Creating Film Industry Events That Help Attendees Move Their Careers Forward by MixKnowledgy Event Producer Erman Baradi
Film Courage: How did you become an industry event producer?
Erman Baradi: I interned in West Hollywood back in 2012 and when I got back home to the east coast I knew I had to keep the momentum going. So, I used social media to capture the attention of those who lived in NYC and LA and created a name that made it seem like I was LA-based: @Erman_LA. I started getting contacted to do industry odd jobs, some relating to events and rounding up industry pros. This was a launching pad for me to start serious networking. Years go by and I start taking my writing more seriously. I’m still trying to find representation myself. I started producing Hollywood events as an excuse to be in LA and to network with industry execs without looking like a desperate writer. Producing events has been my way of getting on their radars. Fortunately, I’ve received testimonials from attendees and speakers who’ve connected with new faces through my events.
Film Courage: How much time goes into every event that you produce?
Erman: I like having a set goal each period of time. Once one event ends I think of the next one, which could be 5–6 months later. It keeps me driven and occupied. You don’t want to burn yourself out but it’s smart to start working on your next one because you have the tremendous lineup from the previous event to use as leverage for the next lineup. If I had Star Wars: The Force Awakens exec producer Tommy Harper and someone like Marci Liroff who cast classics like Indiana Jones and Poltergeist and a manager like Carol Bodie who reps Ruby Rose, who wouldn’t want to be on my next event?
