Arts

Lynette Jones: Active Duty Filmmaker of "Letting Go"

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Tuesday, 28 January 2025

Written by Amber Little

Fayetteville, like many cities and towns across the country, is home to a military installation, its soldiers, and families.
Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) is the largest military post based on population and size. Among the thousands of individuals stationed here, some bring their military know-how, passions, talents and creativity.
One of those individuals is Lt. Col. Lynette Jones, filmmaker. A Los Angeles native, Jones started her military journey in the ’90s, touring Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. In 2014, Jones decided to take her filmmaking seriously and started creating projects.
Her latest film, Letting Go, will be making its grand premier right here in Fayetteville on Saturday, March 1 at Seabrook Auditorium on the campus of Fayetteville State University.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with red carpet photos, a sparkling cider toast and light hors d’oeuvres. The attire is formal, and guests are encouraged to dress to impress for the red carpet walk. Filmmaking has played a big part in Jones’ life.
“I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, it’s a way to connect with others and explore the richness of life. I’m fascinated by the human condition, by the emotions, struggles, and triumphs that make us who we are. Through film, I can delve into those experiences, shine a light on them, and share narratives that resonate on a deep, personal level. It’s an art form that allows me to express myself while also creating something meaningful for others," she said.
Jones has been able to balance life as an active-duty officer and filmmaker.
"Balancing active duty and creating a short film has been an exciting journey. It’s taught me how to be very intentional with my time. While being in the military is demanding, I don’t work 24 hours a day, and I usually have weekends off.
"That downtime has become my creative window, allowing me to focus on planning and building my film projects. It’s been rewarding to see how much I can accomplish by making the most of those moments, and it’s a reminder that pursuing your passion is always possible, no matter what the circumstances,” she said.
Letting Go has been a passion project and the accumulation of years for Jones.
“My latest project, Letting Go, is a deeply personal love story that explores the beauty of true love in the midst of pain. It’s a story about connection, resilience, and the difficult choices we sometimes face when we care deeply for someone else.
"The inspiration came from reflecting on how love can flourish even in the hardest moments of life, and I wanted to create something that could resonate with people on a heartfelt level.
"The film was shot over the course of three intense days, which required a lot of careful planning and precise execution to make the most of our time. Having a talented and dedicated team was absolutely key to our success, they brought incredible energy and creativity to the set,” Jones said.
She was hands-on with every part of the filmmaking process, down to casting.
“As for the actors, I was very deliberate in my selection process. I wanted individuals who could bring authenticity and depth to the characters. It wasn’t just about talent but also their ability to connect with the story and embody its emotional core. Seeing everything together was truly rewarding."
Jones isn’t letting her foot off the pedal anytime soon. She recently submitted her film to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for consideration.
Jones takes great pride in this, saying, “Submitting my work to the Academy was both thrilling and humbling.
"It was a long shot, but I genuinely felt my film was good enough to be in the running. While it wasn’t selected, I see it as just one step in a much larger journey. There are so many talented filmmakers out there, and being part of that community is inspiring. I believe in aiming high, and this experience has only fueled my determination to keep growing and creating. Every step, whether big or small, brings me closer to my goals."
Her next project is already in the works.
“My next project is about a group of friends who are blues singers. The movie delves into how good people can get caught up in the world of drugs. It’s a story about life’s challenges and how circumstances often push us to take a deeper look at ourselves.
"Ultimately, it’s a spiritual journey that navigates through pain, bad decisions, and the path to transformation. I’m really excited about this project because it’s raw, and emotional, and carries a message of hope and redemption. It’s still in the early stages, but I can’t wait to bring this story to life,” she said.
Jones is excited about what the future has for her as a filmmaker and appreciates those who have supported her along the way.
“I would like to thank Irene Mink, my second mom. She has been on this journey with me since the beginning and I thank God for her. I would also like to thank my church family from Country Club Christ of Christ. They have been supportive since I came to Fayetteville in 2017.Thank you.”
For tickets to the event, visit jonesygirlproductions.com.

(Image courtesy of Lynette Jones)