Hailed by Newsweek as one of the “women shaping the 21st century," singled out by NPR on their list of “best commencement speeches, ever,” and hot off her recent Emmy-nomination, Tiffany Shlain is a local filmmaker, founder of The Webby Awards, and author who we really want to be friends with.
On October 24, Shlain premiered the second season of her Emmy-nominated web series, The Future Starts Here on AOL. The series explores what it means to be human in an increasingly connected world. With Shlain's signature style of fast-paced images, colorful animations, and daring insights, the show delves into everything from the latest neuroscience to the evolution of social media and encourages audiences to think about where we're headed as a society.
We asked the filmmaker for some insight into her life in San Francisco:
1. What neighborhood do you currently call home? Would you ever move or are you happy in your 'hood?
I currently live in Mill Valley with my family and my film studio is in San Francisco near Claude Lane, which reminds me of Paris. When I lived in the city before kids, I lived in Potrero Hill. I love that neighborhood. Funky, artistic, great long distance views.
2. What's your hands-down, absolute favorite thing to eat in SF?
The BBQ shrimp at Townhall with Worcestershire sauce and garlic herb toast. It’s insane. So is their butterscotch pot crème.
3. What's your perfect night on the town?
Date night with my husband: dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, a film preferably at the Kabuki Cinemas or one of the art house theaters, and a drink afterwards to discuss the film and life.
4. When you need a low-key afternoon, where do you go for down time?
I love to stroll. Hayes Valley and Crissy Field are perfect places to wander.
5. What's your favorite place to go on a day trip from the city?
My husband Ken and I love to go rent a houseboat at Nick’s Cove and eat oysters.
6. Quick-fire round
Burrito or Burger: Burrito
Presidio or Golden Gate Park: Golden Gate Park
BiRite or Mitchell's: BiRite
Bike or MUNI: Bike
Fort Mason or Dolores Park: Fort Mason
The Independent or the Fillmore: The Independent
Baker Beach or Ocean Beach: Ocean beach
6. Three words that describe your life in SF?
Inspiring. Colorful. Homebase.
