Film producer interview / How to become a movie producer / Career guidance

Summary

Mark Stewart, a former HR professional, shares his journey into film production, emphasizing the importance of emotional storytelling and the business acumen required in the industry. Stewart highlights the challenges of securing initial funding and the creative problem-solving involved in production, such as simulating driving scenes. He also discusses the rewarding aspects of working with talented individuals and the gratification of audience engagement at film festivals. His advice for aspiring filmmakers includes persistence, continuous learning, and effective communication.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker became a TV and film producer after a successful career in HR and business, seeking a new passion and challenge.
• 🎬 The speaker's film education was non-traditional, involving self-study, online learning, and practical experience with industry professionals.
• 🚗 A common film production trick is using stationary vehicles on flatbed trucks to simulate driving scenes.
• 📅 Effective calendar use and scheduling are vital for managing the diverse tasks involved in film production.
• 💡 The importance of creating an emotional connection with the audience through storytelling is emphasized for a successful film.
• 🤝 Building relationships with potential sponsors, partners, and talent is a significant part of a producer's role.
• 🏆 The speaker's first film won awards at festivals, highlighting the possibility of success even for newcomers in the industry.
• 🌐 The film industry is becoming more accessible due to digital technology reducing costs and online platforms disrupting traditional distribution methods.
• 🔍 The speaker's background in business and HR provides a unique perspective and skill set in the creative world of film production.
• 🍵 Creativity on set is essential, as demonstrated by using tea to mimic the appearance of whiskey in a bar scene.
• 🔑 Persistence and continuous learning are key to navigating the challenges of the film industry, from securing funding to audience engagement.

Q & A

What career did Mark Stewart pursue before becoming a TV and film producer?

Mark Stewart worked in the human resources field for 34 years after graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in Business and HR.

Why did Mark decide to retire early from his career in human resources?

Mark decided to retire early to pursue a second career and explore different passions, which eventually led him to filmmaking.

How did Mark's interest in filmmaking develop after his retirement?

Mark's interest in filmmaking developed as he started exploring writing and learning more about the independent film industry, realizing he wanted to be involved in making films as well.

What role does Mark play as a TV and film producer?

As a TV and film producer, Mark is involved from the development of a project, working with directors, finding support, partners, sponsors, financers, and overseeing the project through to distribution.

What does Mark believe is essential for a film to connect with its audience?

Mark believes that a film must tug on the audience's emotions and create an emotional connection; it should make the audience feel something, whether it's fear, laughter, or tears.

Can you describe the process of finding talent for a film project according to Mark?

Mark works with the director to identify the best talent for the project, then communicates with the talent's agents to determine if they can be brought on board.

What was the significance of the film's world premiere for Mark and the team?

The world premiere was significant as it was the first time the audience saw the film. Mark found it gratifying to witness the audience's reaction and participate in the Q&A session that followed.

What challenges did Mark face in getting initial sponsors and financers for his films?

One of the challenges was getting the backing of sponsors and financers, especially when the team was not well-known in the industry.

How does Mark describe the process of shooting driving scenes in films?

In many cases, driving scenes are shot with the vehicle on a flatbed truck, and the camera captures the actors pretending to drive with a backdrop of moving scenery.

What advice does Mark give to someone looking to transition into a new career or field?

Mark advises talking to people in the desired field to understand their journey, seeking out resources like books and online learning, and being persistent in learning and following up with the right connections.

What is one of the key trends Mark sees in the film industry currently?

One key trend Mark identifies is the disruption in the distribution pathway by streaming services like Netflix, Disney, and Amazon, which is changing where and how content is found.

How did Mark creatively solve the issue of empty bottles for a bar scene in one of his films?

Mark and the team filled empty bottles with a mixture of tea and water to mimic the appearance of whiskey or bourbon for a bar scene.

What personal quality does Mark emphasize as important for success in the film industry?

Mark emphasizes the importance of tenacity, persistence, and effective communication with various parties involved in the filmmaking process.