This EP’s responsibilities range gamut “from managing our production staff to treating clients to an amazing dinner.”
Company: Chicago’s Sarofsky
Can you describe your company?
We like to describe ourselves as a design-driven production company. I like to think of us as that but so much more. We can be a one-stop shop for everything from concept through finish, or we can partner with a variety of other companies and just be one piece of the puzzle. It’s like ordering from a Chinese menu — you get to pick what items you want.
What’s your job title, and what does the job entail?
I’m executive producer, and that means different things at different companies and industries. Here at Sarofsky, I am responsible for things that run the gamut from managing our production staff to treating clients to an amazing dinner.
Sarofsky
What would surprise people the most about what falls under that title?
I also run payroll, and I am damn good at it.
How has the VFX industry changed in the time you’ve been working?
It used to be that when you told someone, “This is going to take some time to execute,” that’s what it meant. But now, everyone wants everything two hours ago. On the flip side, the technology we now have access to has streamlined the production process and provided us with some terrific new tools.
Why do you like being on set for shoots? What are the benefits?
I always like being on set whenever I can because decisions are being made that are going to affect the rest of the production paradigm. It’s also a good opportunity to bond with clients and, sometimes, get some kick-ass homemade guacamole.
Did a particular film inspire you along this path in entertainment?
I have been around this business for quite a while, and one of the reasons I got into it was my love of film and filmmaking. I can’t say that one particular film inspired me to do this, but I remember being a young kid and my dad taking me to see The Towering Inferno in the movie theater. I was blown away.
What’s your favorite part of the job?
Choosing a spectacular bottle of wine for a favorite client and watching their face when they taste it. My least favorite has to be chasing down clients for past due invoices. It gets old very quickly.
What is your most productive time of the day?
It’s 6:30am with my first cup of coffee sitting at my kitchen counter before the day comes at me. I get a lot of good thinking and writing done in those early morning hours.
Original Bomb Pop via agency VMLY&R
If you didn’t have this job, what would you be doing instead?
I would own a combo bookstore/wine shop where people could come and enjoy two of my favorite things.
Why did you choose this profession?
I would say this profession chose me. I studied to be an actor and made my living at it for several years, but due to some family issues, I ended up taking a break for a few years. When I came back, I went for a job interview at FCB and the rest is history. I made the move from agency producing to post executive producer five years ago and have not looked back since.
Can you briefly explain one or more ways Sarofsky is addressing the issue of workplace diversity in its business?
We are a smallish women-owned business, and I am a gay man; diversity is part of our DNA. We always look out for the best talent but also try to ensure we are providing opportunities for people who may not have access to them. For example, one of our amazing summer interns came to us through a program called Kaleidoscope 4 Kids, and we all benefited from the experience.
Name some recent projects you have worked on, which are you most proud of, and why?
My first week here at EP, we went to LA for the friends and family screening of Guardians of the Galaxy, and I thought, what an amazing company I work for! Marvel Studios is a terrific production partner, and I would say there is something special about so many of our clients because they keep coming back. I do have a soft spot for our main title for Animal Kingdom just because I am a big Ellen Barkin fan.
Original Bomb Pop via agency VMLY&R
Name three pieces of technology you can’t live without.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t say my MacBook and iPhone, but I also wouldn’t want to live without my cooking thermometer, as I’ve learned how to make sourdough bread this year, and it’s essential.
What social media channels do you follow?
I am a big fan of Instagram; it’s just visual eye candy and provides a nice break during the day. I don’t really partake in much else unless you count NPR. They occupy most of my day.
Do you listen to music while you work? Care to share your favorite music to work to?
I go in waves. Sometimes I do but then I won’t listen to anything for weeks. But I recently enjoyed listening to “Ladies and Gentleman: The Best of George Michael.” It was great to listen to an entire album, a rare treat.
What do you do to de-stress from it all?
I get up early and either walk or do some type of exercise to set the tone for the day. It’s also so important to unplug; my partner and I love to travel, so we do that as often as we can. All that and a 2006 Chateau Margaux usually washes away the day in two delicious sips.
