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The last time we interviewed Anne-Marie Johnson, the calendar said it was December 2013, Google Glass and wearable tech were in the midst of significant media attention, and the Fight for $15 movement was in full-swing across the U.S.  It's now January 2025, and we’re happy to welcome back Anne-Marie for a quick Q&A about her latest film, "The Addiction of Hope."  This independent feature film delves into themes of aging, health, and the choices that define our lives. The story follows Anne-Marie's character role, Jo Stock, an aging African American actress at a crossroads -- forced to confront the reality of her fading career and the importance of family when her sister, Lynnie, falls ill.  Currently navigating the festival circuit, Anne-Marie is hoping to share this film with a wider audience in theaters and on-screen sooner than Althea can break up the next schoolyard scuffle. For now, join us as Anne-Marie shares her insights into this compelling film and much more!  

What drew you to the role of Jo Stock, and how did you connect with her journey of facing ageism and life-changing decisions?

Anne-Marie Johnson:  The screenplay for The Addiction Of Hope was written by my husband, Martin Gottlieb. I’ve always loved his writing and believe this is one of his best screenplays. Although the screenplay is completely original and from Marty’s interest in "thinking-people" storylines, he was quite aware of the issues of ageism facing all folks of a particular age. Especially in the entertainment industry. And since we have been together since 1986, he’s witnessed the trials and tribulations I’ve dealt with as a careered actor since 1983. For me, being able to play the title role is a win-win. And we’ve partnered on projects in the past and work so well together, we’d be fools not to take on this issue. 

Ageism appears to be a central theme in the film. What message do you hope "The Addiction of Hope" conveys about the challenges and opportunities for older women in Hollywood and beyond?

We’ve held a few screenings in Los Angeles and screened at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. The reaction to the film has been fantastic. People from all walks of life have shared their “Jo Stock” moments with us and we have been so proud to know that our film speaks to anyone who had faced or is facing the crossroads of their lives: regardless of their age or station in life. It’s truly a universal message: hope can be fleeting. But it also can be a life saver.  I like to think of our film as faith adjacent. Hope and Faith can be considered synonymous. And as a woman of faith, I find that extremely comforting.

What do you hope audiences take away from Jo’s journey, especially those who may also feel they’re standing at a crossroads in their own lives?

As I mentioned earlier: keeping the faith, trying to stay positive, no matter the challenges, is always the best route to take. Life is so hard. And life is also a gift. I choose positivity. Jo’s journey is one of struggling through, hoping to find true meaning. Hoping to feel complete and loved. Hoping to find relevance and purpose. That’s what I hope our audience takes away from the film.

Those are certainly themes that should feel deeply resonant to anyone.  Is there a release date or specific platform where audiences can look forward to seeing The Addiction of Hope?

We are in the festival circuit phase now, so it’s just one of the first steps film makers take in order to have their films seen by purchasers. Ultimately, we hope to be purchased and screened on the big and small screens. It can take up to 2 years to have a film bought after it’s completed. We have a long road ahead of us, but I HOPE we will have the opportunity to share our film with a larger audience.

Special thanks to Anne-Marie for keeping us in the loop with her latest film. We’re excited to see where this journey takes her and hope to experience The Addiction of Hope on the big screen soon.  

For those who will be in the Los Angeles area this weekend, there is a special fundraising screening of The Addiction of Hope on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the Fine Arts Theatre, 8556 Wilshire Blvd, in Beverly Hills.  Doors open at 1:30pm and the screening begins at 2pm, followed by a Q&A with special guests.  Tickets are $12 and a portion of the proceeds will go to assisting victims of the LA County wildfires.  

For ticket payment options and additional info on this special screening and film, visit the TheAddictionOfHopeFilm.com.  You can also follow along on Instagram: @theaddictionofhope 

Watch The Addiction of Hope trailer Here.

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