Meet Laura Medeiros | Film Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laura Medeiros and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
As a film producer, I firmly believe that embracing risks is crucial, especially when entering the industry. Personally, I consider it pivotal to have the courage to showcase your work. In the highly competitive film industry, gaining any form of recognition is essential to stand out. Regrettably, I observe many young filmmakers hesitating to share their creations at film festivals due to a lack of confidence in their work’s quality.

From my perspective, irrespective of your film’s quality, it’s imperative to expose your work to the world. Nothing is more disheartening than witnessing a film remain unseen and unshared. By presenting your work, you not only open yourself to criticism but also learn how to navigate it and improve for future projects. If you avoid taking the risk of putting your work out there, you’ll never truly understand your value. More importantly, reserving your first festival circuit for a bigger or more expensive film might not yield the desired results.

It’s wiser to learn the ropes with your initial lower-budget film rather than saving the experience for more significant projects. Therefore, do not be afraid to expose yourself and your work—the learning value is very rewarding.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a Los Angeles-based film producer, and despite being relatively young in the industry, I’ve managed to create projects that are making waves in various festivals. One of my proudest accomplishments is the micro short thriller film “Good Times/Bad Times,” which I not only produced but also wrote and directed. This 3-minute film was crafted with a budget of under $1,000 and involved a concise cast and crew of 10 people. The film has been selected for over 9 festivals across the USA (so far), earning awards nominations and serving as a testament to the idea that leaving a mark doesn’t require massive budgets but rather good ideas and a supportive team.

Navigating this industry is not for the faint of heart; it demands perseverance and willpower. Believing in your work and yourself while not allowing rejection and criticism to bring you down is crucial. I’ve learned to channel negative feedback into a learning experience, turning mistakes into opportunities for growth. This approach has allowed me to propel more projects into the spotlight, and I firmly believe that not being afraid to fail is a key ingredient to success.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with practicality in my work. My passion for writing greatly influences my role as a producer, enabling me to make creative choices that stay within budget and adhere to schedules without compromising artistic integrity. I firmly believe that a great producer should also be a great storyteller, and I take pride in being both. My unique approach has contributed to my success and continues to drive my commitment to delivering impactful stories to audiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The first stop on our adventure would undoubtedly be the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. It’s the perfect introduction to the dynamic and vibrant essence of Los Angeles, showcasing so many colors and an infectious energy that permeates the city. Walking along the boulevard, my friends would experience the real, wild, and thrilling side of LA.

Next on the agenda is a visit to the Griffith Observatory to witness the breathtaking sunset over the city. This panoramic view provides a sense of the vast expanse of Los Angeles, allowing my friends to grasp the sheer magnitude of this metropolis while reveling in its glory.

A trip to Santa Monica Pier follows, where the evening comes alive with the enchanting lights of the Ferris wheel. Ideally, a classic Lakers game at Crypto.com arena would follow (if we beat the traffic in time, of course hahaha).

Brunch or lunch in Pasadena is a non-negotiable, offering a delightful culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed – my personal favorite restaurant is Craft by Smoke and Fire. Following this, a classic studio tour becomes a must-do activity; after all, we are in the heart of the cinematic world, and exploring the studios is an essential part of the LA experience.

Then, day at Huntington Beach becomes a highlight, as it happens to be my personal favorite beach. I love its laid-back vibes.

In addition to these well-known spots, I’d love to unveil some hidden gems to my friends, such as the Huntington Library, with its tranquil gardens and impressive collections. A stroll through Downtown Burbank offers a different perspective, showcasing a blend of historic charm and modern flair.

If our visit coincides with the Halloween season, a thrilling adventure awaits at the Haunted Hayride. As a self-proclaimed horror movie enthusiast, I find the haunted mazes during September/October particularly exhilarating, and I’m eager to share this spooky excitement with my friends.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
“I owe much of my current standing in the film industry to the support of my filmmaker friends and fellow producers, Radhika Bansal, Balint Banner, Paloma Quintanal, and Sebastian Berenguer. Our journey began in film school, and their companionship has played a pivotal role in shaping my career. Collaborating with them is not just a professional joy but allows us to bring great stories to life together.

In addition, my gratitude goes to Guile Branco, Sabrina Percario, and Raja Deka—remarkable producers/actors with whom I’ve had the privilege of working with. Their generosity in providing me the opportunity to contribute to my first feature film, “A Prodigal Feast,” has been instrumental in propelling my career forward. The film recently premiered at the esteemed American Film Market, marking a significant milestone in my journey. “

Website: https://demedeiroslaura98.wixsite.com/laura-medeiros-produ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producedby_medeiros/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-medeiros98/

Image Credits
– California Women’s Film Festival – Glendale International Film Festival – The Valley Film Festival