I Did It My Way

It's been a couple of weeks since the BANFF experience and I have been trying to get back into a comfortable rhythm in my life but I have to admit that I  haven't quite gotten there yet.  No sooner did I get off the plane and back into town, a production that I was working on demanded my much needed time and attention and soon after that, I was lost in planning my son's 4th birthday party - I discovered that I am really good at making  production happen for film and TV from the ground up but hmmmm not so good at planning a live production for a house full of kids... Anyhoo, needless to say I survived.  But despite the whirlwind, I have had time a little bit of time to 'exhale' and also to reflect somewhat on the overall BANFF experience.  I've gotta admit that my sentiments from my last blog really hasn't changed - I am ecstatically  happy that I went.  As I was a 'first timer' at the BANFF Film Festival, I dare say that my executive summary could be more applicable to those who are opting to go check out the festival next year.  So my friendly advice is as follows:

- Go to the festival.   If you are a part of the film and television industry - I now see why it is a must.  The who's who usually turn up to these events and they are there to meet you anyways.  This is one of the only opportunities to walk up to say the A&E commissioning editor and introduce yourself while chewing down on a hot dog at a BBQ, compliment that individual on their shoes or outfit and make an impression by simply being you.

- Make a plan.  Especially if this is your first time and especially if you don't really know anyone when you are going ( this was my scenario).  Sign up for the face to face sessions and get out there - that's the only way that you will get seen.  Look at the panels and make a conscious decision on which ones you will attend.  If anything you will learn a whole lot from experienced producers and editors and at the vary least go and attend pitching sessions - I've said it time and again, these are free courses on what not to do in your pitches which is a great building block as to what you should do when you pitch.  The judges asked some really great questions and could be applied to your idea.

- If your objective is to meet as many commissioning editors whether you signed up for face to faces or not, go and line up and wait to see if there are any no shows.  I actually did that a few times and got into a few meet and greets - it is definitely well worth the wait or better yet request a rendez-vous meeting with certain people that was already booked up from day one.  I was surprised to see that the commissioning editors actually check and respond to your personal request - I got a couple of meetings this way and I was nervous at first because I didn't think they would give me the time of day outside of the face to face sessions but hey colour me surprised - they do!

- Go to all social functions that you can bare, smile and start talking to people - you will be surprised who you end up drinking and socializing with.  I got some great advice from the head of Lifetime Movie Network - I had no experience or ideas that may intrigue him to land a deal but we had a few drinks, some beer nuts and he ended up giving me some valuable information on how to merge into the American TV market just because we were hamming it up.  Trust me, I will be taking his advice and moving forward on some of what he suggested my next move should be in my career.

- Have plenty of business cards and just hand them out as you meet people.  That was my boo boo, I didn't have enough cards to go around - and by the way get as many cards as you can - the objective is to follow up with those who you made an impression with or impressed you.  I have already started to send out those emails of " hope you remember me and it was really great meeting you - let's continue or correspondence to a wonderful and prosperous relationship together' well I didn't quite say it like that but you get my drift

- If it all possible, go with an affiliate program like CWC.  I was proud to be a part of this organization, I felt like it gave me a greater sense of purpose and pride and people were dare I say impressed that an organization found it fit to send little old me!  What I loved about CWC is that they allowed me to experience the festival my way.  No heavy duty itinerary that I had to attend or be a part and for me that was a blessing.  

- Last but not least did I mention to wear comfortable shoes?  I am all for looking cute and making a lasting first impression but damn, I had to rub my feet for days after and during the event smile in those God forsaken heels - but I made it though... at least I made it... tee hee.

So thank you CWC for affording me this wonderful and amazing opportunity.  It was truly a life changing experience.  I did not walk away with a deal in hand but I do have a some strong leads to develop projects for certain broadcasters that I would have never been able to access if not for the opportunity and festival.  I feel much more confident in myself as a producer and with me having to present myself, my experience and my abilities, I realized that hey I really do have some chops and that I am worthy to be here and that I do have presence in the world of film and television.  I love it!  I am woman here me roar.  And hey I did --- and I got to do it my way!!!!  

If there is a follow up scholarship for those who have gone and want to go again next year... sign me up will you?  I look forward to other amazing programs to experience through the CWC.  I am forever grateful.

Hope you enjoyed my blogs - Over and Out!