[Watch the video interview on YouTube here]
Film Courage: In 2012, you wrote an article for NYFA.edu [New York Film Academy] and you say,
“I don’t watch a movie with a notebook or a pen light. I go to the theater simply to be transported.”
How is this nowadays, when it’s become fashionable to be a Monday morning quarterback or critic?
Eric Conner, New York Film Academy Instructor/Podcaster/Writer/Filmmaker: You know, I think to that end, as you put it, Monday morning quarterback means what?
Well, it’s after the game, you’re home, and that’s okay.
I have no qualms with… well, I mean, some of Reddit is terrifying, but there’s also something to be said for passion, and how many shows, for instance, survived because of the passion of their fans.
The term like fan service comes up a lot, right?
The idea of like, are you pandering to your fans?
The truth is, if you’re making a big film, let’s say the Marvel films, Star Wars universe, whatever it may be, you’re going to have to get a lot of people to buy a lot of tickets because it costs a lot of money to make those films.
And so, for me, something I actually encourage my students, particularly if they’re newer, like if they weren’t really writing before, if they’re just trying this for the first time, I caution them maybe don’t be that guy.
When I say that guy, the dude in sort of like the comic book store guy in The Simpsons…(Watch the video interview on YouTube here).
About:
Eric Conner has taught hundreds of aspiring storytellers at the New York Film Academy (LA), the Writer’s Store, the Animation Guild and Starcoach – China. At NYFA, he’s interviewed dozens of entertainment professionals including Django Unchained producer Reginald Hudlin and John Wick director Chad Stahelski and wrote/hosted the podcast The Backlot.
He recently produced the feature length documentary Other Voices (Aswat Acherim), available on Amazon. His work has also been featured on the Howard Stern Show, On Demand Cable, Entertainment Tonight and Ranker.com. Eric has been a Burbank Cultural Arts Commissioner since being appointed by the City Council in 2019 and recently joined the board of the Burbank International Film Festival.
As a writer he’s adapted projects based on Knott’s Scary Farm and the NY Times bestseller Vampire Kisses. You may have seen Eric appear regularly on the Geekscape podcast, perform as plant victim Mr. Mushnik in Conundrum’s Little Shop of Horrors or share his true tale of being a woefully underprepared Santa Claus at JAM Creative’s Jingle Tales. He’s also worked with HollyShorts for several years as a film judge and moderated multiple panels / Q&As at their annual festival.
A rare native Delawarean, Eric lives in Burbank with his wife Lauren, sons Alex & Judah and their chaotic canines Fezzik and Iggy Pup.
CONNECT WITH ERIC CONNER
About New York Film Academy:
Founded in 1992 by Jerry Sherlock, the New York Film Academy (NYFA) provides an accessible, hands-on education in filmmaking, media, and the performing arts. With a mission to make the film industry more accessible to all, NYFA empowers students from diverse backgrounds to tell powerful stories through a project-based, immersive curriculum. Students work closely with industry professionals, gaining invaluable mentorship and real-world experience while building creative, technical, and collaborative skills. NYFA’s global community includes students from over 160 countries, fostering a network of passionate storytellers. From day one, students dive into creating projects that refine their craft and prepare them for successful careers. With a focus on practical experience and individualized support, NYFA equips students with the tools and confidence to excel in the competitive world of filmmaking and the arts.
CONNECT WITH NYFA
Nyfa.edu/location/nyfa-los-angeles
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