We’re starting a regular feature on the blog: interviews with BLOCKBUSTER corporate employees.
Today we have Keith Leopard, the Director of Content for BLOCKBUSTER Online. He decides which movies we’re going to buy for the rental service, so he’s kind of a big deal. Keith recently returned from a trip to the Cannes Film Festival.
Favorite movie: Citizen Kane
Most recently watched movie: The Hangover
Last movie purchased: The Bicycle Thief
First movie you remember seeing in the theater: The Jungle Book
What is a day at the Cannes Film Festival like for you?
I begin the day with a movie around 9am and then see 4-5 per day for about a week. I pack a lot of food in a backpack as I usually do not have time to stop for a meal. When I did, it was a ham and cheese sandwich and a diet coke (or Cola Light as they say in France).
I had dinner meetings every night with vendors so I would usually end my day around 1am. That 9am movie the next day came pretty early. Of course I will never get any sympathy from my friends and co-workers as they view me off at film festivals hobnobbing with the stars.
What is your main goal when attending a film festival?
I go to festivals to find movies that would fit into one or more of our current initiatives. This year I was trying to see films that would be good for our new BLOCKBUSTER Premieres series of films. I saw quite a few and hope they show up on our shelves in the next six months or so.
Do you do anything else while in Cannes?
I try to eat as much stinky French cheese as I possibly can.
What was your favorite movie at Cannes this year?
Middle Men — a fun little comedy with Luke Wilson and Giovanni Ribisi.
Which upcoming release had the most buzz?
Inglourious Basterds — Quentin Tarantino’s new film
What is your favorite event at the festival?
Any opportunity to walk the red carpet. I did this last year and I was nervous, excited, and in such awe, I barely remember doing it.
Did you spot any movie trends for the upcoming year while at Cannes?
It felt like there were less “big” movies and more good solid films that people should look forward to seeing in theaters or at home in the next year.
