Zentropa Commerzials
In 1999, I graduated from University of Oregon with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, but my emphasis was Electronic Media Production. I received a Global Graduates Scholarship and moved to Copenhagen, Denmark to live with my boyfriend and work for an advertising agency called Sigma, who sponsored my Visa. However, I left the agency when I found a job in commercial production with Lars Von Trier’s company, Zentropa and started as an Administration Assistant. I was responsible for building the framework of the office by creating databases and templates for production paperwork. I also conducted research, assisted the editor in putting together directors’ reels and distributed them internationally.
Within a couple months, I was promoted to Production Coordinator and worked on 4 commercials including one for Tuborg beer that was produced in Sweden. I organized the pre-production paperwork, scouted locations, arranged food and transportation to/from Sweden and worked as a Runner during the production. When the commercial wrapped, I handled all of the reconciliation of expenses.
In addition, Lars Von Trier hired me to deliver the master hard drive of Dancer in the Dark to Björk’s manager, in London, for final review and approval. I assisted in several other departments of Zentropa as well, from coordinating events and movie premieres for Zentropa Interaction to working on interactive projects for TVRopa.com.
I gained valuable experience in both physical and digital production that launched my career.
“She has excellent communication skills and a positive attitude. Erika handled the language barriers well, communicating with our German clients and the Danish and Swedish crew [on the Tuborg shoot]. She is self-motivated, focused, and confident in her decision making. I think she will be successful in whatever she endeavors to do next.”