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.