Meet Bea Cabrera | Producer

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

Hi Bea, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I didn’t. Not at first at least, After graduating I went on to pursuing an Engineering Degree. I was always told that, with my good grades and my interest for physics, it would be a waste not to try out “respected” and valued Telecommunications Degree. Truth is, at the time, these professional experts were in high demand. Smartphones were just coming out and the Internet of Things was going to take over the world in no time. So they were right, at the time.

I did what everybody told me to do. Yet I felt it didn’t come easy to me. It didn’t come natural, or entertaining. It didn’t spark my curiosity like dissecting a film, for example, does.

I needed something different. Art and editing was a passion of mine since very little. It was 1992. Though I was too young to hold a hefty camcorder on my own, I persuaded my dad to let me document our travels. The resulting video is unwatchable, yet that Sony handycam from the nineties marked my first encounter with cinema. An upgraded version would later on fall into my hands, and I’d discover the wonders of star transitions. Two VHS recorders and a jack to my parents’ mini casette player were my dreamt living-room-studio at 7. So I went onto earning a Graphic Design BFA and a Filmmaking MFA thanks to a Fulbright scholarship, and embarked on my professional journey as an editor and producer. Los Angeles’ film scene hums with an exhilarating energy, transforming dreams into cinematic pieces in every corner of its intricate mesh of hope, youth and burritos.

And from Los Angeles back to my hometown of Valencia, my life has been a tapestry of connections, movement, and exploration. Moving on and moving around. I am passionate about people and I love when I see the thinking happen. This passion led me to establish Setlife Media, a small one-stop-shop for production and film design.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Artistic Journey and Unique Approach

My journey in the creative industry has been a fulfilling blend of passion, hard work, and continuous learning. What sets my work apart is the seamless integration of creativity and technical proficiency, allowing me to manage and produce high-quality content across various media formats. One of my proudest achievements is the co-production of the short film “Anticlímax,” which starred four-time Goya winner Manolo Solo and received multiple awards, including the Silver Biznaga at the Málaga Festival and a nomination for the Goya Awards 2024. This project exemplifies my ability to handle complex shoots and coordinate large teams, ensuring that every element of the production aligns with the artistic vision.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

The path to where I am today was not easy. One of the significant challenges I faced was transitioning from a purely creative role to one that required extensive management skills. For example, while managing “La Terra Negra,” a film with a €700,000 budget, I had to navigate the complexities of coordinating a diverse team and ensuring efficient budget use. This experience taught me the importance of meticulous planning and clear communication. By leveraging my background in telecommunications engineering and graphic design, I was able to foster smoother collaboration between departments, ultimately leading to a successful production.

Key Lessons Learned

Through my career, I have learned several key lessons. Firstly, the importance of adaptability cannot be overstated. The creative industry is dynamic, and being able to pivot and find solutions quickly is crucial. Secondly, collaboration is the backbone of any successful project. My time working with CIMA and being mentored by Guadalupe Balaguer taught me that fostering strong relationships within the industry can open doors and provide invaluable support. Lastly, I have learned to value continuous learning and growth. Whether it’s mastering new software like Premiere Pro and After Effects or understanding the nuances of VR production, staying updated with industry trends has always been a priority.

My Brand and Story

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it is built on a foundation of passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence. My work in projects like the web series “ReCancelled,” which garnered over 1,000,000 views per episode, showcases my ability to create content that resonates with audiences on a large scale. My brand is about pushing the boundaries of traditional media, exploring new technologies, and bringing innovative ideas to life. I believe that storytelling, whether through films, series, or immersive media, has the power to connect people and evoke emotions, and I am dedicated to harnessing that power in every project I undertake.

In summary, my artistic journey is defined by a blend of creativity and technical skill, overcoming challenges through adaptability and collaboration, and a continuous pursuit of excellence. I am excited about the future and the potential to create impactful content that reaches and inspires a global audience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being originally from Valencia, Spain, I’d say we’d start by exploring the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, followed by a visit to the historic Mercado Central for local delicacies. Wandering through the old town, we’d admire the architecture of the Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete tower for panoramic views. The Turia Gardens would be perfect for a leisurely bike ride, while the beaches of Malvarrosa and Patacona provide the ideal setting for relaxation. In the evenings, we’d enjoy traditional paella at La Pepica and take in the lively atmosphere of the Barrio del Carmen.

In Los Angeles, we’d begin with a hike to Griffith Observatory or Runyon Canyon for sweeping city views, followed by lunch at The Grove. Exploring The Broad Museum and the Getty Center would immerse us in contemporary and classical art. We’d spend time at Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach, soaking up the sun and the eclectic atmosphere. A scenic drive to Malibu for wine tasting and beachside dining would highlight the natural beauty of the area (Malibu Farm is a favourite for bunches too). Evenings would include Hollywood attractions like the Walk of Fame, capped off with dining and live music in Koreatown.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Fulbright Scholarship Program, for allowing me to pursue what would’ve been unttainable. My instructors at the New York Film Academy, for instilling motivation and power. The city of Los Angeles, for curating such bundle of amazing artists and creative atmosphere.

Website: https://beacabrera.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/setlife.media