The Location Managers Guild International (LMGI) is the largest organization of Location Managers and Location Scouts in the motion picture, television, commercial and print production industries. Their membership plays a vital role in the creativ
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34 • LMGI COMPASS | Winter 2021 we improvise! And we landed in a new location—cyberspace!" Before tossing to host Isaiah Mustafa, Fantasia had his camera operator zoom out to reveal that he was only wearing shorts! Dapper host Mustafa welcomed the captive home audience noting that he was coming to them "…via that special place in your house that you have been glued to for the past seven months while bleaching your produce," setting the jaunty tone he would carry throughout the proceedings. "Before we landed in our current Zombie Apocalypse, the expert work done by location professionals brought the very best of fi lms, TV shows and commercials. Tonight, we also honor some very special artists!" Speaking from an ironically mundane offi ce in Soho, director Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Baby Driver) introduced writer, producer and director Christopher McQuarrie (The Usual Suspects, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Mission: Impossible – Fallout) as the recipient of the Eva Monley Award, named for the fabled pioneer location professional who had worked alongside John Huston, John Ford and David Lean. "I want to give big props to my good friend McQ for this award. His fi lms thrill me and his use of locations thrill me!" " Gorgeous locations in these clips ... the show is going great, really enjoying it!… Great LMGI show professionally produced and fun to watch!... I even like the commercials…" "The Gary Sinise Foundation supports the real heroes in our lives and their families," said Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds) as he introduced this year's Humanitarian Award recipient—his friend and fellow actor, Gary Sinise. His foundation offers a variety of programs, services and events for wounded veterans of the military and fi rst responders. "If the past seven months have taught us anything," said PRESENTER NOAH WYLE PRESENTER EDGAR WRIGHT PRESENTER SYLVIA HOEKS Mantegna, "it's that we owe so much to those people who live their lives with one goal—protecting the rest of us." Sinise graciously accepted the award, sharing that there is a long tradition of military service in his family, and his interest in vets was not inspired by his role in Forrest Gump! "We owe a great debt to our freedom fi ghters … they sacrifi ce so much. I will try to do my bit to always remember where our precious freedoms come from … and are never taken for granted." The LMGI is proud to honor Gary Sinise for his dedication and commitment. " Gary Sinise and presenter made me tear up!… Love the work he and his organization are doing… Sinise is a treasure... An excellent and truly deserving honoree. Well done, LMGI… He doesn't seek out publicity. It's just a true heartfelt service and commitment for him…" Los Angeles hometown favorite Veronique Vowell/ LMGI was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by two production designers with whom she has worked over the years. "Give her a location challenge and she will take you to places you never imagined," said Jessica Kender, also praising Vowell for her talent, humor, smarts and great scout lunches. Corey Kaplan said she "considers V a creative producer… The artist in her fi nds locations with intrigue for the sake of good storytelling." " Great tribute from the designers and great speech… Congratulations!.. CONGRATULATIONS Veronique!!!'' "It's hard to believe I've been at this for 30 years!" said Vowell, clearly touched by the Guild's gesture of recognition. Known for her many credits, including Cold Case, Scandal and Little Fires Everywhere, Vowell refl ected on a time before cell phones. "When I started, all I had was curiosity, ambition and determination, along with a polaroid camera and a roll of quarters for the pay phone. Much has changed from those early days, but what hasn't changed is what I love most— hunting for interesting locations to tell interesting stories." V also thanked the many assistants she has mentored and trained over the years. "V is sooo deserving of this award… Just like her to bring in others to share in her award… Your big heart shines … good job Veronique… V—you are amazing!" Location manager Tim Stacker/LMGI was proud to introduce his hero for the Trailblazer Award. "Spike Lee is PRESENTER BLAIR UNDERWOOD