A Conversation with Patty Jenkins
by Karen Pecota

An Interview and an audience Q&A

Steve Bellamy, President of Motion Picture and Entertainment at the Eastman Kodak Company, moderated the conversation with Patty Jenkins. Steve introduced Jenkins as a longtime colleague and friend in the entertainment industry and shared wonderful accolades honoring her achievements.

Filmmaker Patty Jenkins is the first female to pass the million–dollar mark going from a small budget film to making one of the biggest movies in the history of cinema. Her $1.5 million movie MONSTER won her several awards and grossed $64.2 million. Steve notes that every time she shares a bit of knowledge or wisdom about filmmaking...people listen.

Bellamy's first question: "What are the things we don't see, that cause movies to be made, but should be more aware of as filmmakers?" Jenkins says, "There's a lot of talk about agents, managers, reps, script options, etc. but the truth is, the people I saw (first being in the industry as a camera person) who made it had these things going for them:1) Tenacity(they weren't often the most talented); 2) Excellent work ethic; 3) Didn't obsess; 4) Focus on the work; 5) Recognize that there is more justice than one thinks; 6) Watching people fail and keep going forward.” Adding, “But, one needs a product that is good. then persevere.”

Jenkins uses the imagery of a brick wall, in regard to what filmmakers should be doing to build their career. She says, "Face a vintage brick wall. You are one of the bricks, and then observe the differences in sizes and shapes." Continuing, "Everyone has the ability to push through the wall at a different time garnering that each person (as a brick) has a different experience." Jenkins feels that building a career comes naturally through experience and education. For example: 1) Listen to filmmakers talk; 2) Read books; 3) Get on set and watch films being made; 4) Immerse yourself in what you need to learn to be better; 5) Use any job you take in order to learn and get you to your goal; 6) Ask yourself, "Am I learning something here that will take me one step closer to my goal of making a film?"

Impressive is that Jenkins' words of wisdom are accompanied by relatable examples about real life and delightfully colorful. "The second you get a deal, understand that it never gets easy to make a great film. Once you are in the deal there will be so many things to solve and it is all consuming. Things will change from your expectations so be flexible and be ready for it." Continuing, "Look at it like a boxer might look at being prepared for a punch in the face. Do the same! Be prepared to take a hit but know how to keep standing and keep it together. And, be a decent person in the midst of it." Adding, "Being a director, filmmaker, producer, etc. can make you a better person because we have to depend on each other for a successful outcome. I've learned from people I have liked the least on set. Give opportunity for others to collaborate on the project. Don't fight people just because it's not your idea. When you are in charge, aim for excellence on everyone's behalf; stay vigilant and watchful that you are being the caretaker of that excellence."

Bellamy and Jenkins talked about the similarities and differences from small to large budget films noting that there are more similarities due to the routine of making a film. One difference is the director spends the most consistent time on a project and that could involve years of intense hard work.

A discussion surfaced about using digital vs. film. Jenkins prefers to shoot on film because it allows her the control to develop the quality necessary for the storytelling. Her reasons are many but one technical aspect in order to capitalize on superior visuals is the use of Vanir– presenting visuals of another world.

Jenkins closes with these remarks on the AI influence and the need for a core process. "One has to keep abreast of the progress regarding AI because it’s a new technology. We need to remember that what never changes is that a well-told story is king. It can reach incredible heights and focus on things that are true. What always changes are studios, their management, money, art forms, audiences and one needs to stay open to how it all works."

"If you want to be a great director, actor, producer, etc. it doesn't come by accident so work hard, produce with excellence and deliver." Jenkins continues, "We live in an incredible time in history for storytelling. We need to engage with the world at hand; in order to look and develop our craft much more than what Hollywood has treated it."