The Three Films That Got You Through the 2020 Pandemic interview series enters its final stretch on The Cinematic Schematic in part nine, our penultimate interview, with the Oklahoma Film+Music Office(OF+MO) outreach and production manager, Yousef Kazemi. I talk with Kazemi about how the pandemic impacted Oklahoma’s film industry before discussing how his team pivoted and turned last year’s unprecedented times into a period filled with silver linings. The conversation wraps up with a look at the three films that helped Kazemi get through it all.

Within two years, Kazemi was promoted to locations coordinator for OF+MO where he served in this role for nearly a decade. Now, as outreach & production manager, Kazemi works actively to engage statewide community development in support of the state’s film and television industry through OF+MO’s Oklahoma Film Friendly Community Program while continuing to provide locations, permitting and logistical support for productions filming on-location in Oklahoma. Additionally, Kazemi has an active role in coordinating OF+MO participation at both national and local events such as the Sundance Film Festival, deadCenter and other related industry events.

Outside of his work at OF+MO, Kazemi has written/directed/produced a number of award-winning short film projects including, “Yes, We’re Open” and “The Stand-In” which was named the 2019 Best Oklahoma Short Film at the deadCenter Film Festival. Kazemi also serves on the board for Oklahoma City’s Rodeo Cinema and actively supports local organizations Free Mom Hugs, Other Options and YesLove OKC.

Today’s episode is a great pulse check for all of the things happening in Oklahoma’s growing film industry. Give the conversation a listen to hear the exciting potential in 2021.

Special Guest

Yousef Kazemi

Oklahoma Film+Music Office Outreach and Production Manager

Follow OF+MO on Twitter @OKFilmMusic

Yousef Kazemi’s Three Film Selections

Minari (2020) – Now available to buy or rent VOD

The Prom (2020) – Now streaming on Netflix

The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020) – Now streaming on Netflix

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