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Most people in Hollywood would agree that the the best thing to come out of of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movement in the past year has been an increased awareness in the need for women in all areas of production. This week I’m so thrilled to talk to Vanessa Parise, Production Director and Co-Executive Producer on the CW’s re-telling of “Charmed.”
Parise was just named One of Ten Female Directors Breaking Stereotypes by SheKnows and one look at her work will tell you why. As production director, she is in charge of overseeing the visual style of each episode of “Charmed.” Every visual angle of the show rests on her shoulders. The colors, the shots, the angles, the sets, the design and the overall feel must match each week.
She also has a strong resume as a director as well, something she hopes to continue to more of. She tells me she’s seen a difference in the number of women working on set and in larger, leadership roles since the recent #TimesUp and #MeToo movements rocked Hollywood. We also talked about the need for child care on set, not just for the stars, but for families at every level of the payroll.
Parise is the mom of a 2-year-old boy and talks about how she manages long days on set by bringing her son with her. She feels lucky to be in a position to able to do that, but not every set is as welcoming to kids or offers child care. I am purposely not just laying this on women on set because I strongly believe men working in this industry should have the option to carry some of the child care burden.
Vanessa also has some great tips and insights for actors about what directors are looking for in an audition and on set. So much is out of our control when it comes to casting, and it helps to hear that from someone who is in the decision making position. She also shares what makes her choose one actor over another. You don’t want to miss this valuable insight!
She directed this week’s episode of “Charmed” which airs on the CW Sunday nights. Make sure you check out her website and follower her on social media to continue to support talented women in the biz.
