FULL SPEECH - Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez talks about "El Rey," his upcoming new cable channel

Moody College of Communication and Department of Radio-Television-Film alumnus Robert Rodriguez visited the University of Texas at Austin campus on May 2, 2012 to host a conversation with students and inspire what he called, "the next generation of innovators."
Here is an update to El Rey's status to begin December 2013: www.indiewire.com/article/robe....
To view Robert speaking to UT RTF students at SXSW in March 2013, visit • Robert Rodriguez gives... .
Charles Ramirez-Berg, a university distinguished teaching professor in the RTF program, arranged the event in conjunction with the Center for Mexican-American Studies under the title, "The Future of Latino Images in Film and Media."
Rodriguez, founder of Austin-based Troublemaker Studios, said that many of his innovations ushered original trends into the Hollywood mainstream. These included the push and acceptance of independent films in the 1990s, the rise and explosion of digital film around the new millennium, and the profitable return of the 3-D genre in the 2000s.
A large portion of Rodriguez's lecture centered on the filmmaker's new cable channel "El Rey," slated to premiere in January 2014 on Comcast, the nation's largest cable provider. When it airs, shows will be spoken in English but tailored to Latino audiences.
Rodriguez also said he wants the programming to be so good that the network attracts all audiences, and that "El Rey" is currently accepting pitches.
UT's RTF program was named in the top 25 film schools (#12) in the entire world by The Hollywood Reporter in August 2012.
Negative or hostile comments will be removed and the user blocked.

[@psychocircus7002]

Listen to Robert Rodriguez!!! I've watched all his interviews, BTS videos, and I went out and make my own film all because I listened to him! You can do it! And like he say's, Don't think about it, move forward and just do it!

[@mondovideostore]

@kuarentakilla863cheesy < fun

[@averagejoe6617]

As a young, Latino, bilingual, filmmaker who grew up in San Antonio, Robert Rodriguez is my new favorite filmmaker. So amazing.

[@timothye.2644]

I've had my share of film making failures and wanted to throw in the towel many times. Hearing him talk how you can learn from it and turn it into a positive is very inspiring indeed!

[@delfinoortiz7912]

This is so amazing to watch. This has possible put me on a new path for film making.

[@JaxRwld]

I feel like there is a bomb strapped to the back of the professor introducing R.R. and he was told "If you don't get this intro right, you'll be blown to hell." Seriously though, I love Austin and I love what R.R. has accomplished. He is a pure HUSTLER in it's purest form.

[@bastianrivero]

JaxRwld hahahahahah

[@JorgeNunezFilms]

What an innovator. One of the best speeches I ever heard from one of the greatest filmmakers ever. Amazing.

[@seaniepie]

Shout out from the UK. Thanks for sharing this. Big RR fan. El Rey has so much potential.

[@Morlok616]

"...We made a ....uh 'kickass-er' version of it (El Rey)" Spoken like a true chicano!

[@deadkennedy210]

This is one of the best speeches ive heard..

[@RandomJPG]

So freaking happy I got accepted into UT and will be attending next semester Fall 2013!

[@nikonikosensei6682]

Man, I remember watching this years ago and feeling like I could use something from it, but didn’t know how. Cut to now, my career jump fell apart, I got incredibly depressed, to the point where I started fantasizing about getting revenge on the people who had a hand in this falling apart, drinking daily to not fall deeper into the resentment, and eventually realizing that I had to choose self destruction or start living and walking forward again. I was stagnant for almost 2 years, it was horrible, but I found a way to move forward. I left those dreams behind, got married, had a baby girl and now family is the most important thing in my life. I started learning 2D animation on the side and that’s enough to feed my creative needs. That failure granted me the clarity to see the people around me. And the most ironic thing is that the people I thought were in my way with putting in the hours for my career were the people who saved me when the career fell apart. Life is weird. Now I’ll watch my kids grow, make animated shorts, and enjoy life until I die. Maybe new opportunities will come along the way. Gotta life to enjoy life. Even if everything falls apart on you. I needed almost 2 years to figure things out. You may need more or less. Keep it together the best you can until you do. Keep walking forward.

[@drbozzi]

I am a big fan of Mr Robert Rodriguez, I am a Moroccan-American (Arab-American)Doc/filmmaker and I feel the same way that Mr Rodriguez has mentioned in his speech about the minority and the negativities that surround to acheive something. The Way to do it is ask yourself a WHY question? Then to go there and do it.Thanks Robert

[@chiwonome]

OMG, this is so awesome. This is why Rodriguez is such an amazing person.

[@ishmael802]

Robert Rodriguez is a well of wisedom. And a man that wants to give back. Loved this speaking engagement. Thanks for the upload.

[@deepakjaiswar]

one of my favorite filmmaker

[@soonminkwon9394]

Thank you so much for sharing this! I'm big fan of UT Austin and Robert Rodriguez!

[@collcomm]

Thanks for watching!

[@LburgVAGuy]

Thanks for posting this wonderful presentation!Robert Rodriguez proves that one man can change the world!He has created a blueprint for aspiring film makers and is teaching his craft to the future of the industry!

[@collcomm]

Robert is a very engaging speaker and has been a real motivation not only for filmmakers, but for anyone who needs a little extra push to get started. We're very fortunate at UT that he continues his relationship with the university and inspires our students.

[@babruluddin6562]

man i feel such a connection with this guy my ideas for my artwork storys charectars all have been inspired by him.

[@diazfilms]

I listen to this speech/ presentation daily. Thank you for this.

[@collcomm]

You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed it and find inspiration from it.

[@meattrademark1335]

The first 15 minutes or so were hard to get into because that other guy keeps moving around the frame and taking pictures. PLEASE, sit down. The video is already being recorded...

[@meattrademark1335]

Spoke too soon. I clicked random spots ahead and thought the guy was gone. I can't help but notice him. Does he not understand he can do this off-frame? Damn my eyes! +Thanks for posting and for being a reason this video exists, guy who distracts me.

[@collcomm]

Sorry for the distraction. It's a great speech and now that we have more equipment in place for future discussions, we'll be cutting to additional camera angles next time we have Robert or someone of his caliber speak.

[@meattrademark1335]

I still loved it. No worries.

[@Mrvoidxxx]

+Meat Trademark I had to quit watching it. I tuned in to listen to Robert but the guy constantly moving around him and trying to interact with him was to distracting. I just kept saying to myself... Sit down dude!! Seriously!!

[@benjaminsarcofilms]

THE FOCUS POINT IS ON HIM TOO, I NEED BIGGER CAPITAL LETTERS

[@spanisharmada6460]

Amazing Speech...thank's Robert Rodriguez.

[@djstarsign]

Here are two of my greatest living role models in one video. I took Dr. Ramirez-Berg's film class and it changed my life. I read Rebel Without a Crew and it gave me the confidence to follow my creative muse. And now watching this, I am once again, filled with the same enthusiasm I felt all those years ago when I was a young dreamer. I can honestly say, I would not be where I am today if it were not for the wisdom of these great men. Respect!

[@ChistopherMoonlight]

Thank you so much. This has been one of the harder things for me to track down.

[@collcomm]

The professor who hosted the discussion teaches courses in the study of Latino images in film and Robert's new channel "El Rey" will have shows spoken in English but tailored to Latino audiences. Robert said there's a whole new generation of Latinos that identify as both Latin and American but their identities are complicated and that "El Rey" will showcase their experience.

[@estebannunez6091]

this has given me a new drive thank u for posting this i just happen to stubble on to this video n it filled me with excitement the more i watched and i am lookin forward to roberts vision to come true... i am a begging film maker so this was great advice thank u

[@nh8444]

Goals 14:00 when you don’t know what you’re doing, good. 15:00 others 16:15 waiting to be inspired 18:00 I hope you all fail 18:45 22:20 ashes and high goals 23:30 4 rooms

[@prasadsatawalekar3353]

14:00 min. onward.....THANK YOU ROBERT!

[@AnthonySauceda]

I am number 333 to like this video. Thank you so much for this enthusiasm booster.

[@collcomm]

Thanks for the comment. Robert is an innovator and we are confident that he will deliver entertainment that will transcend audiences from Latino and beyond.

[@jamescc2010]

No beer, liquor, fast food, junk food ads ok Robert! We need to sure our next generation are healthy and smart.

[@collcomm]

Thanks for the comment. Robert is a true visionary and we're proud that he attended our RTF program in the College of Communication. We feel honored that he still comes back to visit with students and share his message.

[@estebannunez6091]

well i am happy i stubbled on this video thanks again

[@TrentLedford]

This speech was really great.

[@robertovillarrealjr.8629]

i'm a latino Animator... You inspired me!!! UT Arlington.

[@drmicheleryan]

I look forward to his new TV channel. I hope we get to see not only great Latino content, but also offers opportunities for Latino film makers who may not have had their big breaks yet. I wish him and all of them all all the best!

[@LburgVAGuy]

Thanks for the reply!This is the longest video Iv'e ever watched on youtube..I just wish it was longer!LOL RR has inspired me to write scripts,edit,score and create video,and I have done it on an unemployed budget!I'm not lying when I say I have seen all of his interviews...and this was the best!I'm working on a 20th Anniversary tribute to the movie that started it all....EL Mariachi!Thanks again

[@stringstheory8634]

ROBERT es un chingón!! ,… I think being latín in USA is different, I live in Germany and I have a Mexican Flag on my backpack, coz of it so many people want to speak or start a conversation with me. I even sell my product as a product that has a Mexican perspective and works. All latinos in USA should be extremely proud of their heritage, I had to travel far and live abroad to start realizing HOW cool it is to be a Mexican Latino . Viva todas las culturas del mundo!

[@RandomJPG]

Yeah I will! I didn't actually get into RTF unfortunately but I will next fall! I already have all the classes I want to take planned out.

[@collcomm]

Our RTF program was just ranked 12th best in the world by the Hollywood Reporter! We'd love to see you on campus.

[@collcomm]

Congratulations! It's very competitive. Be sure to tour the facilities and start planning out your curriculum with student advising. There are a lot of great classes to take.

[@kaelse9102]

I saw Four Rooms on Christmas Day in LA when it opened. I think it is one of the best films ever made.

[@collcomm]

We have some incredible faculty that have worked in the industry in programs like After Effects and we'll be getting into more 3D technology beginning this semester. Good luck!

[@yunjinam352]

This guy is fucking unreal. Much respect and love.

[@Jushwa]

Wow that camera sure has a long battery......

[@collcomm]

No problem. Robert actually asked to keep it small so it would be intimate. We didn't publicize it and spread it through word-of-mouth between a handle of classes taught by three professors.

[@72ndHUMAN]

I loved Four Rooms, well at least three of them. My least favorite room was the Honeyroom suite "The missing ingredient" all the others were gold.

[@braxtonwages195]

Hell, yes that movie is totally awesome. I agreed with the witches story is my least favorite. I mean it’s not terrible but the other ones are more entertaining and more tonally integrated as a whole. It’s good thing it’s the first story and not the penultimate or last story.

[@RandomJPG]

Really hoping I can transfer into the RTF program this August!

[@AlexandraCruzers]

Latina here. Also a novelist, screenwriter and aspiring filmmaker. I'm just a little hesitant about sending work to this network. I understand that he's saying about the network being basically a free platform and that anything can happen. I just wish he'd be a little more specific on what he's looking for!

[@collcomm]

Thanks for the comment. Dr. Ramirez-Berg is consistently rated as one of our most popular professors and an inspiration to his students. What are of work are you in now, djstarsign?

[@didanhtennis]

Thanks for posting this video. What camera and lens did you use to film this? Thanks

[@djstarsign]

for years I made a living off of djing (hence my tag), but I now do graphic design and branding full time. art and music were my passions and unfortunately, those are two areas of study most people discourage you from doing because "you'll never make a living off of it." I decided to follow my passion, all those years ago, and was able to not only make a living, but I made the right choice ;-)

[@mattblackproductions]

Legend

[@collcomm]

It would have been packed here, too, except that Robert and the professor only told a class or two about the lecture to keep it intimate.

[@tazer5]

Didn't these students listen to the speech? most of the questions they asked were answered all throughout the speech and some just bad. I also think the students could've have done better in spreading Robbert's speech at the school more students could've have learn something. Lastly awesome speech Robert and thanks for the upload collcomm.

[@RandomJPG]

I've since decided to room in a co-op if I end up at UT. From the people I have asked and the videos I have seen the co-ops should have enough room.

[@collcomm]

I used the Panasonic HMC-150 to film the video. For the price, it's one of the best quality HD prosumer cameras that can be bought. It's my pleasure to post the video. Robert is currently shooting "Machete Kills" in Austin, Texas (where he also lives and has TroubleMaker Studios) so he stopped in a few weeks before production started.

[@RandomJPG]

Oh believe me I've done the research. My GPA is only a 3.43 right now but I'm hoping to bring it up to a 3.66(I didn't do so good in high school dual credit so my GPA dropped a couple of points. Aside from that though I have made only one B in college). I feel my essays are pretty solid. I don't know. We shall see in June! Also how's the VFX community there?

[@Aprann]

Keep in mind, Rodriguez has every right to do and help who he wants, I was only curious and am not trying to pick a fight. Also, my computer is old so a little less than half of the video I couldn't see...

[@RandomJPG]

Also, speaking of the desktop, any idea of if the dorms are large enough for a VFX dekstop (plan on getting a mid-tower or full-tower case).

[@collcomm]

Here is an answer from one of our VFX professors: "We don't use Nuke, sadly. It uses a different model (nodes) than After Effects or Photoshop (layers), which is what most students are familiar with. If we had more VFX classes, I would love to look into it. Also, Adobe Creative Suite is all over campus and much more widely used than Nuke." -B

[@collcomm]

However, Robert did mention that for the channel to be successful, audiences from all walks of life will need to show interest in the programming and that you can't "beat people over the head with the Latin stick."

[@bobdobb1088]

He's the best. I'm not Latin, but I still think maybe his network idea could be developed even more, to include gringos who bump against Latin culture...that's the full idea. He seems more correct the more he talks about his network ideas. Yeah, the gringo bumper is me, I have a Peruvian girlfriend. I couldn't think of a better leader for such a network. Think of all the ways they could've screwed up a socalled Latin network...but they got the right guy. what a speech, a leader.

[@collcomm]

According to the Hollywood Reporter: El Rey will mix reality, scripted and animated series, movies, documentaries, news, music, comedy and sports programming. The network has entered into an agreement to launch by January 2014. I hope this helps!

[@RandomJPG]

I guess I could always learn Nuke on my own. After Effects I am already quite familiar with but I'm going to take VFX classes to tone up my skills. I already have CS6 and will be getting a VFX desktop build by the time I transfer to wherever it is I end up going (hopefully UT). I've read from a lot of VFX companies on their job listings that Nuke and After Effects, along with homebuilt tools, are used frequently.

[@ArroyoVideo]

El Rey channel, here I come.

[@flexystudio]

im moving to texas

[@Aprann]

thank you for replying. I was worried that I'd cause a big fight LOL!! I was a bit worried (big rodriguez fan that I am) that this was going to end up being a big ethnic thing. See, with me, american is american and I was just worried. But since you explained it, a big ol' THANX!! to you :-) I appreciate good posters like you :-)

[@collcomm]

Geoff Marslett teaches some After Effects in one of his animation classes but Bays is our main person.

[@luxuryrapchannel3080]

Robert please tell your boy to sit down. He about to have a nervous breakdown 😂

[@collcomm]

Question?

[@bxr2k1]

Possibly because it'll be much easier to get advertising revenue on tv than online.

[@TextureKing]

What's this book Robert recommends? Something about Art and Fear? I seemed to have lost this segment and can't find where he talks about it.

[@RandomJPG]

Any ideas on if Nuke(x) is used? I know for compositors (what I'd like to get into) it's widely used along with After Effects.

[@collcomm]

Sorry - I have no idea on that one. I assume it depends on the dorm.

[@enbuscadelsol1]

Pueden ponerle subtítulos por favor?

[@collcomm]

Robert said in the video that El Rey will be accepting idea submissions for the network but didn't provide specifics. Time to Google, ArroyoVideo!

[@maricruzferrari2954]

Love Rodriguez. Check out this interview How to Build a Filmmaking Empire: www.indiefilmhustle.com/robert-rodriguez-interview/

[@collcomm]

Robert requested we not publicize the event so it was only spread by word-of-mouth over the course of a couple days.

[@kyunghee32]

All I can think about during this interview is wtf there is obviously a seat for me in this place. this is rude for both robert and me to have that many open seats.... glad im still watching however.

[@EUREKAPRODUCTION]

i'm in new york..

[@michaelforthriller]

8:04

[@ChistopherMoonlight]

I want in. I'm in Austin. Where do I pitch my show?

[@more_tezza]

there are students walking outta THIS class? REALLY?

[@tetepeb]

He never told who that big comicartist was that challenged him, or did i miss that?

[@RandomJPG]

And one more thing! How many VFX professors do you have? I know of Bays but that's about it.

[@wafflejelly4391]

👋

[@zimfan5]

yes robert inspire the kids so they can make decent movies unlike the crap thats out now, he is the srgt. general and those kids are his cadets

[@jlmusicproductions6105]

Would Rob air low budget foreign movies/ short films? How can I contact el rey?

[@collcomm]

An update to El Rey is in the video description!

[@kenforesha7960]

Moody College of Communication

[@chocloditelensman]

How much coffee did that intro speaker have ??!!

[@ninjazoner]

this guy is unreal

[@collcomm]

Agreed!

[@ninjazoner]

Robert has inspired me to write a zombie film entitled: The Wounded Healer. It mirrors El Marachi in style. I mean years ago when I read his book, I felt that it was really possible for me to achieve my dream and now I've decided to get back on my goal. Also, I was wondering did everyone know he was coming. I thought would think that place would have been packed from top to bottom

[@collcomm]

ninjazoner They didn't know he was coming. By Robert's request, the invitations were somewhat last minute and limited only to a couple of classes to keep the discussion intimate.

[@collcomm]

He didn't. I'm not sure if he remembers.

[@TrentLedford]

I grew up with a lot of Latinos. I haven't seen a lot of Latinos in film schoo

[@Frank-kw3tq]

I like four rooms but I don’t like spy kids

[@Aprann]

Is this only geared to latinos...or is it geared to all film makers?

[@steetvybzrum]

Love the chick at the end.. lol she is so on the money! :)

[@The_Other_Ghost]

When you assume he became a teacher...

[@Aprann]

...????

[@MegaKamandi]

its 2021 the el rey network failed

[@Jushwa]

Moving to streaming which makes more sense anyways