Invisible Work of Producers Plus Sundance Slate 2025

In this special episode of No Film School, GG Hawkins and Jason Hellerman delve into the often-overlooked role of producers and the essential work they perform behind the scenes. They are joined by Emmy-nominated producer Carolina Groppa, who shares insights from her remarkable career. The episode also highlights key films from the newly announced Sundance 2025 slate, offering reflections on the festival’s evolving influence.

Meet Carolina Groppa: Carolina is an Emmy-nominated producer who was previously the Executive in Charge of Production at Issa Rae’s HOORAE Media and ColorCreative. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Carolina moved to the US as a child, and her immigrant upbringing inspired her to work hard to build the career of her dreams.

Carolina produced the 2017 Emmy-nominated feature documentary AUTISM IN LOVE, which explores how adults with autism find and navigate romantic relationships. Passionate about supporting female filmmakers, she was a co-producer on Netflix’s MISS VIRGINIA, starring Uzo Aduba, and IFC’s THE FEMALE BRAIN, Whitney Cummings’ directorial debut. She was a physical producer on Amazon’s SYLVIE'S LOVE, starring Tessa Thompson and Nnamdi Asomugha, and the UPM/EP on Adamma Ebo’s 2022 Sundance hit HONK FOR JESUS. SAVE YOUR SOUL, starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown.

She also produced the documentaries HYSTERICAL (2020) for FX and THE HONORABLE: SHYNE (2024) for Hulu. Additionally, she is the creator, host, and producer of ANGLE ON PRODUCERS, a podcast spotlighting producers across entertainment. A love letter to the creative community, the show boasts over 95 episodes and has featured notable guests such as Eva Longoria, Stephanie Allain, Lynette Howell Taylor, and Cynthia Erivo.

In this episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins, Jason Hellerman, and Carolina Groppa discuss:

• Carolina Groppa’s career journey, from her early days as an actor to becoming a producer and podcast host
• The invisible yet critical role of producers and why their contributions are often misunderstood
• Practical advice for emerging producers, including navigating challenges and building strong collaborations
• Reflections on the 2025 Sundance slate, including standout films like Sorry Baby and Dead Lover
• How trust and leadership shape successful filmmaking partnerships

Memorable Quotes:

• “Producing is about choices. It’s never just about saying no; it’s about saying, ‘Here’s what we can do with what we have.’”
• “The only thing people remember is how you made them feel on set. If you can lead with kindness and clarity, that’s what sticks.”
• “Sundance is where you see the future of storytelling take shape, and this year’s slate is no exception.”

Resources:

• Carolina Groppa’s Podcast: Angle on Producers
• Carolina’s IMDb: Carolina Groppa
• Carolina on Instagram: @carolinagroppa
• Learn more about the Sundance Film Festival: Sundance 2025

Highlighted Sundance Films:

• Sorry Baby: A heartfelt indie produced by Pastel, Barry Jenkins’ company
• Dead Lover: Directed and written by Grace Glowicki, featuring Ben Petrie, and described as “genre-bending and unforgettable”
• Lose: A poignant drama set in Hong Kong about a man searching for his daughter

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