Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Murphy
Hi Jake, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Starting off in school musicals and community shows, lead me to finding my passion for production. Storytelling is the most important thing we can do for one another and I was absolutely obsessed with every opportunity to do so. The COVID19 Pandemic initiated my transition from on stage to behind the camera. I took my first TV Production class in high school and was set!
Since being at SCAD I have grown as a producer, filmmaker, and artist in ways I could have never imagined. I have had the immense privilege to collaborate with the incredible directors, SCADpro with BMW and Paramount+, juror roles at film festivals across the world, interning with SAVFF and ATV Fest, and so much more.
My plan is to keep growing! I’ve been told I’m someone who could be planning the Met Gala at a local coffee shop and no one would know. I found that funny! My most recent endeavors include lead producing SCAD’s original short film in Lacoste, France, and programming for the upcoming 2024 SAVFF.
I’m looking forward to producing my senior capstone this coming year and seeing what doors open in the next few months. The only way to go is up!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In my industry, even at an academic level, there is always competition. With that being said, competition is the best thing for you! Outside of healthy growth in the classroom, I have faced obstacles on and off set.
“Creative differences” is a huge and valid proponent when working on a team. I have had my fair share of balancing personalties, managing opinions, and all the rest. My job as a producer is to make a film. It’s also to make an experience for all included. I want my cast and crew to make the greatest memories possible, and a film they’re most proud of.
Another challenge of mine is reminding myself that my creativity, effort, and accomplishments matter. Coming from a fairly traditional background, going to art school wasn’t easy! In my experience my home base has been nothing but supportive, however, it can get personally awkward in conversation with the biologists, mathematicians, psychologists, in my life. That’s an internal struggle of mine!
The largest personal obstacle for me is imposter syndrome. I often look around and feel the “who do I think I am” in a room of other incredible filmmakers. “Don’t embarrass yourself or look stupid” is a consistent in my head. I think we all feel that way in college though. It’s part of the fun that I’m sure I’ll be able to laugh at later!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an aspiring producer. One day I would love to find myself in an executive position working the creative 9-5PM. Something (I think) that sets me apart from other rising creatives is my excitement for routine. Most people I know are dreading the inevitable routine many of them will face. Couldn’t be me! I’m thrilled for consistency. The first thing I do every morning is make my bed. I will not leave my apartment until I accomplish the first task of the day.
I’m most proud of my contributions to SCAD’s private innovation studio, SCADpro. A first hand experience collaborating with industry brands and professionals in an internship/studio setting. I have had the incredible privilege to work with Acoustic Pictures, BMW, and Paramount+ to name a few. I have since become a SCADpro Ambassador working on creative community building for the department on and off the SCAD Savannah campus. I am currently in Lacoste engaging with a SCADpro research study on a SCADfash collaboration coming to Lacoste France Spring 2025. Such a rewarding and comprehensive opportunity.
I think what ultimately sets me apart from other filmmakers I know is my interest in including other industries in my experience. Several of the projects I have been apart of are under strict NDA, but include people, backgrounds, and demographics you wouldn’t normally find in a traditional film setting. I take pride in my versatility.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I was in high school during the COVID19 crisis. As a student and teenager, it was fabulous for the first two weeks! When the world stopped, I was told I couldn’t perform our school musical that very same night, I couldn’t get my license on my 17th birthday, and that I wouldn’t finish out my junior year of high school. My family became financially sensitive like others. I remember feeling a plethora of “what ifs” – just like the rest of the world!
During my time in isolation, I found myself taking many long walks and soaking up the forced “alone time”. I was given the chance to process certain things about myself that I was ready to speak on. I came out as gay and haven’t looked back. My world changed and I was finally comfortable in my clothes, room, and skin. Crazy what happens when you talk with yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://murphytjake.wixsite.com/site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakemurphyfilms/
