One of the great joys of hosting The UPside is introducing audiences to creators whose work truly lights up the world.
In a recent conversation, I sat down with filmmaker Alexandra, a writer, actress, and producer who has created six films audiences love—stories designed especially for young girls and families who want entertainment that uplifts rather than degrades.
Her journey is a reminder that meaningful storytelling doesn’t always begin with big budgets or studio backing. Sometimes it begins with courage, creativity, and a willingness to simply start.
Learning the Craft theHard Way
Alexandra’s path into filmmaking began early. She grew up acting in her father’s church and eventually moved from Massachusetts to LosAngeles at nineteen, determined to pursue a career in film.
After years of struggling to break into the industry as an actress, she had a breakthrough realization:
Instead of waiting for someone else to choose her, she would create her own opportunities.
Her first feature film was an independent horror project—a practical choice for a new filmmaker because the genre can succeed with smaller budgets. Producing that first movie taught her the fundamentals of film making from the ground up and eventually led to a distribution deal.
But her story was only just beginning.
A Bold Pivot Toward Faith-Based Stories
Encouraged to explore faith-based films, Alexandra began developing stories rooted in hope and spiritual themes. But she noticed something missing in the marketplace.
Very few films were being made for young Christian girls.
So she decided to change that.
Working with her sister, she began creating movies that combine fun storytelling with biblical principles—stories that explore issues like bullying, identity, friendship, and faith in ways that resonate with younger audiences.
Her film Switched, for example, tells the story of two high school girls—a bully and the girl she bullies—who mysteriously wake up in each other’s bodies.What follows is both funny and deeply meaningful as the characters learn empathy, compassion, and the importance of loving others.
Why These Stories Matter Right Now
We are living in a fascinating cultural moment.
Many observers are noting that Gen Z young men are increasingly returning to church, seeking truth, stability, and biblical teaching.
Young women, however, often face a different cultural landscape—one saturated with social media pressure, identity confusion, and entertainment that frequently portrays them in degrading or hyper-sexualized ways.
That’s why films like Alexandra’s matter.
They offer an alternative narrative—stories that affirm dignity, encourage faith, and provide wholesome entertainment that parents can feel good about sharing with their daughters.
Rather than the raunchy portrayals often produced in mainstream Hollywood, these films create a space where young women can see themselves through a healthier lens.
Creating Without Waiting
Another powerful part of Alexandra’s story is her entrepreneurial spirit.
At one point, when making one of her early faith-based films, she faced a difficult choice: keep her Los Angeles apartment—or make the movie.
She chose the movie.
She placed everything she owned in storage, lived out of a suitcase for a year, and completed the film. The result went on to become one of the top-selling titles for its distributor and reached audiences around the world.
Her message to aspiring filmmakers is simple: don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start with what you have and keep going.
Stories That Light UP the World
At The UPside, we believe in sharing conversations that inspire creativity, faith, and courage.
Alexandra’s story is a beautiful example of what can happen when someone combines artistic talent with a commitment to serve the next generation.
Through entertaining films rooted in faith, she is helping young audiences discover empathy, purpose, and hope—one story at a time.
And in a world that often sends confusing messages to young women, that kind of storytelling may be more important than ever.
Click here to view the episode: https://youtu.be/YpxKZYpRw_g?si=wPZvsUU8FqbLcty1
You can also view on Rumble, and listen on Spotify and Apple.
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