It's A Hollywood Life
The story of longtime film critic Susan Granger, who has been in and around the movie industry for more than 80 years. The interviewees in “It’s A Hollywood Life!” include Juvenile Oscar winner Margaret O’Brien, actors Keir Dullea and Mia Dillon, author and film historian David C. Tucker, critic Joe Meyers, and Gary Cooper’s daughter, artist Maria Cooper Janis.
About the Director
Director Laurie Valentina Gomez Acosta was awarded Yale’s Howard R. Lamar Prize in Film in 2022 and received a Special Jury Prize at the 2022 Yale in Hollywood Fest.
Director Maya Weldon-Lagrimas co-created the film that won Best Documentary at the 2023 Yale Student Film Festival.
Their journey thus far has led them to explore various avenues, from contributing to a successful local political campaign to producing an award-winning short film. The recognition garnered by their short film, Influence, celebrated at Yale for its exemplary filmmaking, solidified Valentina’s dedication to the art of visual storytelling.
Their fascination with American mass media has driven them to delve into numerous courses, enhancing their understanding of its influence on politics and society. This unique blend of technical expertise and insightful analysis propels Valentina towards their goal of becoming a documentary filmmaker. Their experiences have taught them that every story deserves to be heard, and they are excited to leverage their skills to shed light on the captivating narratives that shape our world.
