Robin Bain: 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became A Filmmaker
Interview with Guernslye Honorés
You’re in this for the long haul: Success in the film industry is often a marathon, not a sprint. Overnight success is a rarity, and it may take a couple of decades of hard work, persistence and learning from experiences to see significant results. Embrace the journey and stay committed to your long-term goals. Truth be told, over more than two decades, I dedicated thousands upon thousands of hours, navigating through very few highs, but many, many lows, to painstakingly carve out the position I currently hold as a filmmaker.
As a part of our series called “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became A Filmmaker,” I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Robin Bain.
Bain is a multi-award-winning writer, director and producer, renowned for her impactful work in the world of independent film. She first gained widespread recognition with her thought-provoking film, Girl Lost, which delves into the harrowing issue of sex trafficking in the United States. Released in 2018, this compelling piece of cinema struck a chord with audiences and swiftly ascended to the coveted #1 trending spot on Amazon Prime Video.
Bain continued to make waves in the film industry when, in 2021, she returned with Girl Lost: A Hollywood Story. This poignant drama continued to explore the lives of those affected by sex trafficking and achieved yet another remarkable feat in becoming the #1 drama on Amazon Prime.
Bain’s films not only capture the hearts of viewers but also serve as a powerful vehicle for raising awareness about deeply troubling issues affecting women.
Robin Bain’s latest project, the LGBTQ+ drama Girls on Film, made its debut on video-on-demand on Nov. 7, 2023, securing the top spot as the newest LGBTQ+ release on Amazon Prime Video. This highly awaited premiere not only highlights her prowess in storytelling but also demonstrates a keen cinematic eye in addressing crucial societal issues. As a filmmaker dedicated to bringing important narratives to the forefront, Girls on Film is poised to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of contemporary cinema.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit of the backstory of how you grew up?
I was raised in a small town with a loving and supportive family. Engaging in competitive sports during my upbringing imparted invaluable lessons and skills. From my earliest memories, a fervent desire to venture into the film business stirred within me, motivating me to aspire towards Hollywood as the ultimate destination.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
From a young age, I was captivated by the stories of underdogs, with a special affinity for the movie Rocky and the inspiring journey of Sylvester Stallone in creating it. Even though I couldn’t quite articulate it at the time, I had an innate sense that I would ultimately become a writer and director, despite not fully understanding the implications of those roles. My fascination with filmmaking began early, with vivid memories dating back to when I was around 10 years old. I even documented this ambition in a diary, expressing my knowing that one day I would be a known filmmaker.
In 8th grade, I began capturing still photos and crafting collages that conveyed narratives through imagery. Reflecting on this, I can’t pinpoint the origin; it wasn’t something encouraged by anyone but rather an internal calling. With no familial ties to the film industry, I embarked on a bold move to Hollywood at 18, lacking any connections. Despite the uncertainty and the absence of a clear plan, I pressed forward, fueled by an unwavering belief in my dream. This early passion, combined with the determination to carve a path in an industry where I initially knew no one, motivated me to pursue my calling as a filmmaker. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of childhood dreams and the resilience that propels the journey toward transforming those dreams into reality.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting story that occurred to you in the course of your filmmaking career?
One of the most interesting or perhaps most pivotal moments in my filmmaking career occurred during my early days as a production assistant. I started by running errands, bringing coffee to higher-ups and observing the hustle and bustle on commercial and music video sets. Despite being behind the scenes, I soaked in every bit of knowledge and experience.
One day, feeling a surge of determination, I mustered the courage to share my dream with an executive on set. I boldly declared that I aspired to be a writer and director. However, the response wasn’t exactly encouraging. A short time later, I overheard that executive whispering to another person that my dream was nothing more than a “pie in the sky.”
Instead of letting discouragement take over, I used those words as fuel to propel me forward. I never gave up on my dream and continued to work diligently, honing my skills and learning from every opportunity.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
The individuals who captivate me the most and whom I have found are the most interesting are the everyday people around the world, especially women, facing pain, tribulations and challenges in their lives. Their stories, often marked by struggles and setbacks, resonate deeply with me, inspiring a commitment to writing and filmmaking that captures the authenticity of their journeys.
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?
I attribute a significant part of my success to a chance meeting with producer Marc Clebanoff of Odyssey Motion Pictures, for which I am incredibly grateful. At a time when my work was struggling to find recognition, Marc saw potential and believed in my vision. Our paths crossed in a serendipitous encounter and from that moment he took my first movie, Girl Lost, under his wing. Marc’s unwavering support, belief in my creative endeavors and willingness to champion my work when no one else would, proved to be a pivotal turning point in my career.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
My favorite life lesson quote, imparted by my dad, is “Believe in yourself and act on that belief.” This simple yet powerful wisdom encapsulates the essence of my approach to life. It serves as a constant reminder that self-confidence and proactive decision-making are the cornerstones of personal growth and success.
I am very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?
- By showcasing characters from various backgrounds, ethnicities, genders and cultures, the media can more authentically mirror the diversity present in our global society. This not only provides a more accurate portrayal of reality but also allows audiences to connect with a broader range of stories and perspectives.
- Exposure to diverse narratives fosters empathy and understanding among audiences. When people see characters who differ from themselves, it challenges stereotypes and fosters a deeper appreciation for the shared humanity that transcends cultural and societal boundaries.
- Film and television have the power to influence societal norms and values. By incorporating diverse perspectives into storytelling, the media can play a pivotal role in shaping cultural attitudes. Positive and authentic representation can challenge discriminatory practices, contribute to the dismantling of stereotypes and inspire social change.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
I am committed to a consistent thematic focus in my projects, building upon my previous films that have effectively shed light on women’s issues and the experiences of those working in the sex industry. Through my ongoing work, I aim to further explore and amplify the voices of women in this often marginalized and misunderstood field … On the horizon is Girl Lost 3 and another movie with a similar subject matter to Girls on Film.
Which aspect of your work makes you most proud? Can you explain or give a story?
I take immense pride in the profound impact that Girl Lost and Girl Lost: A Hollywood Story have had on women who have reached out to share their own stories of resilience in the face of sex trafficking or their experiences in the sex industry. Knowing that the stories portrayed resonated with and touched the lives of others, fostering a sense of solidarity and empowerment, is an accomplishment that I hold close to my heart.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
- You’re in this for the long haul: Success in the film industry is often a marathon, not a sprint. Overnight success is a rarity, and it may take a couple of decades of hard work, persistence and learning from experiences to see significant results. Embrace the journey and stay committed to your long-term goals. Truth be told, over more than two decades, I dedicated thousands upon thousands of hours, navigating through very few highs, but many, many lows, to painstakingly carve out the position I currently hold as a filmmaker.
- Be careful who you trust and work with: A dazzling resume doesn’t always guarantee a trustworthy collaborator. Surround yourself with people who genuinely have your best interests at heart. Building a reliable network is crucial and choosing your collaborators wisely can greatly impact your career trajectory. Without naming names, I’ve encountered some highly prominent figures in the film industry who made lofty promises, none of which materialized. Through these experiences, I’ve learned to rely on my own abilities, recognizing that there is no golden ticket in this industry.
- Patience is key: Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither is a successful film career. Take the time to learn every aspect of the industry, work your way up and be patient with your progress. No one is going to hand you success on a silver platter. You need to earn it through dedication and hard work. I harbored a desire to be in charge, yet I wasn’t genuinely prepared for a leadership role until I had paid my dues and acquired a comprehensive understanding of the industry from the ground up. This emphasis on doing the work and gaining hands-on experience is paramount — put in the effort and success will follow.
- Don’t accept every job offered: It’s tempting to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way, but it’s essential to evaluate whether each job aligns with your career goals. Quality is often more important than quantity. Saying no to projects that don’t resonate with your vision can open doors to opportunities that are a better fit for your long-term aspirations. I’ve accepted jobs in the past that I now regret because of my eagerness to work. It’s crucial to look ahead, envision where you want to be and honestly assess whether taking a questionable job aligns with your future goals.
- Don’t do this for the money: The film industry is driven by passion and creativity. While financial success is a goal, it’s crucial to love what you do. The reality is that the monetary rewards may not be as immediate or substantial as one might think. Focus on the joy and fulfillment that come from creating meaningful stories and building a career based on your passion for the craft. As an independent filmmaker in 2023, the financial rewards may not be as substantial as one might assume. Having a genuine passion for your work is imperative, transforming the effort into a pursuit that doesn’t feel like work. It’s about doing what you love.
When you create a film, which stakeholders have the greatest impact on the artistic and cinematic choices you make? Is it the viewers, the critics, the financiers or your own personal artistic vision? Can you share a story with us or give an example about what you mean?
My own personal artistic vision holds the greatest impact on all of my artistic and cinematic choices. I am truly an independent filmmaker. I write, direct, edit, produce and sometimes run the camera on all of my films. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I don’t like a lot of noise, I keep my crews very small and tight and I am very particular about the people I hire.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
Having become a foster parent for abused and neglected children in California about a year ago, my personal journey has been deeply transformative. Witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by children in the foster care system has fueled my passion for encouraging people with virtuous intentions to consider fostering. In California alone, over 60,000 children enter the foster care system annually, emphasizing the pressing need for more loving homes. By sharing my story and the stark facts about the number of children in need, I could only hope to start a movement and inspire others to embark on their own journey as foster parents.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the U.S. whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might see this. :-)
I embrace a lone wolf mentality in my professional life, prioritizing self-reliance and focus and I find solace and fulfillment in spending private breakfasts or lunches exclusively with my family and close friends. The bonds with my loved ones are invaluable, providing me with the support and balance needed to navigate the challenges of my career.
How can our readers further follow you online?
https://www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_movie
https://www.instagram.com/robinbain_official
This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
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.
