Frame By Frame: Episode 3 - Jessie Maple

Jessie Maple, the first Black woman to join the International Photographers of Motion Picture & Television Union, talked about her career with Dr. Terri Francis in January of 2020 during her campus visit. Her 1989 film Twice as Nice, which screened at the IULMIA, follows twins Caren and Camilla Parker, both star players on a college women’s basketball team energized by the prospect of a first female pick in the upcoming “MBA” draft. The film was restored at the BFC/A with support from the National Film Preservation Foundation. In this podcast episode, Jessie Maple talks about how she broke through the racist and sexist barriers early in her career, and her life philosophy on taking deep breaths and big risks.

Topics Discussed:

0:00-5:02 Introductions

5:20-9:35 The Importance of Jessie joining the union as a black woman, knowing your craft.

9:50-12:30 Being independent, her past in the medical profession, having confidence in yourself.

12:30-16:45 The “Maple Philosophy”, doing what she can with what she has, being independent (cont.)

16:46-20:02 Legacy and final remarks

Frame By Frame is hosted by Dr. Terri Francis

Theme music provided by BRZ with additional music from André Seewood and Deija Lighon

Production by David Carter, Deonna Weatherly and Bria McCarty

Notes and episode descriptions were written by Yeeseon Chae with additional assistance from David Carter

The views, information, or opinions expressed on the Black Film Center & Archive audio series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Trustees of Indiana University ("IU") and/or its employees. IU is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of the content contained in this podcast.

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