Brief Summary
The speaker reflects on their career, expressing gratitude to key figures like Sherry Lansing, Paula Wagner, and numerous industry legends who shaped their path in filmmaking. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and contributing to the film industry's growth. The speaker also shares their passion for cinematic storytelling, their commitment to entertaining audiences, and the philosophy of Ubuntu, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity.
- Expresses gratitude to Sherry Lansing, Paula Wagner, and other industry figures.
- Emphasizes continuous learning and collaboration in filmmaking.
- Shares a commitment to entertaining audiences and contributing to the film industry.
- Introduces the philosophy of Ubuntu, highlighting interconnectedness.
Introduction and Gratitude to Sherry Lansing
The speaker begins by expressing deep gratitude to Sherry Lansing for her significant impact on their career and life. They acknowledge Lansing as an exceptional person and highlight her groundbreaking achievement as the first woman to head a major studio, 20th Century Fox, in the 1980s. The speaker recalls meeting Lansing at 18 during the filming of "Taps," a Fox film, describing it as a pivotal moment.
Early Aspirations and Introduction to Filmmaking
The speaker shares their childhood dreams of making movies, traveling the world, and seeking adventure. They recount creating characters and writing stories to entertain family and friends, and using money earned from early jobs to attend movies. Their experience on the set of "Taps" in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, was surreal, working alongside talents like Stanley Jaffe, Harold Becker, Timothy Hutton, and Sean Penn.
Learning on the Set of "Taps"
The speaker describes the unique learning environment provided on the set of "Taps," including weeks of rehearsal, military training, and extensive research opportunities. They were able to observe and learn from brilliant actors and explore every aspect of film production, from cinematography with Owen Roizman to wardrobe, makeup, special effects, and stunts. This immersive experience allowed them to understand the craftsmanship and effort required to make a film.
Commitment to Filmmaking and Meeting Paula Wagner
The speaker expresses being overwhelmed by the vastness of knowledge needed in filmmaking, solidifying their commitment to mastering the art form. After "Taps," Sean Penn invited them to Los Angeles, where they met Paula Wagner, who became their agent and later their producing partner. The speaker thanks Wagner for her friendship and partnership, also acknowledging Rick Nicita, Kevin Huvane, Maha tequil, Joe Lubin, Matt Galser, and Bert Fields for their support.
Seeking Knowledge and Opportunities for Others
The speaker discusses their early dreams and goals, including interviewing filmmakers, writers, and producers to understand their perspectives on storytelling. They hoped to create opportunities for other filmmakers if their movies were successful. The speaker is grateful to industry legends who shared their knowledge and trade secrets, enabling them to develop their own ideas about storytelling.
Gratitude to Industry Mentors and Collaborators
The speaker expresses gratitude to Jerry Bruckheimer for opening doors and welcoming them into the industry. They acknowledge their long-standing relationship with Steven Spielberg, highlighting their collaborative film projects. The speaker recalls meeting Brian De Palma at Spielberg's dinner table, leading to De Palma directing the first "Mission Impossible" film they produced. They also thank various studios for teaching them about distribution and enabling their adventurous life of traveling the world and working in different cultures.
Acknowledgment and Future Commitment
The speaker thanks the PGA, Donald, Stephanie, and Ryan for the award and acknowledges their collaborator, Christopher McCrory. They express gratitude to the audiences for allowing them to entertain, promising to continue striving to accomplish that goal. The speaker congratulates everyone in the room for their creative work and emphasizes the importance of creating one's own luck.
Ubuntu Philosophy and Closing Remarks
The speaker shares their recent filming experience in South Africa and introduces the philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes humanity based on the plural rather than the singular. Ubuntu means "I am because we are," highlighting the interconnectedness of all people. The speaker concludes by thanking everyone, stating, "I am because you are."
