We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Eloïse Descleves. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Eloïse below.
Hi Eloïse, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
While I’m not convinced that the feeling of imposter syndrome ever fully disappears, my experiences have illuminated that it’s not a personal shortcoming but a universal challenge. It’s easy to get caught up in the stories of youthful triumphs in our society, where success seems instantaneous and effortless. However, this perspective shifts when we peek behind the curtain to see the relentless effort and struggles that pave the way to such achievements. A turning point for me was forging a close friendship with someone on the Forbes 30 under 30 list. Despite her monumental success, she faced the same stresses and existential dilemmas as I did, proving that everyone suffers from the same doubts and insecurities.
This realization underscored a pivotal lesson: success doesn’t exempt one from doubts or stress. Every individual, regardless of their accolades, wrestles with similar fears. Reflecting on my own journey, especially during the tumultuous times like the SAG and WGA strikes in Hollywood, which created a dire shortage of work, I’ve learned to measure success not by external validation but by personal growth and resilience. Despite being in survival mode for much of 2023, moving from gig to gig just to make ends meet, I managed to produce two shorts I’m profoundly proud of: SOLID, directed by Grace Gregory and written by Audrey Corsa, and Made in America, crafted by Martiza Cruz. But the highlight of my year was definitely producing my first feature film, Greek Mothers Never Die, written and directed by Rachel Suissa. The movie was awarded a Gold Remi at the Houston WorldFest, which really highlight how hard the entire crew worked to make this movie made.
I had met Rachel in 2021 while I was working on the production of her first feature, Netflix Original’s Dangerous Liaisons. This reminded me of the unpredictable and rewarding nature of professional relationships. On the set of Greek Mothers Never Die, I was introduced to Paulie Caruso, an incredibly gifted filmmaker, and I’m now producing his feature, The Apartment. This journey has reinforced the importance of kindness and humility; you never know where a connection might lead or the impact it may have on both your career and personal growth.
Building genuine connections has not only propelled my career forward but also served as a gentle reminder that everyone is navigating their path, filled with its own challenges and triumphs. I have had tremendous help along the way, in particular from my co-producers, Euni Park and Meghna Chakraborty. This helps ground me whenever the waves of imposter syndrome attempt to erode my confidence.
So, while imposter syndrome might linger like a shadow, my path has taught me to celebrate each milestone, cherish the connections I’ve made, and remember that everyone, no matter how successful, is charting their own course through uncertainties. It’s in recognizing our shared struggles and victories that I find the strength to push forward, armed with the knowledge that I am not alone in this journey
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am an international producer who has produced content across the US, France, and the UK and I’m eager to broaden this canvas even further. My passion lies in shining a light on international filmmakers, giving voice to those extraordinary yet untold stories that span different cultures. It’s like being a treasure hunter, each discovery more captivating than the last, driven by the thrill of unearthing narratives that deserve a global stage.
One project that stands proudly in my portfolio is the recently produced feature, Greek Mothers Never Die. It’s a tale that hits close to home, exploring the dynamic between a young Greek woman and her overbearing mother, compelling her to move to the US. This film resonates deeply with me, echoing the themes of familial bonds and cultural clashes that are so universal yet uniquely poignant in each story.
Looking ahead, I’m buzzing with excitement for two East Coast-based features currently in development. These projects promise to bring fresh narratives to the forefront, and I can’t wait to guide them from concept to screen later this year. Moreover, my quest for discovering new voices has led me to produce a variety of shorts across France and the UK, each project a step towards bringing diverse and compelling stories to a wider audience.
What I find most exhilarating about this journey is the constant opportunity for growth and discovery. Every project is a new adventure, a chance to connect with different cultures, perspectives, and challenges. It’s this aspect of my work that I cherish the most—building bridges through storytelling, fostering understanding, and sharing the rich tapestry of human experiences across the globe.
To anyone following my journey, stay tuned for the narratives we’re about to bring to life. There’s a world of stories out there waiting to be told, and I’m here to ensure they get the spotlight they deserve. It’s an exciting time, and I can’t wait to share these upcoming adventures with you all
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
In my journey, the cornerstone has been an unwavering sense of self-awareness—understanding not just what I can do, but what truly ignites my passion. It’s easy to get caught up in chasing prestigious job titles or the next big thing. However, the real magic happens when you align your career with what genuinely excites you. For me, it’s the tangible process of creation—crafting a budget, outlining a schedule, and stepping onto the set for the first time, witnessing the culmination of various teams’ efforts. There’s an indescribable energy in bringing a project to life, piece by piece.
Another pivotal aspect has been carving out my niche. My journey has been shaped by a deep understanding of global talent and the intricacies of financial mechanisms across different filming territories. This specialized knowledge has not only set me apart but also enabled me to add unique value to every project I touch.
And perhaps most importantly, resilience. The amazing Tracy Oliver told at my USC graduation to “expect the unexpected,” advice that has proven invaluable time and again. The path is rarely smooth; it’s fraught with stalled projects, unexpected challenges, and the occasional fading of once-great relationships. Adaptability is key. Embrace the detours, for the most surprising opportunities often arise from them, borne out of hard work and the connections you’ve nurtured along the way.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate these three areas diligently. Dive deep into understanding what drives you—let that passion be your guide. Seek out your niche by exploring areas that fascinate you and where you can offer something unique. And, build your resilience; welcome challenges as opportunities to grow and learn. These qualities are not just the foundation of a successful career but of a fulfilling journey.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
In considering who has been most instrumental in helping me develop the skills and knowledge needed for success, I must first acknowledge my family—my parents and sister. Their unwavering support from the very beginning has been foundational. For instance, my mother, who had to leave Vietnam as a child, instilled in me the value of adaptability, teaching me to pivot and persevere when plans fall through. This lesson has been crucial in navigating the uncertainties typical in this industry.
Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors and a supportive circle of friends who challenge me and foster my growth. My mentors, in particular, engage in tough conversations that encourage reflection and growth, ensuring that I am both receptive to feedback and capable of constructive self-critique.
Lastly, the camaraderie and understanding from peers in my field have been invaluable. They appreciate the stresses unique to our work and emphasize the importance of humility and openness to criticism, traits essential for anyone looking to excel in this competitive environment.
Collectively, these individuals have not only supported me but also shaped the professional I am today, making them integral to my achievements
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12005101/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eloisedclv/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elo%C3%AFse-descleves-349607128/
Image Credits
Neptune Arthouse
