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First of all, why don't you introduce yourself to those of us who
don't already know you? Thanks
for the opportunity! My name is Lania Kayell, and I am an indie film
producer. I currently produce TV series and films, but I got my start as a
background actor nearly ten years ago. I hope to continue working with
talented writers, directors, and producers to create amazing content! Do talk about some of your
current and future projects, and where can your work be seen?
You can find out more about my work at all the links included within this
article. I am currently working on a feature film about astar college
quarterback who is hiding from his own personal trauma who falls in love
with a precocious student with cerebral palsy.
What got you into film production in the first place, and did you
receive any formal education on the subject?
I did not receive a formal education. However, I found opportunities like
internships, classes, film studies groups, and on-set experience. My start
was actually unexpected. I was supposed to be promoting a skateboarding
company. We were supposed to receive free photos to build our portfolio. I
did not realize they were also filming a short film. It was a fun
experience. I remember earning my first paycheck as a background actor. I
was a guest at a beach wedding for a web series. We also got lunch and
free parking! I kept at it and started getting speaking roles and working
on set as part of the crew. How
would you describe yourself as a producer, and how hands-on or hands-off
are you on set? And what do you feel are your strengths as a producer, and
mayge also your weaknesses? I have been able to work on
projects in different locations while contributing remotely. I have worked
on set and prefer to be involved as much as possible. I am great at
research, casting/crewing up, communications, and creative marketing. I
could improve on finding more resources for raising capital. There are
some areas on the business side that I would like to also focus more on. Do talk about some of
your early productions for a bit, and about your growth as a producer?
I feel like I’m still in an early phase and learning. I try to take
pieces of information from each production. I’m learning how important it
is to plan for marketing and distribution. I’m also being more selective
about the projects I choose. I’m building my experience and finding ways
to be a stronger producer. What are some qualities you're looking for in projects before
you decide to produce them? I need to understand and
connect with the writer/director in order to bring the story to life. It
is important for me to collaborate with a writer/director that can remain
passionate and focus on the production goals through the uncertainties and
stress that comes with this type of work. I seem to work very well with
go-getters. A great script, pitch deck and strategic plan are all
important. As a producer, you seem
at home in many a genre - so do you have any preferences?
There are so many, I really cannot decide on which one is my favorite. I
think there needs to be some sort of message that is conveyed. This can be
expressed through different genres. If it sparks my interest and there are
strong characters, then I am interested in learning more. Lately, I have
been producing dramas and comedies.
If you could give a budding producer but one piece of advice, what
would it be? Figure out what resource(s) you can bring as a producer and enhance that
as you learn and work with others that have more experience. Try to be as
communicative and creative as possible. Take risks, have fun, and expect
for things to not always go as planned. Producers, filmmakers, whoever else who inspire you?
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Feeling lucky? Want to search any of my partnershops yourself for more, better results? (commissions earned) |
The links below will take you just there!!!
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Issa Rae, Shonda Rhimes, Lena Waithe - to name a few wonderful producers. Your favourite movies?
Training Day, Catch Me if You Can,
Enemy of the State. ... and of course, films you really deplore?
Hmm none come to mind at the moment ;)
Your wevbsite, social media, whatever else?
https://linktr.ee/laniakayell
https://www.instagram.com/laniakayell/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9493630/
Thanks for the interview! |