Co-Producing A Food Documentary

Since coming back from Colombia, life has been non-stop — juggling two jobs while co-producing a food documentary as well as on a job hunt. It’s been hectic, filled with pressure, countless emails, phone calls, and rejections. I want to quickly reflect on the things I have learnt from working on this documentary as a co-producer.

How I Got the Job

Whenever someone hears you’re working on a project like this as a producer, the first thing they ask is, “How did you get the job?”

For me, it started with a connection I built during film school. I worked with the director of this documentary on my graduation film — I was the producer, and he was the Director of Photography. What bonded us was the struggle and the challenges we both faced and went through and also that he was very hard working and determined to do his job.

After graduation, while I was enjoying my vacation in Colombia, he reached out and asked if I’d like to produce his new documentary. I loved the idea but knew my schedule was going to be busy when I get back. Not wanting to disappoint or say yes then wasting everybody's time, we agreed to bring on another producer to share the role as a co-producer.

That’s how I got the role — through film school, but more importantly, through a relationship built on trust.

How Did the Documentary Go?

Once you tell people how you got the job, the next question is always, “So, how did the documentary go?”

The shoot went as smoothly as it could, considering how busy everyone was. I wasn’t on set every day which annoyed me because I love being on set but when I was there, it was great.

My dad was involved too, which was really special. Everyone thought he was brilliant, and I was proud to see that. My own part in the documentary was quite emotional.

The film explores culture and identity what “home” and what we miss most about it through food. For me, that topic is personal, especially when it comes to family and Thailand. The documentary features people from different backgrounds, giving layered views of how food connects us to our roots.

We also filmed at a restaurant owned by someone I’d met while working as a camera trainee. Red Dog Saloon serves American bbq and burgers based in different areas of London. However, we had the chance to film at the Hoxton branch. He was kind enough to open his restaurant for us, which was such a fun experience.

The Challenges

The biggest challenge was that this is an unpaid project, everyone’s schedules were different, and getting restaurant owners on board wasn’t easy. I remember I emailed over 20 restaurant owners and only some replied but then decline either because of scheduling conflicts or one of the main ones I remembered is we weren't a production company. It’s the classic film challenges: people are interested, but time and logistics make it tough.

I also learned a lot about leadership. I’m still figuring out how to be “the boss.” I’m too nice sometimes something I both love and hate that side of me. It leads to frustration, but it’s part of the growing process. But I also know that it is a strength. I am not too sure about the word boss, I am still figuring that side out.

One thing I’ve realised is that stories are all around you. You don’t always need big names or perfect locations. Work with what you have, and you’ll find something authentic and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this project has been a mix of challenges and fun — but mostly, it’s been rewarding. I’m grateful to be trusted with this role and to collaborate with someone who believes in me. That trust means a lot.