The Producer's Perspective with Jana Wehbe
In this insightful episode of The Ajyal Show, we dive deep into the world of film production with the internationally renowned Jana Wehbe, an award-winning filmmaker and producer. Jana shares her inspiring journey through the film industry and how she discovered her passion for producing. She discusses the crucial role producers play within the industry, detailing the significant influence they have over films and their eventual outcomes.
Jana contrasts producing fiction films with documentaries and explains the factors producers consider when choosing their projects. She offers valuable insights into working with actors and the multifaceted nature of a producer's job, emphasising the importance of research and versatility. Jana also highlights the richness and complexity of the MENA film industry, discussing how its diverse components interconnect and support each other. She also explores the dynamics between commercial and independent cinema and shares her experiences using cinema as a tool for activism, particularly through her involvement with the REEF Festival in Lebanon.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jana Wehbe, where we uncover the behind-the-scenes intricacies of film production and the power of cinema to drive social change.
More About Our Guest Jana Wehbe
Jana Wehbe is a distinguished filmmaker and producer whose remarkable contributions have significantly enriched the Arab film industry. She studied filmmaking at “Universite Saint Joseph” in Beirut and oriental modern singing at the Lebanese National High Conservatory. Jana’s production debut began with the acclaimed “2 1⁄2” winner of the FIPRESCI Award at DIFF 2010. She went on to produce feature documentaries and fiction films along with line-producing several co-productions. In 2009, she co-founded The Attic production boutique with like-minded film professionals.
In 2011, Jana joined the Doha Film Institute as part of the institute’s annual festivals team. She also served as a professor teaching producing academically and acted as the Arab Film Institute’s representative in Lebanon. In addition to her expertise in music artist management, Jana has been diversifying her interests and is bringing productions to the theatre and musical stages. Jana was recently selected amongst four other Arab female filmmakers to receive the 1st AFAC-Netflix Equity fund. She is currently serving as Executive director of the REEF festival (Rural Encounters on Environment and Film).