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Name: William Campbell
Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina
Occupation: Miramax Television President
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What attracted you to the Entertainment Industry, and what was your first job or big break in the business?
The opportunity to learn programming at Capital Cities/ABC. I was the first Harvard MBA hired by Capital Cities/ABC Inc.
What is the biggest challenge you faced trying to break into the industry, and how did you overcome it?
When you don't know anyone in the business it can be difficult to get some honest advice and guidance. That is one of the reasons why I've been so passionate about seeing Project Greenlight to fruition. We hope that the PGL online community will grow into a forum where people can share information.
What advice can you give those trying to break into the "industry?"
It's all about networking and I highly encourage people to find internships.
I have interns that work in our office while receiving college credit throughout the year.
It's a great learning experience while providing the invaluable opportunity to network.
Please describe your job for those who might not know what a Television President is.
The President of the studio is responsible for all creative, financial and business dealings of the television division. Project Greenlight was an idea that was pitched to Miramax TV which was then developed, packaged with Matt, Ben and LivePlanet and the series was then sold to HBO.
Can you share any tricks of the trade that help you work faster/cheaper/better?
Being able to delegate efficiently and manage the people who are working in your department.
Are you a writer, and if so, how many screenplays have you written?
No one knows this but I wrote the very first draft of Reservoir Dogs, which was originally titled "Canines Around the Pond" (notice you've never seen Quentin and I in the same room).
What's the best lesson you've learned in regards to working in Hollywood?
Only work with the best people both personally & professionally.
What advice would you give a director on how to make production easier?
Don't forget to be collaborative!
List your top 5 favorite films
- The Godfather
- Sounder
- Caddyshack
- The Sound of Music
- Moulin Rouge
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