MONDAY MORNING HOLLYWOOD – EXTRA!
The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles is in full swing and Board of Directors Member Shreedhar (Shree) Kothari is smack dab in the middle of it. As the Vice President of the Accounting firm Gumbiner Savett and an adventurer and movie lover who came to the US from India on a shoe string, Shreedhar is the perfect festival fit. The festivities commenced on April 12 and will continue through April 17th at the ArcLight Hollywood.
What was the first job you ever had? I worked with a local Chartered Accountant in India.
What made you pursue work in the movie business? Last year, the IFFLA board of directors was looking for a new member, who had financial expertise and an entertainment background. They were looking for someone at a firm which included actors and screenwriters, film and television studios, foreign entertainment companies, and independent record labels.
What was your first job in the movie/TV business and how did you get it? My first entertainment client was a local company. They made trailers for the movies and DVD releases. It made me realize how many people are involved in the entertainment industry that aren’t actors, directors or producers.
Do you have a favorite story from the trenches? Not one in particular, but I have met a number of celebrities being part of IFFLA. Outside of their celebrity status, they are normal people. I enjoy conversing with them about their films and upcoming work and they are very gracious.
What do you do on a typical day off? Play tennis, bicycle, watch movies and enjoy meeting friends and spend time with my family.
What inspires you? Stories about entrepreneurs and people with success in both work and personal life.
What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers? It is a tough business and patience is a great virtue. Be passionate about what you believe in and success will come your way.
What are you doing now? Busy with the tax season…it’s the final stretch!
What do you hope to be doing ten years from now? I came to the US with two bags and a dream of being a successful CPA. I enjoy what I do, helping my clients. I hope to keep doing this for a very long time.
To learn more about the The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles visit www.indianfilmfestival.org
To learn more about Sheedhar (Shree) Kothari and his firm visit www.gscpa.com
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