Hollywood producer

talks about industry
Hollywood producer and University alumnus Lary Simpson spoke to students on campus Thursday about the entertainment industry. He covered several topics including how students can get a job, possible business opportunities and the best places to get involved in the industry.
Simpson earned a Bachelor of Science and a master’s degree in biology from the University before moving to California to earn his law degree.
He began his entertainment career as a studio attorney for Tri-Star Pictures before joining an entertainment law firm. After practicing law for 15 years, he decided to join his brother, Don Simpson, and Jerry Bruckheimer of the Simpson/Bruckheimer team until his brother passed away one year later. He then formed Lary Simpson Productions, which has movie projects ranging from big-budget pictures to small-budget independent films.
Simpson began his speech to about 30 University students and faculty members by telling them that his goal is to dispel rumors or misconceptions about how Hollywood works.
“There are three main organizations in Hollywood,” he said. “The studio — which is the bank — the talent and agents.”
One student asked him to discuss the rising salaries in Hollywood. Simpson replied that there are so many venues for a product to be shown that demand is unlimited, causing prices and salaries to rise.
English Professor Kathleen Karlyn asked Simpson to explain what draws him to a script.
Simpson said the characters have to be interesting and it has to discuss the human condition.
Simpson also discussed music and motion picture piracy.
“It’s copyrighted material — taking it is theft!” he said. “It is protected intellectual property.”
University student Morgen Masciana asked Simpson for advice on how someone could get involved with directing.
Simpson replied that a lot of young directors are coming from advertising backgrounds and are starting their careers by directing commercials and music videos.
“To be in the movie business, you have to move to New York or L.A. — period,” he said. “Once you are successful, you can live anywhere.”
He gave another important piece of advice to those aspiring to be in the entertainment business.
“I would never use my own money for a project,” Simpson said. “It’s like pissing in the wind.”

— Lisa Catto