These days a small act can go a long way. We may think that it isn’t much, but to some people it allows them to survive and it allows them to accomplish what they once thought was impossible. The HBO documentary film A Small Act, produced by Jennifer Arnold and Patti Lee, is about one woman that gave a young boy in Kenya a chance in life to overcome the hardships that he faces just to get his education. I thank director, producer, and actor Jimmy Tsai of the movie Ping Pong Playa, a Cherry Sky Films production, for giving me the opportunity to do this interview with Pattie Lee, Producer/DP.
This film came about unexpectedly. The director, Jennifer Arnold, and I weren’t looking for documentary ideas — it just fell into our laps. Jennifer went to University of Nairobi for a year abroad when she was younger. She became close friends with other students in Kenya and stayed in touch. Since many of her friends’ education had been sponsored, she knew the kind of impact it could have. They are now successful professionals who would not have made it that far if they had not been given an opportunity. In 2007, Jennifer wanted to sponsor a student and contacted her friend, Jane Wanjiru Muigai, (who is in the film) and she told Jen the story of her cousin Chris and his foundation, named after his benefactor. The story was too good to pass up, and the next thing you know, we were shooting.
How do you mentally prepare yourself before beginning a new project?
I do my best to prep logistically for the shoot, and I methodically go through the possible scenarios to make sure I have all the equipment I need. This film was more challenging than most because we had to shoot in this small village in Kenya where we didn’t have access to electricity. We made sure we had extra batteries, not only for the camera, but for the laptop as well so we could download our media cards in the field. Despite all the prep, I wasn’t fully prepared for how rigorous this shoot was. Jen and I had some local help, but for the most part, she and I were doing most of the heavy lifting (literally!). One of the hardest things was having to shoot all day, usually in a language we didn’t speak, then spend all the evening hours transferring footage, charging batteries and prepping for the next day. The next day would be the same. There was never any downtime because something urgent always came up.
What made you decide to major in film in college?
I was torn between the arts and medicine. Chemistry at UCLA helped me make my decision. UCLA film school was extremely hard to get into, but I set my sights on it and was one of the fortunate few. I loved learning about the art and craft of film-making — it was all very magical to me. I especially loved cinematography because it was a way of being expressive and artistic in a scientific and mathematical way.
What do you think was the turning point in your career?
I was working as a gaffer on “The Bernie Mac Show” for DP Victor Nelli, Jr. Victor began directing episodes of the show, and he and the producers gave me the opportunity to bump up to DP. I’m extremely grateful to all of them for this, and I worked extremely hard and proved myself. Getting to shoot a network TV show is no small feat.
What are some of the most memorable commercials and television shows you have worked on? Any favorites?
“The Bernie Mac Show” was definitely one of the highlights. Bernie was a wonderful man who treated the entire cast and crew like family. I also got to spend one summer in BET’s “Somebodies.” first scripted show, That was a lot of fun. The crew was young, and it felt a little like summer camp. Right now, I’m looking forward to shooting a new comedy for NBC called “Perfect Couples.”
How do you think you will benefit from A Small Act’s exposure on HBO?
A Small Act is my first venture as producer and I hope there is to be more. I’m excited to have HBO’s wide audience see the film. I’m extremely proud of the work that I and the whole crew have done on this film. The story is a beautiful one that should be experienced. I’m hoping audiences across the country will be inspired by the film and do their own small act and continue the magic.
What are your favorite hobbies or past times?
I love to cook… and eat. Finding new restaurants is so much fun for me. I get a lot of calls from friends who tell me what part of town they are in and I’ll give them food recommendations.
Ice cream or yogurt?
Ice cream AND yogurt… AND gelato. I love them all!
A Small Act will air on HBO July 12, 9pm Eastern. View the preview here:
To learn more about this documentary film click here: A Small Act
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