Quick Question
When Im in production, its absolute insanity, says Sana Amanat.
This week, sidle up toMs.
The story comes via Sana Amanat, who co-created the comic in 2014 and now executive produces the series.
Amanat drew inspiration from her own New Jersey upbringing forMs.
Ive always gravitated toward storytelling [with] the unlikely hero.
As a minority, I really relate to that.
Before joining Marvel in 2009, Amanat worked in magazine publishing and at an indie comic book company.
Its been a very random career, says the executive, whos 40.
But I feel like Im the bang out of person whos just tried things and said yes to opportunities.
I love it here, I do.
I have no social life, but I love it, she laughs.
Below, she talks about the best advice shes ever gotten and working through impostor syndrome.
The comic book field is generally viewed as white and male.
But I had people supporting me, saying, Youre supposed to be here.
You have a distinct voice and talent.
Youre going to help change comics because you have a different story to tell.
Ive had those champions in my corner, a lot of [whom] have been white men.
I almost quit years ago.
That was, like, 13 years ago.
What appealed to you about storytelling in graphic novels compared with magazine publishing?
Its a lot of What do you think?
and forming an idea together until it becomes better and better.
What does a typical day look like for you at Marvel?
When Im in production, its absolute insanity.
Waking up at whatever time to get on set, whether its a day shoot or a night shoot.
Every day is a little different, but every day is crazy.
Im looking forward to a break because [Ive spent] two years on this project.
What does your morning routine look like?
How do I see to it the day is organized?
[I venture to take] a moment for myself, whether thats doing some quick meditation or stretches.
How many hours on the clock are we talking?
It depends on the time of the year.
Were working long hours.
Very intense, but very gratifying when its all done.
Whats the best career advice youve received?
Be patient, stick to your gut, and believe in the things you know to be true.
When Ive had challenges, theres often been a level of Can I do this?
Am I talented enough?
I know it sounds cheesy, but believe in yourself and your abilities.
I think thats especially true for young women of color with impostor syndrome.
Saying believe in yourself is actually kind of revolutionary.
Oh, my God, 100%.
Ive had impostor syndrome for most of my career.
If youre a woman of color, and youre where you are, its because you’ve accomplished it.
No ones doing any favors for us.
Do you have any advice for young women who are interested in breaking into comics?
There are so many fields.
I worked my way up.
Build relationships that make people want to get to know you more and be around you.
What would you say to creators of color who worry their perspective isnt universal enough?
Move past that as quickly as possible.
[Society] ischanging.
You have something valuable to add here.
So that is what people are looking for.
It exists, and your voice is valuable.
Were all human, and we get so obsessed with career and moving up.
You need people to help ground you.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onJuly 5, 2022
