Jordan Ream
“To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, to draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life.” – The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Jordan Ream found his life’s purpose in an adventurous trip to another country. The Great Commission Bible Institute in Sebring, Florida took him as a third camera shooter on a trip to Israel. Standing in the Holy Land, he realized he wanted to be a catalyst for change via the film industry. He entered Liberty University’s Cinematic Arts program.
In a recent interview with us, Ream highlighted his experience in film school: “I learned a ton about AfterEffects, because my thesis was pretty much all green screen, which familiarized me with editing when I left and helped me focus my passion on using the camera any way I could. I made connections and left with resources. [Like] the famous ‘Office’ quote, ‘I wish I knew I was in the good ol’ times before I left them,’ I really miss the program and being with such like-minded people consistently. But I’m excited to see what God has in store now.”
Since graduation, Ream has been able to help tell stories while working with different ministries across the globe. Recently, he worked with Asha Bhavan Centre, an orphanage in India that helps children. He also has worked with an organization called Freeset that helps victims of sex trafficking and provides a community of change to empower women. These trips refuel his passion for TV and film jobs.
“Being in the [film] industry can cause a lot of anxiety because there is a lot of unknowns,” Ream said, “The one consistent thing about film is that it is inconsistent. It’s hard to create lasting relationships when you are always traveling, and it is hard to make a five-year plan when you don’t know what you will be doing next month. I have learned a lot about adaptability and finding your affirmation from the right source.”
In spite of its challenges, Ream feels blessed to be in an industry that is constantly moving, where he is always meeting new people, doing new projects, and going to new places. He recalled a moment when he was taking apart a camera in California and got “the call” to work a project in New York; he flew across the country the very next day. Although the travel was exhausting, Ream learned how fulfilling it was to be surprised by the opportunities God gave him.
“I could never see myself in a 9 to 5 job,” he admitted, “I wanted my career to be more than making money but about telling a story and making a difference.”
Like movie character Walter Mitty, Ream’s journey has taught him to embrace life’s adventures and learn from each experience. Before he left our interview, Ream offered these words of advice for film students: “Leave yourself open and let God provide. He will take you on these crazy adventures.”
He turned and jumped into a low-flying helicopter.
