The Irishman Producer Irwin Winkler Gives 50 Years Worth of Advice | Impact Theory

Breaking In

Irwin Winkler offers practical advice for breaking into the film industry, emphasizing that no job is too small when starting out. He shares how Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro began their careers in unconventional ways, highlighting the importance of persistence and self-belief. Winkler also reflects on the lessons learned from his own successes and failures, stressing the need to keep forging ahead regardless of setbacks 1.

   

Techniques

Winkler discusses the strategies that have enabled him to get numerous films across the finish line, including leveraging studio vulnerabilities and thinking on his feet. He recounts the making of Raging Bull and how he used the studio's desperation for another Rocky film to get it produced 2.

   

Influences

Winkler's creative vision has been shaped by various influences, including his early education and significant relationships. He credits a professor at NYU for teaching him how to read and understand writing, and his wife for being his greatest supporter and critic 3.