Francoise Alexander

Francoise was born in France. She started to perform as an actress on stage at an early age. Francoise graduated in Paris with a degree in Art, Literature and Philosophy. After graduation, Francoise started to work for the leading Dubbing/ Voice-over Studios by lending her voice to many American and European Feature films and TV Series. In addition to acting, Francoise began to write screenplays with lead female characters. While working as an actress, Francoise noticed that women were often performing the same roles: a mother, the girl next door, a friend, a girlfriend, a prostitute. Rarely, women were depicted as cops, doctors, attorneys, firefighters, detectives, or heroes in films. Francoise decided to write screenplays with these roles for actresses to perform. Writing stories with strong and non-conventional female roles became a passion. Francoise doesn't have a particular genre. She writes dramas, comedies, period pieces and more. For her, the genre is just a different way to tell a necessary story. Francoise is driven by an exploration of human nature. She is fascinated by what makes us good, bad, and all the multitudes in between that create the compelling characters in her screenplays. Francoise's stories reflect her values, her beliefs, and the need to show how far we as human beings can go. In 1998, Francoise moved to Los Angeles to pursue her entertainment career. There she started to learn production by working in various commercials, industrials, political spots, TV series and documentaries. Shortly thereafter, Francoise was hired to write a CGI animation feature film entitled "Bremen" then an episode of Sonic Boom, "Lair on Lockdown". Francoise also worked as a Stand-In on many TV shows and Feature films. It was while working on CSI: NY, Francoise learned to direct. Thanks to the show, CBS Radford studio and the generosity of the CSI: NY crew, she was able to write and direct three short films: Bon Voyage, Ariel and To the Altar. Directing became her new passion. When Francoise writes a screenplay, she already sees the film playing minute-by-minute in her mind. Therefore, directing was the next logical step. For Francoise, there are different layers to tell a story visually. First, you tell it with the actors. Not only can they tell you the story the way it was written - but they also add to it. The right word or the right expression speaks volumes. Just as important is the camera's own language. Each camera move adds to the crafting of the story. Sometimes the camera can intervene as "another actor" and show another perspective. Lighting sets the mood and further enhances the story just as the music which transports the viewer where they need to go. Finally, good editing is essential. This is when "the puzzle" of the film is put together. When you have "good pieces" everything goes smoothly. This is why Francoise always works hard on her shot list. Directing is simple and complex at the same time. You must stay true to the creative genesis of the project while minding the practical limits such as time frame and a budget. Directing is an exciting balance of choosing your battles and priorities while maintaining the integrity of your creative vision. Francoise resides in Los Angeles and pursues her filmmaking career.