NEW IBERIA, La. --- Professional entertainment industry members, including moderator Vicky Branton who is currently Teche Life editor of The Daily Iberian, will discuss the challenges and opportunities for authors whose books would make great movies, or already have been made into movies at the Sliman Theater (129 Main St.) from 10 a.m. until noon on Sat., April 6.
In 1986, St. Martinville native and Lafayette attorney
Allan Durand accidently became a movie producer — with incredible help along the way. Supported by the Sundance Institute, Durand along with director Glen Pitre, composer Michael Doucet and others created the movie, “Belizaire the Cajun.” The historic romance did not come from a book, rather the book followed the production of the film.
"Glamour is hard work. Tax credits don't go into the producer's pocket. Everyone in movies isn't rich," said Hollywood industry insider
Linda Thurman who gained her expertise in the movie industry from the ground up. She performed in theatre productions across the country before finding her niche behind the scenes.
A native Mississippian, Linda Thurman was a founding member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Interactive Media Peer Group and cofounder of Emerald Bayou Studios. Her work for HBO Pictures and United Artists greatly inspired the writing of “Hollywood South,” her book about the history of Louisiana in the movies and more.
In 1991, she became managing editor of the Hollywood Creative Directory, initiating and supervising the launch of HCD Online in 1994. Thurman lives in Louisiana, where she has worked tirelessly at promoting the movie industry.
Dr. Ted Baehr is founder and publisher of MOVIEGUIDE®: The Family Guide to Movies and Entertainment and Chairman of the Christian Film & Television Commission® ministry, as well as a noted critic, educator, lecturer and media pundit. His life’s purpose is to be used of God to redeem the values of the media while educating audiences on how to use discernment in selecting their entertainment.
For more than three decades Baehr has been the “go-to-guy” for many movie executives wanting to know how the conservative viewer, moviegoer, will react to a script before it goes into production. He has been known to change the outcome of many projects. His endorsement can mean the difference between success and disappointment.
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