Welcome to another addition to our mini-series, let’s dive in. PaSH is centered around sharing inspiring stories, breaking down stereotypes, and sharing the authentic, behind-the-scenes moments that make entrepreneurs so amazing. Let’s dive into, ““From Health Scare to Hollywood: How Lania Kayell is Redefining Film Production”.
Meet Lania Kayell
Multi genre film Producer Lania Kayell is known for her impressive work across television, digital media and film. With a keen eye for creative content that resonates, Lania has been instrumental in steering crowdfunding campaigns, casting ideal talent, and developing projects from conception through to post-production. Her recent projects include ‘The Dead Place’, an independent horror feature film that raised over $60,000 in crowdfunding, and ‘We Got Ours’, a comedy short featuring comedy legends, which is already being accepted into many prominent film festivals. Both films showcase Lania’s ability to marshal resources and rally support for a diverse range of content, as well as her skill set in bringing visionary projects to life. She finds deep joy in not only completing a project, but also, seeing its profound impact on viewers. This is truly what fuels her work. More details on Lania are here: Lania Kayell – IMDb
What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned since starting your business?
There really is an opportunity for mutual advancement. If you have the right creative team and willingness to explore different areas of film production, it is possible to advance into your desired role/position -regardless of your background or relationships.
What’s the craziest idea you’ve ever had for your business that worked?
I would say getting creative when it comes to traditional outreach. We had an amazing street team for a film I helped produce, and we needed a marketing strategy. We agreed on a common theme that involved wearing a Red Hoodie to represent a highly anticipated character in the film. We were able to fund our film through this process, and still so many of our wonderful supporters send us images of them wearing their Red Hoodies.
What’s one stereotype about entrepreneurs that you’d love to break?
I really thought that it was too late for me to join the film industry. I thought I was too old. I am so glad that I was wrong!
What’s one piece of advice you wish you could give your younger self before starting this journey?
I would tell myself that I can show how passionate I am about something without over doing it. Having a love for something does not have to mean that every step must be a challenge. It also does not mean that I have to ignore my limitations to compensate for areas I feel I may be lacking.
How do you keep your creativity flowing when motivation is low?
I like to network, and sometimes, look back on previous works. I also like to leave the city for the day or visit a museum.
What’s one misconception people have about your industry that drives you crazy?
We are only in it for the fame.
Can you share the story behind starting your business and what inspired you to take the leap?
I had a health scare that ultimately led me to spend more time doing things that I enjoy. I realized that I wanted to find creative ways to express myself. I wanted to build a portfolio. Supporting this hobby got really exhausting and expensive, as I was a one-person crew. So, I sought out opportunities where I could volunteer so as to start building a portfolio with professional photos and other content. I answered an ad to model with skateboards. I am not a model, nor have I ever been on a skateboard. I took the leap and showed up to what turned out to be the production of a short film. I had not really acted before, but when I left the set. I knew this was an industry in which I wanted to participate.
How do you handle competition, and what sets your business apart from others in your field?
I see it more as motivation. I am a multi genre producer that has had many opportunities to produce films and tv series. I’m used to working with other producers. I learn from them. I find ways to better myself and determine what departments where my skillset could apply.
Can you discuss any partnerships or collaborations that have particularly impacted your business?
Collaborating on the horror slasher feature film, The Dead Place, was my first produced film. This film has a cast with horror legends and a very talented crew. This project positively impacted my position as a film producer.
What is one lesson you’ve learned through your entrepreneurial journey that you think everyone should know?
I think that if you love what you do that will show in your attitude and your work. It is not really something that can be taught, but it can leave a lasting impression with creatives and consumers that will more than likely continue engagement with your work.
Thank you for reading, “From Health Scare to Hollywood: How Lania Kayell is Redefining Film Production”, part of our mini-series. To read more amazing Q & A’s click here or check back next month.
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