Today we’d like to introduce you to Jack Walterman.
Hi Jack, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2020, after graduating with a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film and Television Production, from the world-renowned University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, I returned to my home state Minnesota. With the uncertainty of the pandemic, I joined the medical field in hopes of helping my hometown community as a pharmacy technician–administering daily COVID-19 tests, filling prescriptions, and preparing vaccinations. To stay artistically sharp, I created and directed an eight-episode horror-comedy web series (the finale will be going into production later this year) with friends and family.
In 2023, I began my freelancing journey by launching my production company Walterman Productions, LLC. Right at the top of the year, my first project was as a documentarian following a USO-Inspired musical duo, as they embarked on a 50-states tour, in four months (the feature length film will be released Veterans Day 2025). Over the years, I have been contracted to work with Netflix, Hulu, ABC, HISTORY, Discovery+, Target, TNT Sports, and more.
In 2024, I wrote, directed, and produced an award-winning proof of concept short film titled “Collette”, which is currently in the festival circuit, playing across the country and internationally. This family drama ghost story is currently being developed into my feature directorial debut. To learn more, visit: https://www.jackwalterman.com/collette
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
From the pandemic, to leaving Los Angeles, to the writers and actors strikes, the last few years have been understandably challenging. Despite the uncertainty of the industry, I have continued to work on my craft. My latest challenge is developing and financing my debut narrative feature film. I look forward to completing this milestone in my filmmaking career with grit, optimism, and the indispensable support of my local Minnesotan filmmaking community and audiences.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a filmmaker that focuses on the horror genre. In my opinion, I am not a scary person – in fact I can be quite the “scaredy cat” – which has led me to take interest in exploring what audiences, including myself, find frightening through the safety of stories. Personally, I think the horror genre can be an exciting break from reality. One where we are both entertained and educated by the different ways characters cope with terrifying obstacles. Sometimes I like to sneak comedy into my stories to offset the scares. Think of a friendly amusement park with one large, intimidating, roller coaster. Those are the stories I love to tell. Currently, I am developing a feature screenplay version of my successful short film “Collette” and looking to finance the project.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Despite working with stories meant to scare and frighten audiences, I am a very compassionate and approachable person. As an “actor’s director”, with roots as a Teaching Artist at the prestigious Guthrie Theater, and filmmaker I work very hard to establish an environment where everyone on my team can do their best work. I am proud I can take what I have learned, from one of the top film schools in the world, back to my home state of Minnesota–as I continue to work towards completing my debut feature film.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jackwalterman.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackwaltermanpro/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackwaltermanpro/?ref=bookmarks
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/authwall?trk=gf&trkInfo=AQEsVs9h3yCyPAAAAZY6YUtog-WudhpQ9uHAg7pFuJkPlcF-4hdlnZnLZ4wam4C9PzKOPf521qwfdMHDnsn9VSvDZHUkCdWN5I5KeB4hhEhb8vlDIEqgSHXk5MWdFtfgSdad1T0=&original_referer=https://www.jackwalterman.com/&sessionRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fjack-walterman
- Youtube: https://vimeo.com/928961563
- Other: https://vimeo.com/843497020
