The Big Conversation: Controlling the Narrative
by Karen Pecota

I was happy to attend an in-person panel discussion located at the Filmmakers Lodge called The Big Conversation: Controlling the Narrative. I screened the films the featured guests were representing at the festival. I was ready to listen and learn how they control a film narrative.

Due to the fact that no one individual has the same experience in the industry; this panel discussion was enlightening as each guest shared personal storytelling with sincerity, kindness and integrity. There was no appearance of arrogance. Super refreshing!

Moderated by Effie Brown, she requested each panelist to introduce themselves and mention the film they were representing at the festival. Eugenio Derbez is actor, director, screenwriter producer (RADICAL). Diane Becker is a producer (KING COAL), and Tommy Oliver is a producer (TO LIVE AND DIE AND LIVE, GOING TO MARS: THE NIKKI GIOVANNI PROJECT, FANCY DANCE, and YOUNG.WILD.FREE.). They gave a short synopsis of their journey in the industry, engaged in a Q & A (question and answer) session with the audience and shared heartfelt advice for filmmakers.

Eugenio wears several hats within the industry: actor, screenwriter, director, and producer. He was asked the impact of his screenwriting and explained, "I received many scripts, as an actor that did not appeal to me so I began to write scripts of stories that spoke to me and this has given me a voice to share with others and to keep relevant in the industry." Eugenio gave a personal example of screenwriting. He wrote a screenplay and shopped it around. He received only unsatisfactory critique to cut and re-write over and over. Eugenio knew those changes would not be his story so he put it on the shelf. Twelve years later he produces the film to his liking. The film was Mexico's highest grossing film of all time. This is controlling the narrative.

Diane likes collaborating with others as it gives her the opportunity as a producer to seek out a variety of storytelling. She says, "There is no real secret sauce here because it's the people, the story, or the project that attracts me. Over the years one gains a sixth sense of what is going to be good." Collaborating with different directors is important to Diane and say, "To share in another's passion and support their vision is rewarding". She is also compelled to work with first time filmmakers in order to protect them so they can genuinely tell their story.

Tommy is all about producing. He likes to write the checks. He also likes the role of enabling filmmakers to succeed. His task of controlling the narrative is the process of choosing a story. Tommy shares that in order to fight for the essence of someone's story, as a producer, one has to understand the director's vision and then decide whether to support them or not. He added that he doesn't want to work with people who are not good at their craft. Inadequacy leads to many problems and the impact it has on a project can be devastating.

All shared that it is important to know how to listen, take advice gracefully and know when to say NO. Their conversation was enlightening as they shared examples of their own mistakes; as well as, their answers to what would make them step back from a project or a person. Without hesitation the panelists shared: "If it is not in my wheelhouse"; "A lack of communication or collaboration"; "If a filmmaker refuses to understand the appropriate value of their film".

The three closed with words of encouragement: Eugenio said, "Have a good idea first because any good script will open a door." Diane added, "If you are passionate about your project keep moving forward and find good collaborators." Tommy closed, "Knock on the door to bring a project and not to ask for a job. Show confidence in your talent. One needs to have patience, intention and a confident but humble spirit when pitching their projects".

Together they acknowledged that the Sundance Film Festival is a special place. Tommy shared his deep appreciation for what he has learned and received from the supportive institution. He is grateful and humbled to be a part of what Sundance has to offer.