TJ – Crafting Stories with Heart and Authenticity

Hailey Lachman
Feb 26
3 min read

Updated: Mar 27

In the ever-evolving world of independent filmmaking, authenticity and passion set filmmakers apart. Meet TJ Jones, an Atlanta-based filmmaker and creative whose journey from watching VHS classics to working on major productions like Black Panther 2 showcases an inspiring trajectory in the industry.

From VHS Classics to Film School: The Beginnings of a Filmmaker

Growing up without cable, TJ developed a deep appreciation for storytelling through her mother’s collection of VHS and DVD movies. This early exposure to classic films shaped her understanding of narrative and sparked her desire to create stories of her own. Her passion led her to high school theater and camera work, ultimately culminating in a degree in Film & Video Production. To fund her projects, TJ took on videography work, turning her passion into both a craft and a livelihood.

Creative Influences: The Directors Who Shaped TJ’s Vision

Cinematic storytelling takes inspiration from great predecessors, and for TJ, visionaries like Jordan Peele, David Fincher, M. Night Shyamalan, and Spike Lee have played a crucial role in shaping her approach. Their unique styles and genre-defying narratives resonate deeply with her desire to tell stories that feel both personal and universal.

The Story Behind Rick & Teena

TJ’s latest short film, Rick & Teena, is a romance centered around the electric chemistry of a first date between an intense Scorpio and an independent filmmaker. The inspiration for the film comes from TJ's own experience of falling in love for the first time, bringing an intimate and deeply personal touch to the narrative.

The Most Bizarre On-Set Moment: Crafting the Perfect Prop

Working in props for union productions often leads to unusual requests, but one of the strangest involved fabricating realistic poop for Them Season 2 on Amazon Prime. The challenge was making it look as believable as possible. It’s just one of many surreal moments that come with working in the film industry.

The Realities of Indie Filmmaking: Managing Expectations

Every filmmaker dreams big, but the constraints of indie filmmaking require flexibility. For TJ, one of the biggest challenges has been managing expectations when budget limitations force creative pivots. While the vision might shift, the heart of the story remains intact, making every project a valuable learning experience.

A Career Milestone: Working on Black Panther 2

One of TJ’s proudest moments was landing her first major union job on Black Panther 2. The experience was both surreal and affirming, marking a significant turning point in her career. It served as a catalyst, reinforcing her belief that her potential in the industry is limitless.

Collaboration Over Competition: Navigating the Film Industry

TJ believes in the power of community over competition.

“Comparing yourself and seeing other filmmakers as competitors can set you back. Look for ways to collaborate instead,” she shares.

She emphasizes that the beauty of filmmaking lies in its diversity—each creator brings something unique to the table.

The Message Behind the Work

At the heart of TJ’s storytelling is the desire for audiences to relate to characters, even when they seem vastly different from themselves. “Being able to see others as human, no matter their background, is important,” she explains, underscoring the universal power of film.

Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

For those just starting out, TJ offers simple but powerful advice:

"Try everything. Yes, you might fail, but failure is character growth. The more you practice, the more you grow."

She reminds aspiring filmmakers that perfection is not the goal—embracing imperfections is what makes storytelling compelling.

Looking Ahead: A Filmmaker in Constant Evolution

Filmmaking is an ever-evolving art, and TJ remains committed to honing her craft, pushing boundaries, and telling stories that resonate. With her strong sense of authenticity, collaborative spirit, and unwavering passion, she is undoubtedly a creative to watch in the indie film space.