Can ‘Mr. Robot’ Creator Sam Esmail Hack the Film Independent Forum?
For two seasons, the stylish techno-thriller Mr. Robot has been redefining the possibilities of basic cable storytelling. For that, we can thank creator and showrunner Sam Esmail, who not only invented the show’s multi-layered narrative framework and off-kilter visual aesthetic, but who also directed literally every single episode of the show’s recently-concluded second season (as well as several episodes of season one)—a feat of multitasking prowess that practically boggles the mind.
Our hope, though, is that minds will be somewhat de-boggled this Saturday, October 22, when Esmail takes center stage at DGA headquarters in West Hollywood for the 2016 Film Independent Forum keynote conversation, offering insight into his process and sharing a wealth of behind-the-scenes anecdotes. The panel is supported by the USA Network, Mr. Robot’s home base.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfSRGcrPCYY
An intimate peek into the fractured psyche of anarchist-hacker Elliott Anderson, Mr. Robot has earned rave reviews for its cinematic camerawork, taut storytelling, formal experimentation and, of course, star Rami Malek’s captivating lead performance, which recently landed the actor an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Drama. (See Malek co-host our Film Independent Spirit Awards Filmmaker Grant & Nominee Brunch presentation last January.)
Past keynote conversations have included in-depth chats with Blumhouse mastermind Jason Blum, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, Selma’s Ava DuVernay and Esmail’s fellow TV innovator and Transparent auteur Jill Soloway, among others.
As the gulf between TV and independent film grows ever closer, understanding the free exchange of talent and ideas between these two cousin-mediums has become a critical piece of the career-building puzzle—a topic Esmail and moderator Mark Olsen of the LA Times are sure to touch upon in Saturday’s conversation (plus, presumably, spoilers for Mr. Robot season three… maybe). And speaking of obscure spoilers, here are two letters to keep in mind for Saturday: V and R.
Also, be sure to stick around for Saturday, including keynote address from the great Effie Brown. An accomplished producer and outspoken advocate for underrepresented voices in the film industry, you can get a sneak preview of what to expect from Brown’s address here:
For a full list of Forum panelists and complete schedule, check out our website. Time is running out, so buy your pass for the Forum now and start getting pumped by re-watching Mr. Robot’s lightning-quick, queasy-cool title sequence:
The 2016 Film Independent Forum happens October 21-23 at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles. For more information and updates about panels, please visit our website. For more from past Film Independent Forum participants, please visit our YouTube channel.
To keep up with this weekend’s Forum, be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Not a Member of Film Independent yet? Become one today.
The 2016 Film Independent Forum is supported by Premier Sponsors Directors Guild of America, Loyola Marymount University School of Film and Television and SAGindie, with Principal Sponsors Brandwood Global, Montana Film Office, and The Virginia Film Office.