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Name: Mia
Hometown: Suffern, NY
Occupation: Intern/Stand-In
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What attracted you to the Entertainment Industry, and what was your first job or big break in the business?
Ever since I was a little kid I knew I wanted to work in film. One of my earliest memories is seeing "E.T." in the theaters and being captivated. I wasn't quite sure what was going on or what I wanted to do; I just knew that I wanted to be a part of what I was watching on screen. My first big break was interning for Polygram's theatrical and video marketing division.
What is the biggest challenge you faced trying to break into the industry, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced trying to break into the industry was getting work. I graduated college just as the industry was preparing for a huge strike, so no one was hiring. I over came this obstacle by working for free as an intern.
What advice can you give those trying to break into the "industry?"
Don't give up! Persistence is key, and be willing to pay your dues and work to get experience.
Please describe your job for those who might not know what an Intern/Stand-In is.
As a Set Intern you do your basic P.A. work, from setting up in the morning and breaking down (the set) in the evening, getting water for the cast and crew and making runs to places like Panavision. As a Stand In you are used to help the D.P. (Director of Photography) and Gaffer set up how the actors are going to look in a shot. You "stand in" for the actors so they can take breaks from being under the hot lights on set.
Can you share any tricks of the trade that help you work faster/cheaper/better?
There are four essentials that every Set Intern/P.A. should have.
1. A comfortable pair of sneakers (New Balance) because you on your feet and running most of the day.
2. A pen and note pad of some sort to write things down.
3. A sharpie (because they are always needed on set)
4. A lighter because there is always someone on set who needs a light.
Are you a writer, and if so, how many screenplays have you written?
No.
What's the best lesson you've learned in regards to working in Hollywood?
Be nice to everyone you meet or know in this business, because it's a small "insider" industry and everyone knows everyone.
What advice would you give to writers on how to craft a script that addresses practical production issues?
If you're a writer and you want to get your film made, make it practical. Don't have too many locations or actors or complicated set ups. The more basic the script, the less money you'll need to make it happen.
What advice would you give a director on how to make production easier?
Make sure you communicate what you want and need with everyone that needs to know information. The better communication you have, the better production you'll have (ideally).
List your top 5 favorite films
- Goodfellas
- Fargo
- Bottle Rocket
- Singles
- American Beauty
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