Interview with Anthony Anderson

Filmmaker Anthony Anderson lived in Anacostia in southeast Washington, D.C. until he entered high school when he moved to Montgomery County, Maryland. Anderson started creating and writing stories at a young age, and involved himself in the performing arts, including stage plays in high school. After several unsuccessful attempts to secure a role on 'The Wire,' Anderson was inspired by Spike Lee interview in which Lee stated you have to create your chance. Anderson explains this inspiration lead him to revisit his previously written scripts and start making films. He talks about his first film 'The Ties that Binds,' and his web series 'Anacostia.' Anderson explains his inspiration comes from people in Washington, D.C. and what success means to him. He talks about his creative process, where his ideas come from, trusting people he works with, and his biggest struggles creating the web series. Anderson provides advice to aspiring Anacostians.

Interview. Dated 20110210.