Access Granted: Stephanie Okereke on the Making of "Through the Glass" Film
Access Granted: Stephanie Okereke on the Making of "Through the Glass" Film
LADYBRILLE.com: There has been a lot of excitement lately since your release of "Through the Glass" trailer and website on September 18th, 2008. What's your reaction to the buzz? Stephanie: I am very excited and overwhelmed! I was a bit nervous but people’s reactions made me realize that I was not crazy in [attempting to make the movie] in the first place.
LADYBRILLE.com: Making a film is so difficult, especially in Hollywood. In fact, lots of times, Blacks/African filmmakers in Hollywood give up. You just got here! What made you decide to write, produce and direct a movie? Stephanie: I wanted to do something different and I have been writing from when I was little. [I believe] nothing is too difficult. It depends on how much you want it. I was at a stage in my career that I needed to do something unexpected to get to the next level.
LADYBRILLE.com: It is unexpected quite alright. I am still processing your bold move. Were you concerned about "what sells?" in Hollywood in making your movie? Stephanie: Not exactly. I was just trying to express myself. But, I knew for sure that a good story and performance will always make a movie sell.
LADYBRILLE.com: Why the film "Through the Glass"? What was your vision? Stephanie: I have been through difficult times in my life. I just wanted to let people know that you can go through difficult situations and still come out of it gracefully without losing yourself or your selfworth. I guess I was going “through the glass” myself and I just came with a story not in anyway related to me but about someone who finds himself in a situation he thought he will never be; and that journey changes his life and opens his eyes to the things that matters most to him.
LADYBRILLE.com: What was the development process for you? Stephanie: The actual thought of it, doing it and seeing it come to light.
LADYBRILLE.com: One of the questions your fans want to know is how to categorize "Through the Glass?" Is it Indie? Nollywood? American? Stephanie: I heard people trying to figure out if it is a Nollywood and Hollywood film. Why the argument? It’s a collaborative work that can sell in both markets. Myself as a Nollywood face gives it all the attributes of a Nollywood film. What we are looking for are various ways to reach a broader audience and create room to do collaborative work with other film industries be it Bollywood or Hollywood. Bollywood got more international raves because of their collaborative work with Hollywood.
Must we continue to make films for just ourselves or do we want other people to know about our culture and way of life? Hollywood does it all the time so must Nollywood make movies only for Nollywood? Then why do we watch American Movies and why is Hollywood a yardstick for measuring the degree of success in the film industry? Is it not the height to attain? In terms of production, yes you can say it is an independent movie. I made this movie to have a broader audience and also to tastefully present the Nigerian as person/persons with class and culture. Not one in a foreign land who engages in various negative activities as we are [of late] often stereotyped to be.
LADYBRILLE.com: The trailer opens to a song I think most Africans, especially Nigerians, will know and that is rapper Ikechukwu's "Wind am Well." [Ikechukwu is an artist with the label Storm Records in Nigeria and World Famous Academy]. What were you going for with your music selections? Stephanie: Africa and Nigeria’s music industry, specifically, has done tremendously well and I am really proud of our entire Nigerian artists. So I thought of incorporating the Nigerian music with the film to give it a Nigerian favor and also it helps them as artists to have their music as a score in a movie. Ikechukwu’s song goes with the theme of the movie that is why I chose it. I also used [rapper] Rugged man and Chioma Okereke’s [upcoming musician, very talented] songs. They are all very talented artists.
LADYBRILLE.com: In the trailer, there is a scene where you seem to be introducing to the lead male character, your native food, "pounded yam and egusi." What was going through your mind in writing that scene and why did you feel the need to add that scene? Stephanie: It was an opportunity to showcase one of our major delicacies to the world. People here always ask me what kind of food we eat, so I felt it was necessary to let them know that there is a Nigerian food called “Egusi and Pounded yam."
LADYBRILLE.com: [laughs] The food looked delicious, did you make it? Stephanie: [Laughs] Yes I did, in the middle of the night. It wasn’t funny but it tasted good. At the end of the day, Jeffery [Garrett] in the movie actually finished it. He liked it a lot, not only in the movie.
LADYBRILLE.com: [laughs] How spicy was it? I hope he doesn't die in the movie. [laughs] Stephanie: [Laughs] Jeffery [Garrett] was amazing. He actually told me he wouldn’t taste the food until I say action in order to give a true reaction, which he did. He survived the spicy side. He loved it. I had to beg him not to finish the food during the shoot. [Switching to pidgin] But I no make am too spicy before oyibo go die for my set. [laughs] {translates to, but I did not make it too spicy so the white man does not die on my set}.
LADYBRILLE.com: When producing an independent film, lots of producers/filmmakers in Hollywood with limited budgets think they can't go too far. So, they typically ask their friends and family members to be in their movies. You did a casting call for all of these characters. How did you manage to convince mostly non-African Hollywood actors, with a limited budget, to be a part of the movie of an African Actress who just got to Hollywood? Stephanie: Pre-production is key when setting out to shoot a movie. Also, it was a privilege for them to work with a famous African actress and I was happy to share my experiences with them, now they all want to come to Nigeria!
LADYBRILLE.com: Did you face any challenges directing "Through the Glass?" Stephanie: Oh yes! Thinking of doing it was enough challenge. I was [so] humbled by the experience because you are thinking about everything, making sure that everything goes according to plan. The fact that I was producing didn’t make it any easier. I was hoping not to go over budget and if I do, how to resolve it, my next shot, lots of things to worry about, unlike when you’re just acting. . .
LADYBRILLE.com: Sound and lighting is a big thing, which makes a lot of movies, especially those attempted by Nollywood directors /producers lose credibility. The sound, lighting and overall quality looks good. How did you manage to get over the challenge of sound and lighting? Stephanie: It was just a sheer determination to do the best I can making sure that I at least set a certain kind of standard, which if I get to do another film, it would be so much better than my first.
LADYBRILLE.com: Give us an idea of your planned distribution mode for "Through the Glass," especially in the Western markets? Stephanie: I have a lot of distribution offers from Asia, America, Nigeria and Europe. I am in talks with them trying to decide what works best.
LADYBRILLE.com: What were your expectations going into producing and directing "Through the Glass" and what was the actual reality? Stephanie: I just hoped it will get to be something different and that people would love it and am happy it is looking like it will turn out that way.
LADYBRILLE.com: Sometimes, we learn more from our mistakes than if we get it perfectly the first time. Give us some screw up moments in making “Through the Glass." Stephanie: I first casted fourteen months twins for the baby role because I was finding it difficult to get a baby that was one or two months old. So, every time I say “Action” the baby crawls out of my shots or starts playing with the camera. It was pretty frustrating. I knew I had to find another baby before I loose my mind then Cheyenne came along . . . Another moment was trying to cast a guy that couldn’t get his lines after some many takes. I had to recast, so many other [moments]. [laughs]
LADYBRILLE.COM: What's the message of your movie? Stephanie: it’s about love and acceptance, commitment and being responsible. It is also about parents’ relationships with their children and the need to always give a word of encouragement to your child; because it goes a long way to develop their psychological state.
LADYBRILLE.com: Too many times in a male dominated industry, women really want to be so different to play or hang with the fellas. But, how do women, you for example, embrace your femininity, knowing that you are not necessarily trying to prove anything, yet still make waves, the way it is looking like you are with "Through the Glass?" Stephanie: I just do what I know how to do. Being fulfilled for myself is all that matters. I think a lot of women should take themselves more seriously and do thing that makes them happy not always trying to prove something to the male. Knowing your worth determines how far you can go, be it a man or a woman.
"Through the Glass" premieres at the Pacific Design Center on Melrose Avenue on October 18th, 2008. It is followed by a red carpet VIP party in Beverly Hills. For more information and to purchase ticktes, visit www.throughtheglassmovie.com.
[Ladybrille is official media sponsor for Through the Glass.]
Access Granted Stephanie Okereke on the Making of Through the Glass Film - To learn more about this author, visit Uduak Oduok's Website.
Like this article? Share it with your friends
LADYBRILLE.com: Stephanie, how are you? Stephanie: I am fine!
LADYBRILLE.com: There has been a lot of excitement lately since your release of "Through the Glass" trailer and website on September 18th, 2008. What's your reaction to the buzz? Stephanie: I am very excited and overwhelmed! I was a bit nervous but people’s reactions made me realize that I was not crazy in [attempting to make the movie] in the first place.
LADYBRILLE.com: Making a film is so difficult, especially in Hollywood. In fact, lots of times, Blacks/African filmmakers in Hollywood give up. You just got here! What made you decide to write, produce and direct a movie? Stephanie: I wanted to do something different and I have been writing from when I was little. [I believe] nothing is too difficult. It depends on how much you want it. I was at a stage in my career that I needed to do something unexpected to get to the next level.
LADYBRILLE.com: It is unexpected quite alright. I am still processing your bold move. Were you concerned about "what sells?" in Hollywood in making your movie? Stephanie: Not exactly. I was just trying to express myself. But, I knew for sure that a good story and performance will always make a movie sell.
LADYBRILLE.com: Why the film "Through the Glass"? What was your vision? Stephanie: I have been through difficult times in my life. I just wanted to let people know that you can go through difficult situations and still come out of it gracefully without losing yourself or your selfworth. I guess I was going “through the glass” myself and I just came with a story not in anyway related to me but about someone who finds himself in a situation he thought he will never be; and that journey changes his life and opens his eyes to the things that matters most to him.
LADYBRILLE.com: What was the development process for you? Stephanie: The actual thought of it, doing it and seeing it come to light.
LADYBRILLE.com: One of the questions your fans want to know is how to categorize "Through the Glass?" Is it Indie? Nollywood? American? Stephanie: I heard people trying to figure out if it is a Nollywood and Hollywood film. Why the argument? It’s a collaborative work that can sell in both markets. Myself as a Nollywood face gives it all the attributes of a Nollywood film. What we are looking for are various ways to reach a broader audience and create room to do collaborative work with other film industries be it Bollywood or Hollywood. Bollywood got more international raves because of their collaborative work with Hollywood.
Must we continue to make films for just ourselves or do we want other people to know about our culture and way of life? Hollywood does it all the time so must Nollywood make movies only for Nollywood? Then why do we watch American Movies and why is Hollywood a yardstick for measuring the degree of success in the film industry? Is it not the height to attain? In terms of production, yes you can say it is an independent movie. I made this movie to have a broader audience and also to tastefully present the Nigerian as person/persons with class and culture. Not one in a foreign land who engages in various negative activities as we are [of late] often stereotyped to be.
LADYBRILLE.com: The trailer opens to a song I think most Africans, especially Nigerians, will know and that is rapper Ikechukwu's "Wind am Well." [Ikechukwu is an artist with the label Storm Records in Nigeria and World Famous Academy]. What were you going for with your music selections? Stephanie: Africa and Nigeria’s music industry, specifically, has done tremendously well and I am really proud of our entire Nigerian artists. So I thought of incorporating the Nigerian music with the film to give it a Nigerian favor and also it helps them as artists to have their music as a score in a movie. Ikechukwu’s song goes with the theme of the movie that is why I chose it. I also used [rapper] Rugged man and Chioma Okereke’s [upcoming musician, very talented] songs. They are all very talented artists.
LADYBRILLE.com: In the trailer, there is a scene where you seem to be introducing to the lead male character, your native food, "pounded yam and egusi." What was going through your mind in writing that scene and why did you feel the need to add that scene? Stephanie: It was an opportunity to showcase one of our major delicacies to the world. People here always ask me what kind of food we eat, so I felt it was necessary to let them know that there is a Nigerian food called “Egusi and Pounded yam."
LADYBRILLE.com: [laughs] The food looked delicious, did you make it? Stephanie: [Laughs] Yes I did, in the middle of the night. It wasn’t funny but it tasted good. At the end of the day, Jeffery [Garrett] in the movie actually finished it. He liked it a lot, not only in the movie.
LADYBRILLE.com: [laughs] How spicy was it? I hope he doesn't die in the movie. [laughs] Stephanie: [Laughs] Jeffery [Garrett] was amazing. He actually told me he wouldn’t taste the food until I say action in order to give a true reaction, which he did. He survived the spicy side. He loved it. I had to beg him not to finish the food during the shoot. [Switching to pidgin] But I no make am too spicy before oyibo go die for my set. [laughs] {translates to, but I did not make it too spicy so the white man does not die on my set}.
LADYBRILLE.com: When producing an independent film, lots of producers/filmmakers in Hollywood with limited budgets think they can't go too far. So, they typically ask their friends and family members to be in their movies. You did a casting call for all of these characters. How did you manage to convince mostly non-African Hollywood actors, with a limited budget, to be a part of the movie of an African Actress who just got to Hollywood? Stephanie: Pre-production is key when setting out to shoot a movie. Also, it was a privilege for them to work with a famous African actress and I was happy to share my experiences with them, now they all want to come to Nigeria!
LADYBRILLE.com: Did you face any challenges directing "Through the Glass?" Stephanie: Oh yes! Thinking of doing it was enough challenge. I was [so] humbled by the experience because you are thinking about everything, making sure that everything goes according to plan. The fact that I was producing didn’t make it any easier. I was hoping not to go over budget and if I do, how to resolve it, my next shot, lots of things to worry about, unlike when you’re just acting. . .
LADYBRILLE.com: Sound and lighting is a big thing, which makes a lot of movies, especially those attempted by Nollywood directors /producers lose credibility. The sound, lighting and overall quality looks good. How did you manage to get over the challenge of sound and lighting? Stephanie: It was just a sheer determination to do the best I can making sure that I at least set a certain kind of standard, which if I get to do another film, it would be so much better than my first.
LADYBRILLE.com: Give us an idea of your planned distribution mode for "Through the Glass," especially in the Western markets? Stephanie: I have a lot of distribution offers from Asia, America, Nigeria and Europe. I am in talks with them trying to decide what works best.
LADYBRILLE.com: What were your expectations going into producing and directing "Through the Glass" and what was the actual reality? Stephanie: I just hoped it will get to be something different and that people would love it and am happy it is looking like it will turn out that way.
LADYBRILLE.com: Sometimes, we learn more from our mistakes than if we get it perfectly the first time. Give us some screw up moments in making “Through the Glass." Stephanie: I first casted fourteen months twins for the baby role because I was finding it difficult to get a baby that was one or two months old. So, every time I say “Action” the baby crawls out of my shots or starts playing with the camera. It was pretty frustrating. I knew I had to find another baby before I loose my mind then Cheyenne came along . . . Another moment was trying to cast a guy that couldn’t get his lines after some many takes. I had to recast, so many other [moments]. [laughs]
LADYBRILLE.COM: What's the message of your movie? Stephanie: it’s about love and acceptance, commitment and being responsible. It is also about parents’ relationships with their children and the need to always give a word of encouragement to your child; because it goes a long way to develop their psychological state.
LADYBRILLE.com: Too many times in a male dominated industry, women really want to be so different to play or hang with the fellas. But, how do women, you for example, embrace your femininity, knowing that you are not necessarily trying to prove anything, yet still make waves, the way it is looking like you are with "Through the Glass?" Stephanie: I just do what I know how to do. Being fulfilled for myself is all that matters. I think a lot of women should take themselves more seriously and do thing that makes them happy not always trying to prove something to the male. Knowing your worth determines how far you can go, be it a man or a woman.
"Through the Glass" premieres at the Pacific Design Center on Melrose Avenue on October 18th, 2008. It is followed by a red carpet VIP party in Beverly Hills. For more information and to purchase ticktes, visit www.throughtheglassmovie.com.
[Ladybrille is official media sponsor for Through the Glass.]
Access Granted Stephanie Okereke on the Making of Through the Glass Film - To learn more about this author, visit Uduak Oduok's Website.
Like this article? Share it with your friends
 | |
 |
No article feedback found. |
| |
Leave Your Feedback |
 | |
| |||
Stephanie RobeyStephanie Robey is President and CoFounder of Pivot Positive, LLC - an Internet marketing business focused on helping people start work at home ventures. Previously, she was employed at The Search Agency with over 20 years experience in graphic design and 10 years experience in online marketing. She was responsible for launching the Conversion Path Optimization (CPO) unit where she and her team have conducted hundreds of optimization tests for online companies across multiple verticals. She is a successful entrepreneur having started and sold 2 companies and remains on the board of directors of the third, PhotoSpin.com Stephanie began her career in the direct marketing realm creating and producing direct mail for many of the major cable television companies and directly attributes her understanding of Internet marketing to those early offline experiences. Stephanie is a graduate of San Diego State University with a BFA in Graphic Arts and also holds an Executive MBA from the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University. Read Steph's Blog Meet Steph and Dave Sign up for our Free 7-Day BootCamp: Self Employed & Rich - Visit Stephanie Robey's Website |
|||
Jay Kubassek(Jay's Full Bio: EvanCarmichael.com/jaykubassek) In five years, Canadian-born entrepreneur Jay Kubassek went from selling mufflers at a Midas franchise to revolutionizing Internet marketing with the 2004 launch of CarbonCopyPRO, a online marketing education company, now worth over $20 million with customers in over 160 countries.
As an independent film producer, his upstart film fund Aliquot Films is currently producing a films with Spike Lee and Abel Fererra (starring Ethan Hawke and Dennis Hopper.)
Jay's entrepreneurial spirit is irrepressible. He’s the owner of five companies, a professional speaker and trainer, international real estate developer/investor, extreme sport enthusiast and emerging philanthropist. Jay resides in NYC with his wife Jamie, son Milo and dog Cooper. Visit Jay's official website: www.JayKubassek.com - Visit Jay Kubassek's Website |
|||
Leanne Hoagland-SmithAre your sales where you want them to be? Will you be one of the few who achieves sales or business success or one of the many who have failed to change? Are you tired of being told you are like everyone else? Then you may find my first book on sales of interest. Be the Red Jacket in the Sea of Gray Suits, The Keys to Unlocking Sales available at Amazon or at http://www.processspecialist.com/red-jacket.htm. This book is a reflection of my no-nonsense approach to improving sales to overall business results. If you are truly committed to making sustainable changes, then I can help you secure a positive return on your investment because I focus on executable solutions not telling you the problems you already know you have. From training to corporate (group) coaching to executive one on one coaching, my approach is to assess, create awareness, build a goal driven action plan and then execute. The bottom line question is "Not do you or your employees know it, but do you or they want to do it?" Please call for a free strategy session at 219.759.5601. - Visit Leanne Hoagland-Smith's Website |
|||
Cheryl MatthynssensCheryl is a life skills coach, licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a 20 year entrepreneur. Cheryl's dedication to achieving a life of balance led to her expanding her teaching from the simple managing of life's daily challenges to adding financial well being as well. A direct marketer with DrinkACT, she is gaining ground in the online community with her concepts of making sure business owners, entreprenuers and employees have well rounded life styles. She opened up a small affiliate site - The Balance Guide- to help others find resources for mental and emotional well being. Visit Cheryl's blog to see more of the diversity beyond business she has began offering online at www.thebalanceguide.blogspot.com - Visit Cheryl Matthynssens's Website |
|||
David AchesonDavid Acheson is the founder of DCJA Consultancy. DCJA Consultancy is a management consultancy business specialising in B2B sales consultancy. They offer bespoke and packaged sales consultancy including Sales Optimisation Review, Interim Sales Management, Sales & Marketing Review, 1:1 Sales & Management Staff Analysis, Management Training, Solution Sales Training, Creation of New Pay Plan, KPI's, run Customer Feedback Campaigns, assist with Recruitment, Coaching, Appraisals and set up Strategic Marketing Campaigns. David spent his early career in accountancy and then moved into sales in 1982, working in Office Equipment, IT, Advertising, Training, Outsourcing and Consultancy. He has held many Senior Positions in SMBs and Global Organisations including Head of Sales Operations & Head of Business Development. His knowledge, skills and great experience of the Sales Industry has led to David making keynote speeches and running educational sessions to key businesses through organisations including The Chamber of Commerce and Business Link. - Visit David Acheson's Website |
|||
Linda RichardsonLinda Richardson is the Founder and Executive Chairwoman of Richardson, a global sales training and performance improvement company. As a recognized leader in the industry, she has won the coveted Stevie Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sales Excellence and she was identified by Training Industry, Inc. as one of the “Top 20 Most Influential Training Professionals.” Ms. Richardson is credited with the movement to Consultative Selling and is the author of ten books on selling and sales management, including Sales Coaching — Making the Great Leap from Sales Manager to Sales Coach, and Stop Telling, Start Selling. She teaches sales and management at the Wharton Graduate School of the University of Pennsylvania and the Wharton Executive Development Center. Linda is a frequent speaker at industry and client conferences, has been published extensively in industry and training journals, and has been featured in numerous publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Nation’s Business, Selling Power, Success, and The Conference Board Magazine. Learn more about Richardson's sales training and performance improvement solutions at http://www.richardson.com web - Visit Linda Richardson's Website |
|||
|
To learn more about the Evan Elite Author Program please contact us. | |||
 | |
|  |
Subscribe to Uduak's articles
 | |
|
|  |
 | |
|
| |
 | |||||||
|
 | ||
 |
||
 |
||
 |
||
|
| ||
 |
| Have you written articles that would be of value to entrepreneurs? Become an expert on our site by publishing them! Expose yourself to a wide audience, drive more traffic to your website and get more sales! Click Here for details. |
|
|
 |
| Modeling the Masters: Learn the true secrets behind Walt Disney's business success factors & grow your company! Video produced by Phanta Media |
|
|
 |
"Learn straight from Evan how you can Make a Full Time Income (And More) from a Website"
Click Here To Learn More |
|
|
|
|
Get advice & tips from famous business owners, new articles by entrepreneur experts, my latest website updates, & special sneak peaks at what's to come!
|
|
|
 Improve Web Site Conversions The Flowing Point 5 Step Action Plan Entrepreneurship Or Job? TeleSeminar Etiquette |
|
 | ||
 |
Top 50 Niche Blogs 2009
Top 50 Niche Blogs 2009 | |
 |
Top 50 Productivity Blogs
Top Blogs To Watch In 2009 | |
| ||
 | ||||
| ||||
|
| ||||
| ||||
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||
|
Email us your ideas on how to make our website more valuable! Thank you Sharon from Toronto Salsa Lessons / Classes for your suggestions to make the newsletter look like the website and profile younger entrepreneurs like Jennifer Lopez and Sean Combs!
|
|
|
