Film producer Lynne Reynolds’ days and nights play out in the full flush of creative passion – in this case, a heady mix of filmmaking, children and family. She recently produced and directed her first documentary, Angels and Autism: Finding Faith for the Autistic Child, shown this summer at a conference in Washington, D.C.
As a member of Women in Film.Dallas (WIF.D), she helps focus WIF.D’s lens on local efforts to help disadvantaged children. When DallasChild visited with Reynolds, she had just completed an intense week sequestered with aspiring teen filmmakers at a local filmmaking camp.
Tell us about your recent session at Kamp Hollywood for aspiring teen filmmakers. We hear fantastic things about how nitty-gritty you get with the kids. Yes, nitty-gritty but very rewarding! We teach production and acting in a very hands-on environment where the kids write, shoot, direct and act in their own commercial and short film – in only one week.
KH provides a realistic experience, and the children walk away with either an incurable passion or a respect for the process that will provide them entertainment throughout life. Either way, they’ve learned important life skills about teamwork, compromise and commitment.
What is your advice for parents whose children seem interested in filmmaking and visual media? There’s a huge difference between enjoying movies and video games and making them. It’s impossible to know that difference until you’ve tried. There is an innate talent and you can nurture their gift, but you can’t instill it. Parents will recognize and know when it becomes an obsession; those are our future filmmakers and creators of new media.
How does your work with children affect your role as a filmmaker? So far, it has been an intrinsic part of my work, and I gravitate toward projects that are child-oriented for two reasons. The younger generations have grown up almost oblivious to the rapid advancement of technology. It fascinates me that the youth of today take for granted the changes that occurred for my generation (cell phones/DVDs/Internet) in the same way we lacked appreciation for the changes in our parents’ lives.
Second, I embrace my inner child. This industry allows you to stay in touch with your creative side where there are no rules. I don’t have to play inside the box, because there is no box!
Is there an aspect of your work that you find especially frustrating? Unfortunately, this industry is fraught with those who mislead and exploit others. I strongly caution parents to research any individuals or activities before your child gets involved. There is an ugly side to this business. Also, it frustrates me when the public sees only the glamour and not the hard work from the people responsible for the magic, the ones who aren’t recognized for their contributions and great talent.
Tell us how WIF.D is getting involved with PSA for Love for Kids, Inc. Each year, WIF.D selects a nonprofit organization in the region to receive a Public Service Announcement (PSA) from WIF.D, free of charge. This includes everything from script development to post-production. This year’s recipient is Love For Kids, Inc., an extraordinary organization that enriches the lives of over 3,000 children and 1,500 seniors yearly with benevolent services. This nonprofit has been a “quiet giant” for 30 years, and WIF.D felt it was time to help by awarding them this wonderful marketing tool so that they can increase their awareness within the community.
How do you balance a demanding professional life and creative passion with nurturing your own teenage son, your husband … and yourself? Put things on hold. Remember your priorities, so get up and walk away from the computer. Children grow up fast, and you can’t get that time back. Must-do at the Reynolds’ residence: Travel. Getting involved in film distribution was an ideal combination, traveling to some of the greatest cities to attend film festivals. It’s my dream job. No-ways are simple: No boredom, no regrets.
When things get hectic, how do you let off steam and relax? I go to the movies, of course!
