WNW Celebrates Women in Film
WORKING NOT WORKING
Last Wednesday, we hosted a special sold-out event in the center of Hollywood. Held at Black Rabbit Rose, whose magic extends beyond their renowned magic shows, the event brought four truly incredible women together on a panel to discuss the current state and future possibilities of women in film. Erika Olde, the Founder of Black Bicycle Entertainment, Montea Robinson, the Managing Director of Ghetto Film School, and Oscar-nominated director Jessica Sanders all brought their unique perspectives to the conversation, moderated by filmmaker Ondi Timoner, who holds the rare distinction of winning Sundance's Grand Jury Prize twice. At the conclusion of the panel, performing artist Bayli delivered an intimate and inspiring solo set.
After partaking in an assortment of Thai dishes and Black Rabbit Rose's signature alcoholic concoctions, we gathered into a cozy space for the main event. During the free-flowing conversation, the panelists discussed some of their frustrations on both personal and industrial scales. Some noted how problematic it is that they're often referred to with unnecessary qualifiers like "women directors" and regularly feel like the only woman in the room on their respective projects. It takes bravery to do what they do.
But there was also a conscious effort to recognize a lot of the positivity going on in projects not just celebrating the underrepresented but created by them. The audience responded to the camaraderie in the panelists' shared experience. Perhaps the biggest takeaway was that these four resourceful women on stage are pursuing their passion and enabling others' passion regardless of the struggle. And when given the opportunity to hear what they have to say, you'll want to support their vision. They're ready to support yours too. While discussing how each of them navigated their crafts to discover their voice, Erika Olde stressed that it's important to find your personal voice because people will respond to that authenticity. Ondi Timoner built on that thought, suggesting a method for uncovering what you really care about. "Look for what's missing, in pop culture and in the conversation. You found it because you feel it."
It was great to see so many attendees stick around the venue for hours afterward to keep the dialogue going. Shout-out to our sponsors Moviepass and Main & Rose for helping to make this inspiring event happen. And thanks to photographer Nick Cruz for capturing the evening. Stay tuned for more WNW events in Hollywood.
Bayli
Ondi Timoner
