In the world of cinema, the interplay between power, people, and data is a fascinating and complex topic. This article delves into the insights shared at the Locarno Pro panel, where industry experts offered diverse perspectives on this very theme.
The Power Dynamics
Doris Ruth Eikhof, CEO of Design Otherwise, presented an intriguing take on the order of these elements. She suggested that power structures should be addressed first, followed by data, and then people. Eikhof's perspective highlights the importance of understanding the underlying power dynamics and narratives that shape our society before considering the role of individuals and the data that represents them.
People First: The Human Element
Andrea Occhipinti, president of Lucky Red, took a different approach, prioritizing people. He emphasized the role of judgment, sensitivity, and experience, believing that these human qualities should come first. Occhipinti's perspective underscores the value of intuition and the human connection in the film industry. It's a reminder that, despite the increasing reliance on data, the human element remains crucial.
Data as a Tool: A Balanced Approach
Yasmine Talli, acquisitions manager at mk2 Films, offered a balanced perspective, suggesting that people should gather data to maintain power. This approach highlights the idea that data should be used as a tool to support decision-making, rather than being the sole driver. Talli's view aligns with the belief that a combination of human insight and data analysis can lead to successful outcomes.
Conviction vs. Data: A Delicate Balance
The panel discussion also explored the delicate balance between conviction and data-driven decisions. Occhipinti shared that Lucky Red relies heavily on instinct and experience, often going against the grain of data-driven predictions. He cited examples like "Ida" and "Moonlight," films that defied expectations and proved the power of conviction.
The Role of Data in Decision-Making
At mk2, Talli explained that while emotion and taste are essential, they also consider factors like a director's track record and festival attendance. They look at "comparables" - films with similar market potential - as a form of market comparison. This approach demonstrates how data can be used as a supportive tool, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a film's potential.
The Human Factor: A Collaborative Effort
Talli's emphasis on the collaborative nature of decision-making at mk2 is notable. The involvement of a pool of readers and the acquisitions team underscores the value of diverse perspectives and a group decision-making process. This approach ensures that decisions are well-rounded and based on a variety of insights.
A Thought-Provoking Presentation
The panel session was part of the StepIn kick-off event, which included a presentation by Stephen Follows, a film industry data analyst. Follows' presentation, titled "Fear, Lies, and the Illusion of Control," raised important questions about the role of data in the industry. He highlighted issues such as the prevalence of "nepo baby creatives" in top-grossing films and the low profitability of indie films.
Final Thoughts
The Locarno Pro panel discussion offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse perspectives and approaches within the film industry. It highlights the ongoing debate between the reliance on data and the importance of human intuition and conviction. As the industry evolves, finding the right balance between these elements will be crucial for its success and creativity.
