“Be original! Learn as much as you can but do it your way. There is only one of you and that's what will make you standout.
— Emma McAteer
The Interview Q&A
Where are you primarily based out of?
Los Angeles, California
What role do you typically play on set?
Producer
How long have you been working in the film industry? Where did you get your start?
About 3 years! I have been an admirer of film my entire life but I only started pursuing a career in it 3 years ago. In my ultimate year at Yale University, I produced and directed a documentary about my hometown in Ireland , called The Knot and upon graduating I moved to Los Angeles and began working at Sony Pictures Entertainment in the Worldwide Theatrical Marketing and Distribution Division. However, my real producing work in Los Angeles began with, what I hope to be a lifelong partnership with, Skye Film Studios on an anthology of horror films, including Binate, The Holding and Soul X.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've encountered and how have you overcome them?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but I think that’s what makes the journey so rewarding. One of the biggest challenges was figuring out how to turn my passion into a career. I began my career studying Economics, at the London School of Economics, which felt like a practical choice, but it wasn’t what I truly wanted. As my father always tells me, if you’re not happy, do something about it. It took courage to pivot, leave London, and start over at Yale , but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I am so blessed by the opportunities I have been given – I definitely do not take any of it for granted. Another challenge has been breaking into the film industry – especially these past few years with COVID and the multiple strikes. It’s competitive and often unpredictable with an ever evolving landscape. Balancing a demanding studio job while working on independent projects in my spare time hasn’t been easy, but it’s reinforced the value of hard work and persistence. I’ve also faced the usual struggles of any creative producer: budget constraints, tight deadlines, and the occasional self-doubt. What’s helped me overcome these challenges is the support of my friends and collaborators -they’ve been instrumental in helping me stay focused and motivated.
Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?
This is a tough question... there are quite a few iconic producers I look up to.. like Kathleen Kennedy - the incredible ground breaking female producer who broke down so many barriers of this industry. But also, my family back home and ancestors who grew up and had to survive in a completely different world than me, and who were extremely talented creatively but didn't have the opportunities or resources to make their talents a career. The biggest lesson is always to do focus on good work - work hard and it will pay off. At the same time, don't let it consume you and have fun too!
What does it mean to you to be an inspiration/mentor to someone else?
It means the world!! I wouldn't be where I am without the help of countless people so if I can pass on anything I know/ help at all, then I'd love to. The collaborative nature of film might be one of the most beautiful things about it.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Everyone and everything! I am the kind of person who has friends of all ages, all over the world. I love learning about people and hearing their stories. However, most inpsiration for me comes from home... Ireland. Storytelling is literally in our DNA - it is the land of Saints and Scholars after all. There are so many incredible stories from home that I would love to tell on the big screen.
If you had one message to share with the world, what would it be?
I love the quote "Be in this world but not of it"... in other words, show up and give 100%, but don't become consumed with the unavoidable inconveniences - and remain true to yourself.
What’s are some of the biggest things you’ve accomplished in your career so far?
My recent film Not for a Few Miles has been doing great at film festivals, winning Best Indie Short at the New York International Film Awards for example, and I won Best Producer at a film festival for my short Instructions for Yesterday. Getting to work on a variety of projects such as producing music videos for Australian artist Ruel, Grammy recipient Isolde Fair and RnB artist Sanniyah Antoinette. This year I am producing multiple feature films which I consider an accomplishment and exciting next step in my career!!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? (No dream is too big!)
I hope to be here in Los Angeles producing major budget motion pictures, telling human stories and amplifying underrepresented voices
If you had one piece of advice for a woman who wants to get started in the film industry what it would be?
Be original! Learn as much as you can but do it your way. There is only one of you and that's what will make you standout.
What kind of projects are you currently working on that you can share? (Feel free to leave links to the projects to view)
I recently finished a short film called Not for a Few Miles that I am very proud of. I produced that one, but also co-wrote it with a dear friend and acted in it. This summer I will be shooting two thriller short films, and then I'll be out in New Mexico for about 6 weeks shooting a superhero feature film!! Definitely staying busy and always looking for the next project.
What does being a part of The Women in Film Project mean to you?
I feel so honored to be included in The Women in Film Project! In all industries, but particularly this one, it is so important for women to support and encourage each other. The project has no lack of inspiration.