This summer, MPI launched its largest-ever Hollywood Career Launch Program (HCLP) intern class, kicking off with the Summer Intern Summit in Los Angeles. HCLP is a selective initiative designed to develop the next generation of talent in film. Participants gain invaluable experience at top entertainment companies, immerse themselves in MPI’s Film+Freedom series, and enjoy exclusive access to Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science events through the Academy Gold Rising talent development program.

One of our promising interns, Jose Azcui Gonzalez, a BA student in Writing for Screen and Television at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, shared his experience. Born in Venezuela, Jose’s love for film began early, influenced by his father’s vast DVD collection. He’s also passionate about development, writers’ rooms, and agency work. This summer, he interned at Millennium Media, worked on the set of an MPI Original film, and was selected for the prestigious Gold Rising program.

What are the highlights of your MPI production internship?

Being placed by MPI at a production company that makes my favorite genre—action movies—has definitely been a highlight because I’ve had a tremendous amount of fun and learned a lot! In addition, MPI has provided numerous opportunities to network and potentially work on projects, which is a blessing.

What are the highlights of the Academy Gold Rising talent development program?

Similarly, Academy Gold has been incredible because of the opportunities to expand my network and engage with industry veterans. They do an excellent job of pairing you with both a peer mentor and an industry mentor, and they go out of their way to ensure you have a firm foothold in the business.

What knowledge have you gained in the MPI/Academy Gold Rising talent development program programs that you will take with you throughout your career?

The most important thing I’ve learned at Millennium as a screenwriter is to focus—right from the start—on ensuring a script is high concept. This not only makes a project more sellable, but it also challenges you as a writer to build all of the other elements (character, plot, structure, etc.) around that concept and still make everything work. Academy Gold taught me the importance of kindness in networking—it’s not about establishing connections; it’s about making friends.

You have had the opportunity to work on the sets of MPI Original films. Tell us about your experience. Have you gained confidence on set through these experiences?

I’ve been on film sets before MPI, but those were all film school sets, which are very different. I was fortunate to be an extra on a professional set with MPI, and it was great to see how organized, calm, and cohesive a film set can be. 

How has your experience with MPI positioned you for success in your career?

MPI has given me a solid foundation. My network has expanded, my practical knowledge of development has increased, and I’m much more aware of the different industry paths and how to navigate them. As a screenwriter, MPI has helped me glimpse the inner workings of the industry, allowing me to shape my career in a way that I find most interesting and beneficial. Essentially, MPI has given me a map and a flashlight.

What do you see as the most important benefit of being part of MPI’s filmmaker network?

Honestly, it’s all about the people. Being able to reach out to friends I made through the program and continuing to build those relationships throughout our careers is by far the most important benefit. Making it in this industry is tough as it is, but it’s nearly impossible on your own. It’s essential to have a team—a safety net—and for most people, that safety net will come from their friends. MPI offers you a pretty solid roster of friends!