Women in Film Change the Standard
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If there were one significant struggle that many women in film and television share, it is constantly proving their talents in a male-dominated industry. However, a unique, Atlanta-based organization, Women in Film and Television, provides a resource and networking hub for women to utilize in their ascension up the ladder of success.
Bringing in the Christmas season with good cheer yesterday, these ambitious ladies celebrated their strengths, aspirations and achievements during their annual holiday party at downtown’s Utopia Tapas & Sushi Lounge.-kim smith
Widdi Turner, VP of Professional Development for WIFTA
What is the purpose of WIFTA?
“It shows women opportunities where they can get involved because there is a network about jobs and things that come along. A lot of times, it’s hard to get into that network. So we’re creating a network as well and giving them the opportunity to get positions. I’ll be honest; it’s not an industry that is sexist or tries to block out women. But because we are not a part of that inner circle of knowing where the jobs are, I think that makes it hard to break in. We are exposing women to more opportunities.”
What advice would you offer another woman who aspires to break into film and television?
“In this industry, sure an education is great, but I’ll be honest; when I got into the industry, almost no one had a degree. It was one of those things where somebody said ‘Hey, I need someone to help on the set.’ You would be a gofer and then the next thing you know, you’re taking off. So to me, opportunities come from going to events like this (and) networking.”
Melissa Randall, WIFTA president
As a double-minority in the industry, how have you overcome any barriers that you may have faced?
“We represent a smaller number and as the president of this organization, I try not to focus on that. I put that energy into what I want to achieve and I let the rest just fade away. This is an industry where your work speaks for you. It’s not just the color of your skin; it’s your work. You cannot be bogged down by the fact that I’m an African American filmmaker. If you could just hone and learn your craft well, the rest will speak for you.”
How much opportunity is there in Atlanta for black independent filmmakers?
“Atlanta is a strong market for independent film makers. We saw that last year and the year before. A lot of independent Atlanta-based projects did really well. They went on to Sundance (Film Festival) and garnered respect nationally and internationally. They got distribution deals. (Writer-director) Hadjii’s ‘Somebodies’ is now on BET. So there is a lot of opportunity.”
Monique McGlockton, new WIFTA member, screenwriter and aspiring dIrector
Describe the experience of breaking into the industry as a writer.
“If you give up when someone told you ‘No’ one time, you’ll never make it in this type of industry. You have to keep going. A lot of people make it after 10, 15 years and we don’t know about them until they come to the top. You have to keep going. It’s difficult but you have to do it every day. You have to keep writing and get yourself out there in the industry.”
What has been your most challenging experience?
“It’s actually about proving yourself. I remember working on a production in southern Georgia as a production coordinator and they found out I was a black woman. I kind of had to prove myself for people to say ‘This lady means business.’ So anything they ask as a production coordinator to do, you know that’s one of your roles. (When) the production is run smoothly (and) the production is on time, then they actually could say ‘Okay.’ So it does have its challenges but you know you have to keep pushing and moving on with the job.”
