Interview - Marcella Dichmann

Hello Marcella!
How long have you been working at SF Studios?

I have been working at SF Studios since August 2019. 

What do you do in your role as Producer?

My main goal is to create films that people love. As a producer, I am involved in the full production cycle - from idea and funding to shooting and marketing of the film. In all phases I work closely with creative people involved in the film making process – directors, production crew, scriptwriters amongst many. I usually run several projects at the same time, which are often in different stages of the development process.

At the beginning of the process, when we have an idea that we think will work commercially, I sit down together with the creative team to brainstorm how the idea can be developed further. The idea will then be translated into synopsis, a treatment and later a script. It is typically when we have a treatment or first draft for a script that we seek financial support for the project – either from our own distribution team, the film institute, a regional film fund, a TV station, or other streaming services.

I am involved in everything that has to do with the film, from finding the production crew and cast, to handle budgets and social media content. The shooting takes about 6-7 weeks for a film, while it takes longer for a TV series. During this phase I am coordinating the work and making sure that everything runs smoothly and that we do not go above budget. The film is thereafter put into post-production and visual effects may be added. From early idea, I work closely with our own distribution team to stay ahead and make sure that the film gets the attention it deserves. And together with the film institute and our sales agent I start building an international launch outside the Nordics. 

Why did you join SF Studios?

For many years I have worked in production companies, having fewer colleagues than now at SF Studios. It has its advantages and disadvantages. In relation to my personal development, I missed having more colleagues. SF Studios were distributing some of the films I made and as I worked closely with the distribution team at SF Studios, I got to get a strong impression of the company and what it is like working here. SF Studios has a good reputation within the industry, and I knew there were a lot of great people working there. Joining SF Studios was a great opportunity for me – I got more colleagues to collaborate with in my daily work and got to work even closer with the distribution team.

What do you like the most in your role today?

I enjoy working close to the distribution team. Working together under the same roof enables us to develop ideas and brainstorm on how to bring the film to the market early in the development process. We all get a genuine interest in the film from the beginning, and a personal drive for the film to succeed. I truly like that we work cross-functional and meet in the creative space.

How would you describe the culture at SF Studios?

We are a value-driven company, which I think is seen in everything we do. I like that we are honest and that we work together as one team. You never feel lonely - there are a bunch of great colleagues and managers that are always happy to support each other. I think this is what makes us stand out – we have good core values and that is why people choose to work with us.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find a lot of inspiration in things happening in our world and surroundings. I also watch films and TV series to get inspired. It is not always inspiration by the direct content, but in the following discussions with colleagues. There are always subjects to dig into – it can be sad, heavy, or fun. It is about finding the essence of things.

What is your best film/TV memory?

I love a good comedy – such as Bridesmaids. I like the relatable humor, where you sometimes want to hide behind a pillow because you can relate to the embarrassment in the film.

But I also watch thrillers – The silence of the lambs with Hannibal Lecter is one of my favorites. I like the intriguing story that continues to surprise you throughout the film and I also like that there is a woman in the leading role. 

Do you have any tips for people who are interested in joining SF Studios?

I believe a positive attitude is essential to fit in our team and you should definitely be a team player.