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Name: Earl
Hometown: Huron, SD
Occupation: Production Accountant
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What attracted you to the Entertainment Industry, and what was your first job or big break in the business?
Performing/playing drums in bands since age 14.
First job - assistant in a theme park design firm's accounting department, which led to T.V./Film contacts that got me my first production job.
What is the biggest challenge you faced trying to break into the industry, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was not knowing anyone, because this business is ALL about who you know; who knows you, etc... I overcame that by taking every job that came along. I turned down NOTHING, no matter the pay.
What advice can you give those trying to break into the "industry?"
Make LA and NYC contacts. If you have to take a year and live there, do it. Take ALL jobs; no pay, no credit, etc... Understand that your life will be your work for 2-5 years. Relationships will suffer, but if you want "the industry," be prepared to do whatever is asked of you. Don't give up, but keep your dignity.
Please describe your job for those who might not know what a Production Accountant is.
I am in charge of paying whatever is to be paid, be it actors, crew, bills, anything. I set up accounts in the city we're in so we can obtain whatever the production needs. Banking and credit departments are who I deal with mostly. Also, you need to be aware of Union/legal/Federal issues that pertain.
Can you share any tricks of the trade that help you work faster/cheaper/better?
- Never call the unions for advice; you'll send up a red flag.
- Come in early (8 AM or so); it'll help you get a jumpstart on the day.
- Make Excel templates of every different kind of scenario. You'll be ahead of the producer's questions; ex: What does a locations day cost? What does a Saturday cost, etc...
Please illustrate the way the performance of your position can help or hurt a movie. Name a movie that you've seen (or worked on) that we could view and understand the difference between a good job and a bad job.
If you're not organized, payments such as Per Diem to actors may get delayed. This makes them upset, and they'll tell the Producer who will in tern, come down on you. Actors/Production Executives need to be treated like brat children ready to throw a fit! Anticipate their needs/requirements and go out of your way to make them happy.
Are you a writer, and if so, how many screenplays have you written?
N/A
What's the best lesson you've learned in regards to working in Hollywood?
Be easy going - NO MATTER WHAT! Don't say or act what you feel or think. Still, don't put up with "non-human" treatment. Retain your dignity; people (most people) will respect you.
What advice would you give to writers on how to craft a script that addresses practical production issues?
N/A
What advice would you give a director on how to make production easier?
Remain HUMAN. Don't become anything at work that wouldn't be tolerated a home.
**Please feel free to add other comments here
Always remember: THIS IS JUST A MOVIE!!!! There are people who work SO much harder than you and don't have the perks. Be a true and good human being, and always HAVE FUN; THIS IS THE GREAT STUFF!
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