Inspirational Women In Hollywood: How Filmmaker C M Conway Is Helping To Shake Up The Entertainment Industry
An Interview With Guernslye Honoré
Learn how to flip failure: If a project starts to go sideways, you didn’t nail that audition or you simply failed at something, learn to flip it. Find out why it happened, what you’ve learned, or a new opportunity it presents. Make this a habit, and you’ve just beat the odds. In doing just this one thing, it turned into the entertaining theme of our feature film.
As a part of our series about Inspirational Women In Hollywood, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing C.M. Conway.
C.M. Conway (she/her) is a filmmaker, communications and storytelling consultant. She helps organizations, brands and filmmakers hone their storytelling style. Her diverse film, “How to Successfully Fail in Hollywood” became the little indie that could and now available on a top streaming giant. The witty and poignant film is inspired by her story, and features friends flipping failure in outrageous Tinseltown; along with a heartfelt journey of friendship and self-discovery. The film’s podcast is on Apple, iTunes and other popular platforms, and invites and shares the slip-up stories of creatives and insights gained. Ms. Conway has been featured in numerous media outlets; and dedicated to uplifting the stories of minorities while unearthing unique stories of women, marginalized cultures and communities. Her new film “Court(ship)” in development, is a romantic comedy with dramatic courtroom elements involving an LGBTQ+ human rights issue.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?
Sure. I grew up in the North Bay, California in a small town. However, I had a big imagination and would perform plays at home, at school and in dance recitals throughout my youth. I also enjoyed the beauty of nature all around.
I was raised in a large family, and the value of work was instilled in me at a young age. I had my first job as a pre-teen at a garden nursery; and was bussing tables as a teenager to save up money to buy my sister’s car. I distinctly recall the feeling of earning and buying that car (my first). It was very satisfying.
I graduated college with two degrees, in English and Communications. I went to Los Angeles for the summer and ended up staying there for years, pursuing my dreams in the entertainment industry and building my business. I then moved back to the North Bay and love the quality of life here.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
The arts have always been a part of my life growing up, and in school and college, in addition to living in Los Angeles for many years. It’s funny, I didn’t formally study acting and dance in school, but always had them as electives. Julia Louis-Dreyfus once mentioned humorously in an interview that sometimes she still feels acting is an elective.
The art of film and storytelling have always been passions of mine, so it was a natural trajectory. I have always had the knack of thinking cinematically, and studied filmmaking informally. Once in Los Angeles, I studied improvisation; and then took a great scene study and acting class for a number of years with a wonderful acting teacher. She taught me many things, including the value of working on your craft.
In tandem with pursuing my dreams, I built a business providing storytelling, arts programs and consulting. My specialty is the art of storytelling and how to craft it for dynamic communication in business, branding and media (like films). Storytelling is an ancient art form housed in our collective DNA. Folklore, folktales and myths have been told over time, and include archetypes and mythology we can readily observe today in popular themes in literature, the news, cinema, etc. Being aware of how to utilize this ancient art form is vital, since it’s being leveraged all the time around us.
Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
Making my first feature film was very interesting!
When I moved out of Los Angeles and back to the North Bay, that’s when the idea came to make my first feature film about all the ups and downs I experienced in Tinseltown. That became the little indie that could called, “How to Successfully Fail in Hollywood.”
The film was first a book I wrote, then it became a screenplay I was going to enter in various contests or try to get produced. I’ll never forget the day when I felt the screenplay was ready. I suddenly had this strong sense I was the one that needed to make it into a film. I can’t explain it, except on some level I felt I had been preparing for it my entire life. Which really ended up being the case, since I utilized every skill I honed in Hollywood.
The story depicts all the mishaps and missteps that happen to us as artists in the industry, and learning to look them dead in the eye and laugh and gain insights (and deepen friendships) along the way. The film is a heartfelt journey of friendship and self-discovery between the main characters Ellie and Ben; while learning to embrace the very imperfections that make them unique.
I really wanted to make a film that speaks to the experiences of the largest population of the entertainment industry itself: the unknown, hardworking artists trying to make it against all odds. It’s also a funny ‘how not to’ guide to the industry, and all the pitfalls and pratfalls to avoid. I feel people will save a lot of their own time and resources learning from the funny flubs in the film, if they’re pursuing their dreams in Tinseltown. The mistakes are so popular, they’re running for prom queen.
I was the executive producer, director, writer, editor and also co-starred in the film. I just started the process and a momentum occurred that made it clear the wind was at my back. It took a lot of hard work, preparation and team work of a wonderful cast and crew; in addition to a community grassroots effort of my town, the Bay Area, and local businesses that allowed us to film in their locations. We also filmed in Los Angeles, including in front of the iconic Hollywood Sign, which was a dream come true.
Gender equity is very important to me, and we had a female-led crew. We also had a diverse cast, and positive depiction of (the protagonist) Ellie’s best friend Ben, a lead Latinx gay character authentically and beautifully represented by actor Adrian Gilbert.
The whole experience of making the film, our public opening at a cinema, theatrical screenings, being selected by a renowned film institute and ending up at the American Film Market was a great experience and whirlwind. The local press got wind, as they were interested in covering various aspects of the film, especially the fact I was actually talking about failure and not treating it like a social stigma. They helped boost the film, and the national press followed. My background in marketing also didn’t hurt.
We had lots of fun along the way. For example, there is a life-like dog in the film named Cassie. She’s Ellie’s dog, and an adorable fiber-art sculpture made by Nancy Winn. When people first see her, they think she’s real. They love taking pictures with her when I would bring her to the screenings. I also would take her to studio interviews, and she would be end up stealing the show!
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
That’s so true, mistakes really can be our best teachers. It’s also serendipitous, because my film is inspired by many of the funny mistakes I’ve made in the industry, that are fairly common.
I recall the time I had an audition for the comedy television sketch show of a celebrity I admired. It was for a funny character, and I came in a ridiculous costume. I was so excited. This was my first audition for such a show, and I remember walking around the house and imitating this comic all the time when I was younger. It was simply surreal.
As I was waiting in the lobby to audition for the show, the celebrity actually came strutting around the corner. I had no idea he was actually going to be there. To my simultaneous delight and horror, he noticed my costume, walked right up to me and said with a smile, “Are you sure you’re in the right place?” I was so nervous, I blurted out something weird, and he politely replied and promptly left.
Finally, I was called in to audition, and the casting director and cameraperson were good-natured. After I did my schtick, they asked if I would mind if the celebrity imitated me in a sketch. I was wondering if they were aware of what happened, but said, “Of course not!”
The show wasn’t on the air long, so who knows what would have happened. But I have learned since then, celebrities are just people too. And, to breathe if I happen to meet one… and think before I speak.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
My husband and family have helped me in many ways.
Also, Julie Ariola was my teacher in the acting and scene study class I mentioned. She really helped me understand and develop the craft from many angles, and life lessons I remember to this day. The work was unflinching, enriching and helped build courage. These were invaluable lessons I am grateful for to this day. I honestly don’t think I could have performed all the roles behind the camera in the film, and acted in front of the camera too, without the foundation her class gave me.
You have been blessed with great success in a career path that can be challenging. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path, but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?
I’ll go more into detail about this later in the article, but in addition to working hard at your craft, stay true to yourself. You know yourself better than anyone, so keep rooted in your own uniqueness, vision and voice. It’s not a failure if you are true to yourself, and learn something to move you forward or help you appreciate an aspect of life a little more. Plus, always remember the greats have had great failures. It’s an inevitable part of the process, embrace it.
I like what Oprah Winfrey says: If you enjoy the process, it’s never a failure.
Every industry iterates and seeks improvement. What changes would you like to see in the industry going forward?
I’d like to see more positive aspects human nature reflected in filmmaking, storytelling and characters in films. They are out there, it just seems there is a strong trend towards horror films. If I had a dime every time I heard horror films are a slam dunk (financially), I’d be able to independently fund my next film.
Now, an intelligent, good thriller is something different, and doesn’t use the crutch of gore. What you don’t see can be used to a powerful effect in the mind of the audience.
I may be stating the obvious here and it may not be popular, but the horror genre often has women as victims. It unfortunately contributes to a negative cycle of violence towards women. In general, it’s important to stop glorifying violence in films. Movies are a very influential medium, and senseless or gratuitous violence has a numbing effect to the reality. This goes for video games too.
As filmmakers and content creators, it’s important to be aware that what we do contributes to the collective psyche and create responsibility.
I’m a big fan of utilizing the power of cinema for stories that reveal hopeful aspects of our humanity and empathy.
You have such impressive work. What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? Where do you see yourself heading from here?
I’m excited about a film I wrote that is now in development. We’re currently in the process of fundraising. Our nonprofit fiscal sponsor is From the Heart Productions and the founder Carole Dean, recently won the Indie Film Visionary Award at the ETHOS Film Awards in 2023. Award-winning Lisa Stoll is our cinematographer (she was our cinematographer in our last film too).
Our indie is a romantic comedy with dramatic courtroom elements entitled, “Court(ship).” I won one of twenty-five very competitive spots at the American Film Market’s Pich Fest based on my pitch for this film, with rousing results. Hundreds apply to pitch at this event in front of an industry panel and a huge audience.
The film is about trying to find one’s humanity is a sea of influences; and follows two jurors who find themselves at opposite ends of the spectrum in a case involving a human rights issue of a queer woman of color. It’s a most unlikely romance, as their fates unravel to reveal they’re inextricably intertwined. Are love and justice blind?
I have people close to me who are members of the LGBTQ+ community. Frankly, it can be overwhelming to observe the current climate and legislations being passed across the nation attempting to limit or obliterate the rights and access of this community. Book bans with related themes have also taken hold. The Human Rights Campaign for the first time in history, has declared a state of emergency for LQBTQ+ people.
We simply don’t have the luxury to sit on the sidelines. Along with supporting the community in various causes; as a filmmaker, I strive to depict important and entertaining stories in addition to positive, authentic role models.
Film and television are powerful mediums to promote profound understanding for marginalized people and voices.
We are very interested in looking at diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture and our youth growing up today?
Firstly, diversity is simply a necessity. When we include more representation, we widen our world-view and perspectives, and that can only make our projects more enriching, inclusive and relevant.
Secondly, culturally diverse projects widen the audience of appeal. If leaders and creators need a reason (above common sense) involving the bottom line, there it is.
Thirdly, we don’t know what we don’t know. When we see more minority voices and stories in film and television, they help illuminate issues that are hidden or located in blind spots. This helps us understand and have more empathy for those at the center of these issues; and ideally, inspires us to become social agents of change.
This positively impacts our culture in innumerable ways, especially when minorities and youth can see themselves and their cultures and/or identities represented in the media landscape. This transmutes to the feeling they matter and are included in our society, especially marginalized populations. This also models how they can create more diversity in their projects, too; contributing to a ripple effect that can push the needle on social justice issues, legislation and human relationships.
It all boils down to the power of storytelling when utilized effectively.
It’s important to remember nature thrives with more diversity. Why would it be any different in entertainment?
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
- Work hard at your craft: There is no replacement or shortcuts to doing the work. Not only is it its own reward, but you can fall back on these skills in numerous ways when challenges fly into your path. For instance, all the hard work in Los Angeles paid off when making my feature film. Every set I was on, each opportunity gained (or lost), every failure, success, audition, production of smaller projects — all of it came in handy.
- Create your own opportunities and community: As an artist, sometimes you just have to create your own opportunities if you’re not making headway or finding the projects that utilize your full talents. That’s what I did with our film, “How to Successfully Fail in Hollywood,” and it was a satisfying experience on many levels. And you never know who may be impacted by your creation.
Also, creating or joining an established community of like-minded individuals will keep you supported and afloat during your journey. This can be good friends, family, and/or creative collaborators who share your values such as diversity, gender and social equity, inclusion, quality storytelling, etc.
3. Feed your soul: Find the things in your life that consistently feed the healthy and best parts of you. This can be surrounding yourself with people who support you, doing activities you love, spending time with a cherished pet, or recharging in nature. This also helps you gain perspective, and see the big picture.
4. Learn how to flip failure: If a project starts to go sideways, you didn’t nail that audition or you simply failed at something, learn to flip it. Find out why it happened, what you’ve learned, or a new opportunity it presents. Make this a habit, and you’ve just beat the odds. In doing just this one thing, it turned into the entertaining theme of our feature film.
5. Be true to yourself: This can’t be overstated. If you stay rooted in your being and true to your values; you are more likely to connect with those that align with your work. Staying aware and connected also helps you listen to your intuition, a vital compass to help navigate a myriad of situations with your mind, heart and soul in synchronicity.
Can you share with our readers any self-care routines, practices or treatments that you do to help your body, mind or heart to thrive? Please share a story for each one if you can.
Certainly. For me, this can be boiled down to one consistent practice of being in nature. It helps me remember my place in the world which is both miniscule and reverent, at the same time. We can learn so much from the beauty, pace, seasons and patterns of nature … if we only take the time. Animals are also wonderful teachers, including pets. They are so present. In an increasingly digitized world where AI is becoming a looming presence, nature always reminds us who is truly in charge.
Recently, I was on a walk and came across a young buck all by himself. His horns were newly formed, and he was about 100 yards from me. I was struck that he simply stood there, observing me. Usually, deer run away instantly. But there was a quiet strength to his gaze. I know if I moved one more step in his direction, he would have darted away.
It was clear this buck trusted his ability to sense either a threat or peaceful traveler.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
Salma Hayek Pinault once said in an interview that if you enjoy the process, it’s your dream. If you don’t enjoy the process, it’s someone else’s dream.
I’ve never forgotten that quote, and it’s very relevant in my life. When I’m working on something, I check to see if I’m actually enjoying the process. Especially in filmmaking, since it’s a lot of hard work. If you are not finding joy in certain aspects of it, that will come across on screen. The opposite is also true.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?
I mentioned this in another article, but I believe understanding breeds empathy. One movement to propel this forward is if someone took time one day out of the week to try to understand someone they judge. This could be through watching a documentary, volunteer work or listening to someone in your community. An organization called The Human Library has a wonderful ongoing series called “Unjudge Somone.” Our society is becoming very polarized in certain aspects, and developing more empathy can be a solution to this problem (among many), and doesn’t cost a thing.
Understanding is also more accessible when someone isn’t concerned with basic human needs and rights. And at the risk of sounding trite, helping alleviate third-world poverty and human rights violations are also up on the list.
Is there a person in the world whom you would love to have lunch with, and why? Maybe we can tag them and see what happens!
This may be a little unconventional, but I would love to have lunch with my friend Jim Avedikian, who recently passed away. He was a proud, luminous gay man who immeasurably helped the LGBTQ+ community in his work, generosity and spirit. You can try tagging him, and he might respond in his own way. He was a believer of a little miracle, and he was one himself. He emanated kindness and joy, such a shining star.
Are you on social media? How can our readers follow you online?
I appreciate you asking. At FunnyFailureFilm.com, folks can find the online link to view our film, “How to Successfully Fail in Hollywood,” and/or be a part of our new film “Court(ship)” in development. We are also on Facebook and the platform formerly known as Twitter.
This was so informative, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity, and much success to you as well!
About the interviewer: Guernslye Honoré, affectionately known as “Gee-Gee”, is an amalgamation of creativity, vision, and endless enthusiasm. She has elegantly twined the worlds of writing, acting, and digital marketing into an inspiring tapestry of achievement. As the creative genius at the heart of Esma Marketing & Publishing, she leads her team to unprecedented heights with her comprehensive understanding of the industry and her innate flair for innovation. Her boundless passion and sense of purpose radiate from every endeavor she undertakes, turning ideas into reality and creating a realm of infinite possibilities. A true dynamo, Gee-Gee’s name has become synonymous with inspirational leadership and the art of creating success.
