Blair Witch Producer Robin Cowie
The Indie Filmmaker Got His Start at Haxam, Nickelodeon, Disney
Robin Cowie, son of an entrepreneur, followed in his father's footsteps and took his love of film and knowledge of the Net and screen to Hollywood.
Suite 101: Given the many avenues into the entertainment industry, why did you choose to enter via Internet marketing?
Robin Cowie: I have been interested in the Internet since college. When we formed Haxam films, one of the first ways that we marketed The Blair Witch Project was online, which, in addition to the Web consulting that I was doing, got me hooked.
During my hiatus from Haxam, I took this know-how and interest to Worldwide Brands, helping to propel it forward. Web knowledge is vital in modern media. There is a convergence between entertainment and the internet now. We’re living in a time when content provider communicates directly with consumers.
Suite 101: You're a successful entrepreneur; how did you take matters into your own hands? Were you anxious about that decision?
Robin Cowie: I’m the son of a serial entrepreneur. My father has always been involved in entrepreneurial ventures that have succeeded, collapsed and been rebuilt. Growing up in that environment ,and with that dynamic, makes the process familiar.
That experience and background is what has attracted me to independent films - there aren’t any prescribed rules and it’s always a challenge. It’s a world where you don’t necessarily “wing it,” but there is certainly an aspect of unpredictability.
Suite 101: On your personal website you describe yourself as someone who “connects people.” What tips would you offer those less experienced with networking?
Robin Cowie: Filmmaking is one of the most collaborative arts. There is no way someone could do it alone, so networking is inevitable. I personally enjoy finding people with similar talents and putting them together to make something happen. It’s not just schmoozing, it’s about really listening to people and asking them as many questions as possible in order to understand what they’re capable of , what they are really trying to achieve. Pairing people who are ultimately able to change and improve each other’s lives is an amazing feeling.
Suite 101: What do you normally read in your downtime?
Robin Cowie: I get a daily update from Variety, in addition to the many scripts I read. I also read Creative Screenwriting magazine. They have a podcast you can subscribe to on itunes that features writer’s talking about writing.
For more from Robin Cowie about getting started as film writer and the life of a movie mogul check out the other two parts of this interview, and learn about the fine art of pitching to producers and financing your own film.
