Etta Coleman

I am a writer and director seeking to build meaningful connections within the Portland film community. I grew up in Portland and returned after graduating last spring from Tulane University in New Orleans, where I studied film and humanities. Living and creating in New Orleans allowed me to fully come into myself as an artist and deepened my belief that film has the power to remind us of our shared humanity.

As a biracial woman entering the film industry, I am committed to storytelling that centers and empowers marginalized voices and fosters and revolutionary change. I am particularly drawn to film’s ability to subvert reality. I am fascinated by the surreal, the dreamlike, and narratives that stretch the boundaries of imagination.

For my senior thesis, I wrote, developed, and directed a deeply personal short film, 'Angel of St. Charles'. The film follows a teenage girl grappling with the loss of her uncle; through dreams and memory, she attempts to reach him, ultimately discovering that the St. Charles streetcar serves as a bridge between the worlds of the living and the dead.

Throughout my studies, I gained hands-on experience working on dozens of student productions in roles including assistant director, gaffer, and production assistant. I also interned with the Department of Motion Pictures, a New Orleans–based production company known for producing Beasts of the Southern Wild and The White House Effect. I am eager for opportunities to be on set and continue learning across all facets of production.