Amanda Burrell of Team Downey and HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer’ wants to get audiences talking

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As a film enthusiast and someone who has had the privilege of working closely with the talented team at Team Downey, I am constantly in awe of their relentless pursuit of compelling stories that challenge and excite audiences. Amanda Burrell’s passion for her work is contagious, and her ability to identify projects that resonate with viewers is truly remarkable.

There’s no question that Hollywood is in the midst of a slowdown.

Despite the turmoil in the industry, Amanda Burrell and her production company, Team Downey, remain eager for fresh opportunities. As president of the Venice, California-based company co-founded by Robert Downey Jr. and his wife Susan Downey, Burrell openly expresses her strong desire for new projects.

Recently, the company has achieved significant victories, including the critically acclaimed Vietnam War-era miniseries “The Sympathizer” on HBO, and the popular fantasy drama “Sweet Tooth” streaming on Netflix.

Burrell is hopeful that the entertainment industry will identify where its viewers are located and what content they prefer.

“In truth, the audience exists and they’re eagerly waiting for us,” she pointed out. “Therefore, it’s essential that we find a way to engage them effectively.”

What gets you excited about a project?

At Team Downey, we ponder regularly about the directions the industry should take to meet our needs. It’s not an easy task since we deal with diverse projects such as “Sympathizer,” “Sweet Tooth,” and “Perry Mason.” Our focus is on projects that are thought-provoking, complex, and capable of sparking meaningful dialogue with audiences.

For me, it’s all about connecting with the people we work with and conversing with them regularly. It’s those inspiring brainstorming sessions with writers that truly ignite my passion.

You brought up some lofty and complex ideas, as well as propositions that pose a significant challenge. What drew you to “The Sympathizer”?

We obtained the book, titled “Decision to Leave” by Park Chan-wook from A24, and I’m a big fan of his work.

I believe it was particularly enlightening to see an American-centric perspective challenged in this film, as we followed a Vietnamese protagonist and community. It reminded us that at the core, people are just trying to figure out their future and make sense of their beliefs, despite being influenced by various forces. The human element was strongly emphasized, making it a compelling exploration through the medium of cinema.

Why do you think “Sweet Tooth” has resonated with viewers for three seasons?

Jim Mickle, the showrunner and director, approached the project with great ambition. He aimed to capture the unique perspective of a child, full of optimism, beauty, and hope. Watching it unfold during the first season was an enlightening experience for me. Completing the project is bittersweet because it offers a chance for the audience to share in a heartfelt coming-of-age journey with the character.

What else does Team Downey have in the pipeline?

We’re thrilled that Robert Downey Jr. will be starring in the Lincoln Center production of “McNeal” which we’re producing. Meanwhile, we have another project, “Play Dirty,” in the works for Amazon.

After finishing “Sweet Tooth” and “Sympathizer,” we’re taking a closer look at our creative direction. We’ll be investing more resources into producing feature films. Our time in television has been fruitful, and we plan to continue that endeavor. However, with the success of “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” last year, we see a new opportunity in creating feature-length projects that was not present before.

Rapid-fire questions

What are you listening to right now?

As a music enthusiast and a busy parent, I find myself constantly switching between genres to cater to different moods and experiences. My 9-year-old’s recent obsession with 50 Cent has led me to explore the world of hip-hop once again. The raw energy and rhythmic beats of these tracks resonate with my child’s spirit, making our car rides an enjoyable bonding experience.

How do you get focused?

Based on my personal experiences, I’ve found that I function best when I’m multitasking and juggling several tasks at once. It may not be the most efficient way to work for everyone, but it seems to help me stay focused and productive. I know it goes against conventional wisdom, but I can’t deny the truth in my own experience.

What do you do to relax?

In simpler terms, I take pleasure in spending time with my children and hearing about their school experiences. Cooking and gardening are hobbies I enjoy. I find peace and relaxation through connecting with nature, going on hikes, and being with my family.

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2024-07-18 22:31