DIRECTOR/PRODUCER Robert Enriquez is an American filmmaker of Filipino descent whose career in the entertainment industry spans over twenty-five years. As a director and producer, Robert has made many films that have gone on to distribution in more than eighteen different countries and has brokered deals with Amazon, Google Play, Comcast, Showtime, Netflix, and Lionsgate. His projects have placed in top-tier film festivals and received Emmy and Tony recognition. Cash for Gold was his fourth feature as a director.
In addition to being a hands-on filmmaker, Robert is passionate about nurturing the voices of tomorrow and is a veteran of mentoring and building the careers of young filmmakers and artists. He founded and operates Red Baron Management and Films, a successful talent management and production company of over twenty years. His clients have starred in countless films and TV shows such as Run The World, the current remake of The Wonder Years, The Last OG, GLOW, Happy Together, Straight Outta Compton, 22 Jump Street, The Equalizer, The Carmichael Show, Blackish, and many more.
Robert is the West Coast Director of the Sunscreen Film Festival, a festival backed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2016.
Can you speak about your background and how you got into film?
ROBERT: Before I had any idea that I would be a filmmaker I was an actor. Then after that I became a Talent manager with the goal of making films with my clients. This has now become a reality and something that has made it very rewarding for me. It’s been like getting the chance to collaborate with friends.
You’ve directed and produced multiple projects in film and TV. Do you have a favorite project you have worked on that you are most proud of?
ROBERT: Stone Creek I am most proud of due to the tenacity of seeing it through and all the difficulties we’ve had to navigate to get it complete. Also, Escape to the Cove I am very proud of because of how quickly and cost effective it was made. Something like 36 Hours and for $10k.
You are an actor, director and producer now. Can you tell us about projects you are working on now in each role?
ROBERT: I feel like I will try to wear ALL three hats when I can. I love the idea of smaller cast and crew so that is a necessity. I hope to make a film called 3 Days in May next where I get to wear all three hats hopefully. I also have projects like Luna and The Kooks where I won’t Act but will Direct and Produce.
Your film Stone Street screened at Sunscreen FF. How was that experience?
ROBERT: IT was an AMAZING experience and always is. I have screened there many times, and the overall experience is just tremendous. It trickles down from Tony Armer and his team. They really care and really connect with the filmmakers.
What was the inspiration for Stone Street? And how did the project come to you?
ROBERT: Stone Creek was a screenplay that we threw a pitch around 2004/5. I don’t even remember it’s been so long. But the twist ending always gravitated with me and always wanted to tell this story.
Do you have an anecdote from the making of your film that you will never forget?
ROBERT: There are many in this film so I will just give you a mash up! There was sabotage from internal crew members, although just a few, as most of the crew were amazing. An actor almost got arrested, we had a crazy ten-day shoot schedule, no writer or producers were on set, and the rest I won’t get in to.
You also run a production company Red Baron Films. Can you tell us about that?
ROBERT: Back to the earlier question…RBF was created to make Film/TV shows with my clients and it’s happening. It took a while but that’s the nature of the beast that is filmmaking.
Why is indie filmmaking so difficult and what advice do you have for young producers out there?
ROBERT: Tenacity, as I said previously. That is what makes this industry so hard. Most people choose to go into more straightforward careers when the results don’t come. But those that stay with it usually find some sort of success, so the hard part is finding a way to be able to stay with it.
Why is it so important for filmmakers to attend Sunscreen and Cannes and other film festivals?
ROBERT: Your network is your net worth. Relationships mean a lot in being able to stay focused, inspired and to build your teams.
What will you be working on next?
ROBERT: Next up is getting Stone Creek in theaters in the Fall.