, and educator who blends creativity, intellect, and vision to push the boundaries of storytelling.
Kristina Thomas was born in East Oakland, California, and has emerged as a rising talent in film and television. She first made her mark in the documentary world by winning a $50,000 contest to direct a compelling TV pilot in New Orleans for MTV/Endemol. From there, she transitioned into scripted storytelling, working as a script coordinator on acclaimed series including Greenleaf, Lovecraft Country, and The Haunting of Bly Manor (S2).
Her feature script Worth It has gained recognition as a semi-finalist in competitions such as Women in Film/The Black List and BET's Project Cre8 Feature. She is actively developing the project while also teaching as an Adjunct Professor of Screenwriting at DePaul University.
Kristina’s short-form work has also made a strong impact. Her comedy short House of Balls earned lead actress Mariah Robinson Best Actress at the Alt Film Festival, along with Best Actor recognition, and was named a semi-finalist in BET’s Project Cre8: TV and the Hollyshorts Festival. The concept short for Worth It screened at festivals including the Toronto Black Film Festival (Canadian Screen Award–qualifying) and earned an honorable mention at Lady Filmmakers Festival. Most recently, her Film Independent
