Martin A. Gottlieb on Finding ‘The Addiction of Hope’

Following the recent acquisition of The Addiction of Hope by Random Media, the award-winning ensemble behind this poignant new indie drama reflects on the journey of bringing the film to life. The story, which follows Jo Stock, an aging actress forced to confront her identity, family ties, and the cost of fame, is a moving exploration of courage, reinvention, and emotional truth.

We caught up with writer-director Martin A. Gottlieb to discuss the creative process, the film’s themes, and the realities of independent filmmaking today.

What first inspired you to write The Addiction of Hope?

I felt like I was being pushed out of my career because I was a certain age. Just not that much work anymore. My wife and so many peers felt the same. And you start obsessing, I do anyway, about aging. So, I started writing about that. About how the world wants to tell you you’re done as opposed to you saying when you’re ready to hang it up. And then I had a family member go through some health things and that gave me the contrast I needed to clearly see what was important in my life. I wanted to explore those feelings.

The film’s title is striking, what does “addiction” represent in this context?

Hope can be a wonderful thing. It can drive you, push you forward. It’s easy to ignore the truth when you have hope, because false hope can trap you, hold you back. You become addicted to it. We have to be careful we’re being honest with ourselves.

Jo Stock’s journey feels deeply personal. Was the character inspired by real experiences or people you’ve known?

As an actor, Jo’s story is so relatable. The hope every audition might be life changing. The actor’s life was my life, my wife’s life, my friends’ lives — all those stories informed this one.

How did you balance themes of fame, family, and aging without leaning into cliché?

I feel very fortunate to have the cast we assembled because good actors are honest actors and I don’t think there’s a false note from anyone in the film. So, I guess to avoid cliché you get good actors!

What message or feeling do you hope audiences walk away with after watching this film?

I’d be thrilled if people realize they can choose a different road if they’re not happy in life. It takes great courage, but the rewards are immeasurable.

You’ve assembled an incredible ensemble cast. What qualities were you looking for in your actors?

Authenticity. Actors that are honest in their work. And who are fun to be around. No egos. We were lucky to have friends who fit the bill.

How did Anne-Marie Johnson come on board as both lead actress and producer?

I’ve known Anne-Marie since 1986. We met doing a play. And, oh, she’s my wife! So, it was an easy call because she’s the best actor I know and she’s a great producing partner and team player.

The film explores personal reinvention later in life, why was that theme important for you to tell now?

Well, I guess with this film, I’m reinventing myself. This is my first time directing a feature. I had talked about doing it for years but was probably scared. But once we set a date, there was no going back.

Watch the official trailer here:

What were your biggest creative influences, filmmakers, writers, or even personal moments when shaping this story?

Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester By The Sea was a big influence. There’s such a beautiful sadness in that film and yet it’s ultimately full of hope.

How did you approach visual storytelling, were there particular colors, lighting, or framing choices that reflected Jo’s emotional state?

I wanted to keep the camera on sticks as often as we could. I felt like this should be about the characters and not the camera moves. The natural contrast in light between Los Angeles and Bellingham, WA provided us with a great palette of natural color.

What’s coming up next for you?

I’m in the middle of two scripts, one’s a drama and one’s a comedy. Both have taken a back seat to the delivery of The Addiction of Hope. I plan on getting back to them now. The comedy might grab my focus though. I think we all could use a little laughter right about now.

‘The Addiction of Hope’ will screen in Los Angeles at Laemmle Santa Monica November 14^th – 20^th and Laemmle North Hollywood November 17^th. Check out your local listing for movie times.