Ep 11. Here with Josh and Sara: Donna Deitch

Here with Josh and Sara is a talk show hosted by Josh Feldman and Sara Amini, where they interview different guests who make an impact on society. In season 1, episode 11, titled "Here with Josh and Sara: Donna Deitch", the hosts welcome one of the most iconic directors in the film industry, Donna Deitch.

Donna Deitch is a film and television director, best known for her work in the 1985 film Desert Hearts, which was one of the first lesbian love stories to be released in cinema. Josh and Sara begin the episode by discussing how important Desert Hearts was for the LGBTQ+ community, and how it paved the way for more representation in the media.

As Donna joins the conversation, she shares her experiences creating the movie and the challenges she faced during its production. She talks about how the film was different from other LGBTQ+ movies of its time because it showed the love story between two women in a positive and uplifting light, rather than making it a tragedy.

The hosts ask Donna about her journey as a filmmaker and how she got her start in the industry. Donna explains that she started by making documentaries and worked her way up to directing feature films. She also mentions that being a female director was challenging in the male-dominated industry, but she persevered.

Josh and Sara delve deeper into Donna's career, discussing some of her other notable works, including her 2015 documentary The Cockettes. Donna gives insights into her creative process and how she approaches filmmaking as an art form.

The episode also touches on the importance of diversity and representation in the media. Donna talks about how crucial it is for underrepresented communities to see themselves reflected in films and television shows. She shares her views on the current state of the industry and how it has evolved since she first started.

Towards the end of the show, the hosts ask Donna what advice she would give to aspiring filmmakers. Donna emphasizes the importance of having a strong vision and sticking to that vision throughout the filmmaking process. She also encourages young filmmakers to never give up on their dreams and to keep fighting for their voices to be heard.

Overall, Here with Josh and Sara: Donna Deitch is an insightful and thought-provoking episode that sheds light on the life and career of one of the most influential filmmakers of our time. Donna's wisdom and expertise provide valuable lessons for anyone pursuing a career in the film industry or seeking representation in the media.