Jihane Mrad Balaa

From the Camera department to director’s chair

What does it take to transition from behind the camera to the director's chair?

In this inspiring conversation, Jihane Mrad Balaa shares her remarkable 20-year journey from Lebanese immigrant to working on major shows like American Horror Story, 9-1-1, and Bumblebee before finally making the leap to directing her own feature film.

Jihane opens up about why being "normal and pleasant" is her secret to success in Hollywood, how she found her feature film script on InkTip, the harsh realities of producing your first independent film, and how diversity hiring became her "foot in the door.”

This conversation is packed with honest, tactical advice for anyone looking to transition between departments or produce their first project. Whether you're a camera operator dreaming of directing, a PA trying to move up, or a filmmaker seeking financing, Jihane's story proves that with persistence, positivity, and the right partnerships, anything is possible.

Tune in!

xx cg

“I thought [producing] was a one-man job… I soon realized how challenging it is.”

- Jihane Mrad Balaa

Episode Transcript