We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Laura Medeiros. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Laura below.
Laura, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I don’t think there was a single moment when I found my purpose—I believe it has always been with me. My purpose is to tell stories.
From my earliest memories, I was captivated by storytelling, whether through the bedtime stories my grandmother told, the books I read, or most of all, the films I watched. Films, in particular, resonated with me the most. They had the power to transport me to new worlds, introduce unique characters, and offer both escapism and a deeper understanding of our own world and ourselves. Storytelling has always been an integral part of who I am.
However, the real question isn’t just about finding my purpose but how I fulfill it. I do so by being a film producer. I realized that focusing on just one aspect of filmmaking—such as writing or directing—would limit my ability to shape a project holistically. As a producer, I get to be involved in every stage of the filmmaking process, from script development to distribution, ensuring that my creative vision influences the entire production.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a Los Angeles-based film producer with experience spanning shorts, features, and series. I moved to the U.S from Brazil. in 2021, and since then, I’ve had the pleasure of working on numerous independent film projects—an experience that has brought me immense joy.
Producing in the independent world is always a challenge, but it’s a worthwhile one. Unlike big studio productions, indie filmmaking offers more flexibility and camaraderie, allowing filmmakers to uplift each other while working on projects they truly believe in. I’m deeply passionate about this space, where creativity thrives, and collaboration fuels innovation. And if you happen to create a successful project—well, the rewards are even greater.
The two areas of filmmaking that resonate with me most are development and distribution. In development, I love shaping stories and characters because, at the end of the day, the script is the heart of any film. On the distribution side, I enjoy strategizing festival routes and connecting with sales agents to ensure our films reach audiences worldwide. After all, there’s no joy in making a film if you can’t share it with the world.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Ohhh boy…. here we go:
1) Put yourself out there!
As a film producer, I firmly believe that taking risks is essential—especially when breaking into the industry. Having the courage to showcase your work is pivotal. In such a competitive field, any form of recognition can help you stand out. Yet, I often see young filmmakers hesitate to submit their films to festivals, held back by self-doubt about their work’s quality.
No matter where your film stands technically or artistically, it deserves to be seen. The real loss isn’t in receiving criticism—it’s in allowing your work to go unseen. Putting your film out there not only builds resilience but also helps you refine your craft and grow from feedback. If you shy away from sharing your work, you’ll never fully grasp your potential.
2) Be modest
Many first-time filmmakers believe their debut project is a masterpiece—and that’s completely understandable. After all, you likely wrote, directed, and edited the film yourself, all while working with a shoestring budget. This project is your baby, something you poured your heart, sweat, and soul into, and of course, you want to see it succeed.
However, most first-time films are not fully prepared for the world’s biggest festivals, such as Cannes, Tribeca, Sundance, Berlin, Toronto, or Venice. If you’re submitting to these prestigious events, you’ll be competing against some of the biggest names in cinema, making it incredibly difficult to break through—especially as an unknown filmmaker.
Instead of aiming for these top-tier festivals right away (which can be costly per submission), consider starting with local festivals that focus on emerging voices. Building a name for yourself within smaller, independent circuits can increase your chances of long-term success. Cannes can wait. Be patient—if you play your cards right, you’ll get there someday.
3) Learn how to take criticism
This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. If you want to succeed in this industry, you must learn how to handle criticism—both constructive and harsh.
In the independent film world, many people genuinely want to support and elevate each other. If someone truly cares about your project, they’ll offer honest feedback, even if it’s tough to hear. Your job is to listen, take notes, and reflect on their insights. You don’t have to agree with everything, but understanding different perspectives will only strengthen your work.
Most importantly, avoid sharing your project only with people who always praise you. Seek fresh perspectives and honest feedback from a variety of sources. A diverse range of opinions will give you a more genuine sense of how your work resonates with an audience.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
They were the ones who introduced me to the magical world of film. From an early age, they gave me unrestricted access to a wide range of classics—from Indiana Jones to The Shining, and from The Goonies to Titanic. This exposure, free from genre limitations, was instrumental in shaping my broad perspective on filmmaking. That same diversity and depth now inspire the work I create.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://demedeiroslaura98.wixsite.com/laura-medeiros-produ
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producedby_medeiros/
Image Credits
– Personal Archive
– California Women’s Film Festival
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