Frameline to honor consultant Robert Hawk
Robert Hawk, recipient of this year’s Frameline Award, is a ubiquitous presence in the world of independent and LGBTQ cinema, serving as a consultant to hundreds of films and leaving his mark in many ways: helping craft a screenplay, mentoring a novice filmmaker, assisting in the editing room, or even taking on producer duties.
How did you get your start in the entertainment business?
After college, I became the nonunion equivalent of a stage manager off-Broadway.
[...] you pivoted to the film world?
In 1976, I attended a work-in-progress screening of the seminal film “Word Is Out.”
(Director) Rob Epstein called it a “thesis.”
Some consider you one of the first “film consultants.”
There were always gurus, but the difference is, I was truly devoted to independent film.
How do you deal with filmmakers?
In independent film, too many people are protected and coddled.
Honesty is the only way I can be honorable as a consultant.
What is the most typical problem you find in a script?
What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned in your film career?
What are your favorite parts of filmmaking?
In the editing room, I enjoy the process that leads up to locking a film.
You’ve tried many variations and have reached the moment where you feel as though you’ve finished a sculpture.
[...] when you screen at the Castro Theatre — there’s nothing quite like it.
No intention of taking a break?
With all the layers of memories of the Castro and San Francisco, I can’t wrap my brain around how I’ll feel — or even what I’ll say.
David Lewis is a Bay Area freelance writer.
Robert Hawk will be presented with the festival’s highest honor at the screening of “Film Hawk,” a documentary that chronicles his life.
The film will screen at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 18, at the Castro Theatre.