Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Reyna Scott
Hi Mel Reyna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I launched MPact Pictures over lockdown with the vision of bringing humanity back into the world. I wanted to do more and felt producing quality entertainment that focused on compassion was one way I could give back.
The idea of producing TV and film organically developed as I started taking those long daily walks, like many others during that scary and bizarre period, passing time by listening to audio books and podcasts. I happened across a podcast called, “The Producers Guide” hosted by Todd Garner. I thought it would be interesting to hear a producer’s viewpoint and what it’s like behind the camera. I randomly picked an ep and after one listen, I was hooked! Not only was the discussions funny and interesting, but his voice brought on a sense of calmness I was desperately seeking and allowed a sliver of inner peace into my day.
The two most influential eps were Todd Black and Adam DeVine. Mr. Black told stories of how he sat in his childhood home and bought his first IPs with a loan from his parents. He also shared his strategy on how and why to acquire IP. The how is simple – call and ask for it. The critical piece is owning it. Simply put, leverage. So, I thought well… I have savings and a phone – I can buy IP from my desk. Step one noted.
Mr. DeVine comedically explained how he was hired as a writer on a TV show, while reading books at night on how to write for a TV show. So, I thought well… I can learn how to produce while producing. Step two, complete step one.
Within a couple of months, I had found a book about a WWII Air Force Bomber pilot called Walkout, I made a call and got the option. I’ve been off and running ever since. I am eternally grateful to all three of these talented pros for their contribution to my life pivot and most importantly, for empowering the hope within that enabled me to take this leap.
Today I have curated an eclectic library of acquired IP, including three book options. While having different genres, tones, settings etc., they all have one common thread – the underappreciated. My purpose is to tell stories about underdogs, marginalized and often hidden heroes that have still not gotten their accolades to this day due to sex, color, ethnicity, etc. It’s time to change that.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My obstacles and challenges could fill a novel, but the skinny is I have them Every.Single.Day. Along with mistakes, lots and lots of them. I once emailed a big-time agent and spelled his client’s name wrong…an A-lister. Seriously???
The cool aspect of learning as you go though is that one doesn’t forget the blunders. I learn something every day. I improve my approach, angles, and strategy constantly. It’s a full-time agile sprint with pivots at every corner. If I can’t get through the door, then I hop over a wall and keep going. Mr. Jerry Weintraub taught me this lesson, I listen to “When I Stop Talking, You’ll Know I’m Dead” at least three times a year. It’s one of my favorite all time books. It’s pure entertainment and a crash Ivy League business school course all in one.
While there is no shortage of challenges, I’m having so much fun I just keep hopping the walls. And thanks to Mr. Black’s advice, I have more than one Star of Ardaban in my pocket!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As with many creatives, I have a day job. For most of my life I have been searching to find my purpose and passion in life. I fell into the technology space over 15 years ago when CRM was added to my role at a start-up in NYC. I am now an independent CRM Consultant specializing in Salesforce projects and just celebrated my fifth year in business.
I’m an active member and Director of the LA5 Rotary Club of Los Angeles and the Founder and Creative Director of the “Four-Way Film Fest” (formally known as the “LA5 Short Film Festival”) going on our third festival year.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’m very fortunate to have some incredible people in life. I strongly believe that the Universe aligns people into our lives that we are supposed to have around us. I know that I am still at the beginning of my journey, yet I would not have made it this far if were not for countless people that have my back.
Like my first table read. I sent an email to my fellow online acting classmates and I had it completely organized including all actors needed within 8 hours. Who does that happen to??? Chloe Friberg of Friberg Pictures, my creative partner in crime. She is the brilliant writer of the Walkout pilot, as well as the co-creator and writer of our Panache de Vendome series. David Tenzer, my attorney. He took me on when no one else would and has mentored me through my entire journey.
When you surround yourself with great people, great things will happen – like a surprise phone call inviting you to partner with your bucket list producer – as if it’s just another Tuesday… (yes, that really happened!)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mpactpictures.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpactpictures/
- Other: https://www.fourwayfilmfest.com/
Image Credits
William Kidston Photography, MPact Pictures
