Maria Soccor: A Visionary Independent Filmmaker Redefining Storytelling and Global Collaboration
Maria Soccor, a dynamic force in independent filmmaking, continues to captivate the industry with her unique blend of artistic vision and strategic acumen. Her recent presence at the Cannes Film Festival wasn’t just about showcasing her work; it was an opportunity to share her invaluable insights into navigating the evolving landscape of film production and distribution. Soccor’s philosophy is deeply rooted in collaboration, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling.
In an era of tightening budgets and shifting industry dynamics, Soccor, through Maria Soccor Productions, has become a vocal advocate for intelligent global production. She emphasizes the tangible benefits of looking beyond national borders for filming opportunities. “Given the cutbacks in public funding from sources such as the NEA amongst others, it’s more important than ever to optimize budgets to ensure projects get distribution, which is ultimately my goal as a filmmaker,” she asserts. This involves not only identifying locations with robust infrastructure and generous rebates, such as the UK, Ireland, Canada, and Eastern Europe, but also actively pursuing co-production partnerships. “Where possible, co-productions can help leverage financial advantages of filming abroad and I urge all producers and filmmakers to actively research co-productions to help maximize every dollar in the budget,” she advises.
Soccor’s career trajectory, beginning with the foundational work on stage and set, growing from the ground up, s a testament to her belief in understanding every facet of filmmaking. When asked about strategies beyond discipline for career advancement, she emphasizes the collaborative nature of the art form and the importance of a clear vision. “Filmmaking, in its essence, is a collaborative art form with a wide range of roles. Each roll is unique, and vital,” she explains. For independent filmmakers, clarity of vision is paramount: “I have learned that the vision has to be clear in order to sustain my stylized films.” This clarity, coupled with trust in her team, forms the bedrock of her success. “I believe that everyone involved in a production should be dedicated to creating the best possible film, and trust my creative vision,” Soccor states, emphasizing the “commitment to excellence” as fundamental for anyone embarking on a feature film.
What truly sets Maria Soccor apart is her distinctive storytelling style. “I am a storyteller who stylizes my films,” she proclaims, known for her feature documentary work rooted in chronicling and ensemble casts, exemplified by her acclaimed Lords of BSV. Her aim is always to deliver a “high production value, sincere storytelling coupled with stylized visual storytelling, that take an audience on a cinematic journey.”
Soccor’s pragmatic approach extends to the lifecycle of a film project. She believes in decisive action during the development phase: “If a film does not meet the requirements, it’s better to walk away in the development phase.” However, once she commits, there is no turning back: “But once I commit, I commit and there is no turning back. I owe that to everyone involved and the work.” This unwavering dedication ensures that every project she undertakes is seen through to its fullest potential.
Navigating the complex world of film distribution requires a keen understanding of the market. “It is crucial to acknowledge the distinct nature of each network and platform when undertaking the sale of a film,” Soccor explains. Her team meticulously identifies suitable distributors or sales agents to secure pre-sales and optimal platform placement. When pitching, she stresses the necessity of a “pitch deck,” a “sizzle or at least a proof of concept,” and whenever possible, a “director’s vision” to ignite conversations.
Beyond traditional funding avenues, Soccor is a champion of diverse financial strategies. “Grants, private equity, film contests, and crowd funding are ways to raise funds,” she notes, underscoring that “every film has ways to raise funds if not coming from the studios.”
While the idea of establishing a production company might seem appealing, Soccor offers a pragmatic perspective. “From my perspective, I would advise against starting a production company unless you have a very solid foundation to support it,” she cautions, adding, “anything that pulls my focus away from the core work of acting and filmmaking feels like a distraction.” However, she acknowledges its utility as a strategic tool: “if someone finds they are better positioned within the industry to facilitate the distribution of films, then forming a production company and shifting from the creative aspects to selling projects could indeed be a beneficial move.” For her, Maria Soccor Productions serves as a “vital structure to support my projects through to platforms and even highly anticipated theatrical releases.”
A strong advocate for inclusivity, Soccor actively seeks out and mentors emerging talent, particularly from Gen Z. “As Maria Soccor Productions continues to expand, I find that mentorship plays a crucial role in our growth,” she explains. She values the “fresh perspectives and unique skill sets that younger individuals bring to our team,” and emphasizes a welcoming environment for all, including “mothers who are re-entering the workforce after raising children.”
Soccor touches on the nuanced discussion of labels within the industry. “I’ve been reflecting on how the emphasis on specific labels like ‘female filmmaker’ can sometimes create division rather than foster unity,” she shares, highlighting the disparity with terms like “male filmmaker.” While recognizing the marginalization faced by women in film, especially women of color or those over 40, she ultimately advocates for a focus on the work itself: “I believe it’s crucial for us to prioritize inclusivity and recognize that ultimately, our work will be categorized by genre, making these other distinctions less relevant.”
Maria Soccor’s insights from her panel at the Cannes Film Festival underscore her position as a thoughtful leader in independent cinema, blending creative passion with astute business strategies to bring captivating stories to global audiences.
