Her Story
About Nicole
Nicole is an award-winning writer, director, producer, editor, novelist, and entrepreneur whose groundbreaking work has helped redefine independent LGBTQ+ cinema for more than three decades. As the founder of Nicole Conn Films Global, she has built a career centered on creating emotionally rich stories that explore love, resilience, healing, and the complexities of the human experience. Known for her authentic portrayals of strong female characters and intelligent adult relationships, Nicole has become one of the most influential voices in lesbian filmmaking, earning a devoted international audience through her distinctive storytelling and unwavering commitment to leading with heart.
Since launching her company in 1993, Nicole has written, directed, and produced a celebrated body of work that includes the cult classic Claire of the Moon, as well as acclaimed films such as Elena Undone, A Perfect Ending, and More Beautiful for Having Been Broken. Her deeply personal documentary Little Man chronicles the remarkable story of her son, who was born 100 days premature weighing less than a pound, and the family's journey through survival and hope in the neonatal intensive care unit. A self-taught creative who proudly credits life's experiences as her greatest education, Nicole has also expanded her impact into television by creating the LGBTQ+ dating competition series Coming Out for Love.
In addition to her filmmaking accomplishments, Nicole is an accomplished author whose award-winning novel Descending Thirds has garnered critical acclaim for its sweeping story of love, ambition, betrayal, and classical music. Written more than two decades before its publication, the novel reflects her lifelong passion for storytelling and her ability to create narratives that resonate across generations. Whether behind the camera, at the editing desk, or crafting stories on the page, Nicole remains dedicated to producing work that inspires, challenges, and heals. Her legacy is one of courage, innovation, and compassion—a creative force who has opened doors for underrepresented voices while proving the enduring power of stories told with authenticity and heart.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nicole
01What do you attribute your success to?
I'm so passionate about what I do and just lead with a heart. People watch my films over and over because they love the feeling and many have used them for healing.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't try to do everything at once. Take little steps that build upon each other. Write a sentence, then two, then a paragraph, building to a novel. Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite. Don't let anybody tell you you can't do it, and ask for favors because people love to give.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Gratitude for literally everything. My religion is gratitude. I do the Serenity prayer in the morning and evening.
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