My Summer in L.A: Turner Spurlin

My summer out here has been one of the most eye opening experiences I’ve ever had.  I’ve had so many different highlights throughout the summer.  Just living in L.A. for a few months really helped me see things from an industry perspective.  There were alot of days spent in the office. Reading scripts or taking phone calls but experiences like this humble you in a way. You understand what it might take to make it in your field, whatever that may be.

There were plenty of fun days too. In particular was a visit I took to The Broad, a contemporary art museum. It was full of amazing art that I wouldn’t get to see anywhere else.  There were strange and interesting pieces everywhere, like Joe Koons.  It was a really wonderful day off. This is just one of the few things that you can do around Los Angeles.  The best part is that you’ll find many things are free, which always helps with the budget.

Another thing that made this trip was the copious amount of speakers and events that Dr. Raimist plans.  At times it seems like alot but it really was great to meet all of the industry people that are also Alabama alumni.  We also got to see many people and go to many events where other industry people spoke. One instance that really stood out to me was seeing Francis Ford Coppola speak at a UCLA student film event.  This was one of the greatest story tellers of all time and he was still talking about how he was a student of the craft, always learning.  

There was also Chuck Gordon, producer of Die Hard. He came and spoke to us about his career as a producer and writer.  He had an interesting perspective on how well your movie does in the States versus how well it does overseas.  It was a very business oriented talk and I had never been exposed to something like that before.

I was very lucky in that I had two internships. One was in an office and the other one was at a rental house.  I was able to get the chance to work on some sets through the internship I had with Vidcam Rentals. These opportunities were mostly in the reality television and promo category. This is not really what I had in mind at first but these opportunities allowed me to meet some very interesting people and make connections in the industry.  I did not shake hands with everyone on set of course but what really helped was seeing how a set, on any level, was run.

I had an interesting experience making a run one day to Bunim & Murray, the comapny that does the Kardashians.  I was told I had to move my car because “Kris was coming”.  I go outside and move my car. I come back into the studio to grab what I need. Then I run back and hop in my car but before I can back up I see there is a swarm of paparazzi behind me. I look to my right and there was Kris Jenner getting out of her car.

Working in the rental house also allowed to get alot of hands on experience with the equipment which is great. This entire experience was something that I learned so much from. This isn’t anything that can be learned in a book.