Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alessia Cruci. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alessia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The very first short film I’ve produced has thus far been the most meaningful one. It was early summer when the creatives reached out to me to produce the short film “D-Day for Denise.” I’d never produced a short film before, and I had barely even been on set, yet the excitement that that project brought me was incomparable. Just a few months prior, I had learned what a creative producer does, and I decided to pursue that, so this was my shot at getting out there and working on my craft.
While now I’ve grown, and there are hundreds of things that I would’ve done differently, that was such an essential experience to me as it was my confirmation that that is my vocation. That project set me aside from my peers and was the springboard for future projects.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My primary responsibility as a producer is to oversee and manage the entire production process, from conceptualization and development to financing, production, and distribution. I work closely with the director, writers, and other key individuals to bring the project to life, and I ensure they have all the tools they need to succeed in their fields. I early on learned how to secure financing through various means, such as investors, crowdfunding, or grants. Once funding is secured, I work with the director (who in indie movies is often the writer as well), and together we assemble the creative team as well as manage the production process, including scheduling and budgeting.
Producing is fascinating and rewarding because it allows me to bring captivating stories to the screen and leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

This is a great question; I think that with creative producing, many people – creatives and non – struggle to understand how such a logistical job can be creative. I feel passionate about this as I consider myself highly creative, even if most people disagree.

While producing may not involve direct creative expressions like writing or directing, it requires a keen understanding of storytelling, aesthetics, and the overall vision of a film.

During the development stage, I work closely with writers, directors, and other creatives to refine the script, develop the characters, and establish the film’s unique style and tone. This collaborative process involves making creative choices that will ultimately determine the artistic identity of the film.

During production, I actively engage in creative decision-making, such as participating in casting sessions, contributing to set design choices, and collaborating with the director to ensure the artistic vision is realized.

In the post-production phase, I love to provide creative input and feedback on the early cuts, the music, and the color of the movie. At the same time, I also make sure that the film maintains its artistic integrity and meets the intended creative vision.

All of this is to explain that, as a film producer, I make artistic choices throughout the filmmaking process. While my role may be more behind the scenes, my creative influence is instrumental in bringing a film to life and making it a compelling and visually engaging piece of art.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Ton!!! I love reading and learning how to become a better producer and, in general, a better person. YouTube channels like Actors on Actors and The Round Table have been great resources for me. I also go to as many Q&As around town as possible – I love hearing filmmakers talking about their movie and their experience in bringing them to life.
A few months ago, I wrote an article on my website about my favorite books from a producer’s standpoint. The article features not only film books but also creative and business books that have helped me develop my skills and shape my creativity. You can check the article here: https://www.alessiacruci.com/blog/my-favourite-books

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alessiacruci.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/alessia.cruci
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessiacruci/
• Other: Second instagram account: www.instagram.com/producedbyalessia

Image Credits
Citadel Premier Official Red Carpet Photo CIFF – Cleveland International Film Festival