Profile: Abramson
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JF: Do you ever move people from coast to coast?
IA: There are people in the industry who always go back and forth. I actually just staffed a guy who’s based in NY but I got him to work on a feature in LA for a few months, and then he’s coming back.
JF: What impresses you more, a reel or one film?
IA: I think it goes back to: figure out what you do and just do it really well. I’ve seen a short, concise, clean reel that conveys what your strengths are as much as a film. I’d rather see a short reel that focuses on quality than a longer reel that’s trying to throw stuff on to fill space.
JF: What’s the biggest reason why some people don’t make it in the animation business?
IA: Besides being talented and being good at one does, most projects are collaborations and most projects come down to teamwork. It’s a small industry, and I find that if someone is too difficult to work with – is a prima donna and makes a lot of demands – people would rather find some one who isn’t. Ultimately your reputation can go far. This is a small industry, and I don’t think it ever pays to burn a bridge.
JF: What‘s the hardest thing about your job?
IA: Sometimes it might be hard to find the right person to the right job, and it can be time-consuming, but aside from the regular challenges of the job, I can’t complain.
JF: What’s the biggest perk?
IA: I like that I’ve been able to figure out what I like to do, to work in this industry and with people I like to work with. I guess I’m lucky like that.
JF: Why did you choose to do what you’re doing?
IA: I don’t want to tell people, but I just fell into it. I loved working in entertainment and film, but I just got really lucky with animation.
JF: How do I get to be where you are now?
IA: I could hire you as my junior recruiter. Again, if you love what you do, and you’re passionate about it, chances are it’s going to work out. Finding a job or a talent that you genuinely like to get up to do every day, and to spend your time doing, that’s half the battle. And if those elements are there, then chances are you’re going to end up being successful with it.