Celebrating Phenomenal Women in March

Interview by Angela Anderson for The Heat Seekers

North Carolina native Nachela Knox is a woman of many skills and talents. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, she has made tremendous strides from award-winning actress to director, writer, cinematographer, and producer.

From an early age, Nachela could be found at the movies or the theater, absorbing knowledge and skills to turn her dreams into reality. She has since turned her passion into a successful career of collaborations and the release of numerous short films and founder of her production company. “GoGetHer Productions”.

Nachela enjoys what she does. Her passion and appreciation for her profession are often showcased throughout her work on screen and behind the camera.

Angela Anderson: Tell us about yourself.

Nachela Knox: I am originally from Charlotte, NC, specifically Cornelius. I graduated from UNCG (The University of North Carolina at Greensboro) with a degree in film in 2019. Since then, I’ve led a film division, started my own production company, wrote, directed, and produced my first feature film, “Coma Couch,” and worked with a number of people on all scales.

AA: What prompted you to get into the acting field?

NK: Acting has always fascinated me since I was a little girl. I used to love the Raven-Symone’ show, and seeing someone who looked like me was inspiring, so I strived to do the same thing. I’ve always participated in theatre, church, and school plays. I used to make up reenactments of commercials and any acting opportunity I could find.

AA: When did acting become a priority for you?

NK: Acting was always a priority for me until I discovered directing. If you ask any of my close friends and family, they will confirm that I have always wanted to be an actress. Honestly, I think it surprises a lot of people that I’ve transitioned to directing because my passion for acting was so strong. Acting will always be my first love, but directing is my true passion.

AA: What was your most memorable acting experience?

NK: My most memorable acting experience would have to be my first film. I was in college and cast to play the main character in a short film called “Getaway”. This was my first experience acting on screen, and it was so fun for me. I then knew that I wanted to do film instead of theatre. It was just more “real” for me. It was also an introduction to many people I would continue working with.

AA: What influenced you the most? Was it a person in the field?

NK: Like I mentioned, watching Raven-Symone’ definitely inspired me to get into acting, but I will never forget the first time I played a lead role in a play. I was in 8th grade, and my school was doing The Jungle Book. I was cast to play Baloo, one of the main characters with a lot of lines. That was when I knew I had to keep acting. That feeling of being on stage is indescribable.

AA: Tell us how you became a director and what made you start your own production company.

NK: In college, many people mentioned I would be a good director. I will be honest; I ran from it for a while. However, my friend De’ron asked me to shoot and direct his senior project, “Tainted”. I said yes. This was my first time ever shooting and directing a project by myself. Let’s just say it was well received, and the director in me was birthed.

What made me start my own production company? Great question; after working under someone, I realized the only way I would ever have full creative control is if I owned it. I spent years chasing work when in reality, I could and did create my own work. I had to realize I could not look to anyone but God for my success and to be in total control of that, I needed my own company. With hard work, determination, and perseverance, “GoGetHer Productions” was born.

THS: Describe a typical day on a set for you.

NK: A day on set for me has to start with Starbucks and, of course, my red lipstick. I like to dress in something that makes me feel confident; because when I feel good, I do my best work. Once I arrive, I look at the call sheet and the shooting schedule to see what’s on the agenda. I’m then meeting with my Assistant Director with instructions and meeting with the Director of photography to go over the first setup. We run a rehearsal, and then we start shooting for the day.

AA: What do you find most difficult about the industry?

NK: The most difficult part, to me, about this industry is the wait. What I mean by that is whether you are an actor, director, writer, or producer, you will always be waiting on something, whether that’s for someone to review your script or to find out if you were cast in a project. Or even waiting to see who will pick up your completed project. The term “Hurry up to wait” is so true in the film industry. You eventually get used to it, but it can be difficult at first, especially if you’re passionate about it.

AA: What successful tips would you tell the next inspiring actor/ director?

NK: I have five successful tips that I would share with inspiring actors and directors.

1. Keep God first.

2. Always be willing to adapt.

3. Connections are the most important thing.

4. Make yourself memorable.

5. Never give up.

AA: Do you have any favorite actors you would like to work with?

NK: I would love to work with Antonia Gentry, Tessa Thompson, John David Washington, and Brian Tyree Henry, just to name a few. However, I love working with upcoming individuals such as John Blaq and my entire “Coma Couch” cast. I would like to discover new rising stars as well.

AA: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share?

NK: My first feature, “Coma Couch,” is complete and is set to release this year. Follow my page to find out the release date when it’s announced. I am also working on my second feature, “Mary”, which I plan to start production in 2023. I also have several other projects I’m working on, ranging from features to episodic series.

AA: Stay connected with Nachela Knox via her website and social media platforms.

NK: Website - www.gogetherproductions.com

Facebook and Instagram - @NachelaKnox

Facebook and Instagram - @GoGetHer Productions

Email - gogetherproductions@gmail.com