Industry Women

When we discuss the entertainment industry, rarely do we acknowledge the remarkable achievements of those women in the office, on set, and running about, who are often overshadowed for the production's good.

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One of the essential things about producing films and television or other entertainment types is that there are no unimportant steps. It is an arena where a range of people is fighting for attention, and everything is an emergency requiring immediate attention.

Some problems are easy to solve, while others are more delicate and require a skilled diplomat to handle. Finding solutions to problems is only one part: you also have to stay on your many boss's good sides.

It's about keeping an eye on all the little details. And then, if you want some rest, well...there are other jobs out there!

After almost thirty years working in the industry, I have seen my share of crazy productions environments. The story, the stars, the sets, the locations, the seasons all change, but the problems stay the same! The budget, time, availability, relationships, and project delivery are all crucial.

From the beginning of my career, I have had the support of great women. I grew up in a matriarchal setting, so it was not surprising to see women leading. What soon became evident was that the actions of a female leader are under far more scrutiny than the ones of a male leader.

Men tend to follow their leader blindly. Women leaders, however, must learn to shield themselves from debates.

Despite the challenges women in this industry face, they tend to become more resilient and resourceful. In Montreal, the entertainment industry couldn't work without women's input in all production areas.

Worldwide we see a growing number of female directors, cinematographers, producers, agents, and more. I look forward to a day when the achievements of a woman won't be heralded because she's a woman but because she's simply an exceptional person.

Equality for everyone will never be achieved if you single out certain groups.

Acknowledging someone's achievements doesn't mean you are kissing ass. I don't respect my co-worker because she is a woman; instead, I respect her for her work, which we can all appreciate.

Over the years, I did witness an evolution in the mentality. I confess that I prefer working with women to men, and I realize that by saying that I am prejudiced. However, it illustrates the work we all have to do in our society toward favoritism and gender prejudices.