In this episode, we talk with the Greater Cleveland Film Commission (GCFC)’s Mike Wendt about his ventures in film, as well as the state of the industry in Cleveland, Ohio. We take a look at his beginnings from working at Tribeca to his role now as the production coordinator at GCFC. Chris “Tico” Crawford also joins us as co-host.
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Preview
If you are a part of Cleveland’s film scene, you may have encountered this episode’s guest at one point. Mike Wendt is the production coordinator for the Greater Cleveland Film Commission. Outside of his day job, he is still active in his own projects. Recently, he received a Satellite Fund Grant through Spaces and The Andy Warhol Foundation, which will help him finish the documentary, “Robert Banks: I’ll Tell You About That Later.” Today, we talk with Mike about the state of film here in The Land. We go into his career in film, where he had spent time with Tribeca and connected with everyone he met to further advance his career. Again, joining James in co-hosting duties is Chris “Tico” Crawford.
Talking Points
His beginnings in film from Tribeca to an encounter with an infamous producer
How he kept his morale up after being rejected from working a blockbuster film
How we can become better filmmakers, regardless of gear
The film scene in Northeast Ohio, why projects choose or reject filming here
The not-so-glamorous life of a location scout
Why he has a passion for documentaries
The importance of a film commission