RUNNING PANDA FILMS - Jessica Pearce, Producer and Managing Director
Tell us about your role as producer at Running Panda?
As Producer and Managing Director at Running Panda Films I oversee all the content that we create from development, pre production to delivery and distribution.
What’s the history of Running Panda?
Running Panda Films as a brand is quite young and came out of my decision to brand my work as a Production Company rather than myself personally.
How, when and why did you become interested in producing?
I had been involved in arts since I was very young yet when I entered the work force I ended up in Sales and Management for ten years. After looking to move into something more creative again, I found my skills from Sales and Management transferred quite easily into Production.
It then became a bit of fate as things grew so rapidly and progressed quickly into what is now Running Panda Films. It can sound corny but I like to say 'I dip my toe in the water and the river took me'.
What films are you currently producing?
We have multiple projects in various stages of development. Our most recent short film, Superheroes alongside Creative Buzz Films is in post production and will enter the film festival circuit later this year.
Nathan Loves Ricky Martin which was a short film co-production we were associated with Diverse Films is currently doing the Festival Circuit as well.
Running Panda Films is currently in association with the upcoming feature documentary, The Colour of Love of which we are raising funds.
Waiting on Sound is also being distributed and is due to screen at the Toronto WebFest later this month. We also have a range of feature and short films in development.
Can you tell us how you became involved in the narrative feature The Legend of Ben Hall?
A mutual friend of Matt and Myself introduced us. I originally came on board when the film was a 30 minute film. Obviously, things have progressed quite a bit from there.
What’s your strategy for the upcoming Cannes Film Festival?
I have been contacting representatives for a while now and organising meetings while I am there. Ultimately, the goal is to just talk to as many people as possible about who we are and what we are doing. We are a young company so this will be a great platform to introduce ourselves and our work.
Would you like to work with new directors? What is the process?
Yes I am always open to new projects and new directors. The best way is to contact through our website. Make sure to put some personality in your submission. The Producer and Director relationship has to be a very cohesive one so it can feel a little like dating finding the right person on both sides.
What are you most interested in producing – shorts or features – drama, documentary, animation?
I get this question a lot. I have not found that I am biased towards a specific genre, format or style. It all comes down to the script for me then secondly the people involved.
How has your knowledge and understanding of producing evolved over time?
I don't think it will ever stop evolving. The biggest lesson I have learnt is knowing when to put up your hand up and say 'I don't know'. As well as, learning to step back and oversee the production. When you progress from small projects to larger productions being the person who does it all is not sustainable. It is about finding a team that you trust and understands how you work.
Website link: www.runningpandafilms.com