Rising from Alfonso Cuarón's personal assistant onwards Children of men to being the Oscar-nominated producer of Rome — the first Latin American woman ever nominated in the best film category at the Academy Awards: Gabriela Rodríguez has become a powerhouse in international cinema and TV. The Venezuelan but London-based producer started as an intern at Cuarón's Esperanto Filmoj production company, and now runs the company.
More recently, he oversaw the production of the high-end series Disclaimer — starring Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Lesley Manville and Sacha Baron Cohen — for AppleTV+, helping to popularize Cuarón's infamous perfectionism — Rodriguez still remembers having to source sixteen versions of dog feces to Rome –on the small screen. Chosen as one of The Hollywood Reporter of 2024's Most Powerful Women in International TV, Rodríguez took the time to share her journey to the top and give advice to young women entering the business world.
What was your first job in the company?
My first job in the industry came during a summer break from college, working at an advertising agency in Venezuela that produced commercials. I worked with them on five different commercials, which marked my first experience on a set. After college I joined Esperanto Filmoj as an intern and have been with the company for 20 years. I started as an intern, then became Alfonso Cuarón's personal assistant and finally ran the company and produced together with Alfonso!
What was the biggest professional challenge you faced last year?
Without a doubt, my biggest challenge has been juggling multiple projects at once. As we completed post-production DisclaimerI also worked on the production of our Christmas short film with Disney, An almost Christmas storywhile simultaneously managing pre-production for Campeón Gabachowhich is currently filming in Mexico. Supervising three productions in three different phases and in various parts of the world and time zones was a huge logistical challenge.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment of the past year?
Completion Disclaimer it was a huge accomplishment for me, as it was my first experience with a multi-chapter narrative format. After almost four years of hard work, I am incredibly proud of the final result.
What needs to be done to improve equality and diversity within the sector?
We need to keep doing what we're doing and carry forward the momentum we've built! It's vital that we continue to explore films in various languages, experiment with different formats, and push the boundaries of how we define our craft. Supporting global cinema and talent at all levels, from development to production to distribution, is crucial. Importantly, this should not be limited to productions with big stars, but should include all creators.
What is or has been the biggest challenge in being a woman in this (still very male-dominated) industry?
I consider myself incredibly lucky because I have always been encouraged and given the opportunity to explore beyond what was in front of me, to face challenges. I've had the chance to succeed and fail, and for that I feel lucky. My hope is that more companies and teams will adopt hiring practices based on talent rather than gender, welcoming diverse individuals regardless of what they look like, what language they speak, or where they are from. In general I think I say it often: diversity tends to produce the best products.
What current industry trends do you hope to see return to soon?
I think we need to be less afraid of offending and more willing to push forward narratives that embrace discussion.
What advice would you give to young women just entering the industry?
My biggest advice to young women, and really anyone entering the industry, is simple: don't be afraid to try. And rigor! Be rigorous in whatever you do. It's the most important thing. When you fully dedicate yourself to your craft, or whatever you are exploring or passionate about, that's when two things happen:
a) You learn what it takes to be successful and decide if that's really what you want.
b) It also brings a deep sense of achievement and accomplishment because you know you gave it your all. Success in this industry is a team effort and is not just about external validation or box office numbers. It's about doing your part and working hard.
Which show, currently on air, would you have liked to make?
It is an intermediate choice The bear, Hack, Shogun AND Slow horses. Each of these series has its own unique blend of storytelling, character development, and atmosphere that feels both authentic and innovative.
What do you watch for pleasure?
Everything I watch, I watch for pleasure! Even though I don't always like everything I watch, I never consider it homework.
What do you do to relax?
Playing canasta with my friends. This is truly my happy place!