Beyond NYU: Bridging the gap between business and film

From Film Festivals to Fortune 500: Alejandra Parody’s Unexpected Journey

Alejandra Parody, a Tisch and Stern alum, wasn’t always destined for the boardroom. Her initial passion was storytelling, nurtured at NYU’s Film & TV program. This ignited a journey marked by film festival nominations and, surprisingly, a successful consulting career at Deloitte.

In a recent interview with WSN, Parody reflected on her unconventional path, how her thesis film landed her industry connections, and why she chose to pivot to business.

Finding Her Voice in Film:

Parody’s love for storytelling blossomed early. “People would always ask me to retell things,” she says, reminiscing. “I guess I use a lot of expressions with my face!” This natural talent led her to experiment. In high school, she convinced teachers to accept video essays instead of traditional writing. “It seemed more fun to me,” she explains. This early exploration sparked an interest in translating words into visually captivating narratives.

While initially aspiring to be an actor, a stint at the New York Film Academy shifted her perspective. Parody realized she craved more control, yearning to guide the story instead of simply inhabiting it. This realization propelled her towards filmmaking.

“Rosa”: A Catalyst for Career Growth:

After graduating from Tisch, Parody released “Rosa,” her stunning thesis film. A King Award win and a finalist spot at NBCUniversal Shorts Festival catapulted the film into the spotlight. This success wasn’t just about accolades. “You have to take advantage of those wins,” Parody emphasizes. “Doors open fast, then just as quickly close.”

“Rosa” became a springboard, connecting Parody with key figures in the industry, including future collaborator Ben Sottak.

Navigating Industry Disruptions:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the film industry, prompting Parody to consider a shift in career trajectory. “I didn’t want to just react to what was happening,” she says. “I wanted to be proactive.”

A two-year MBA program at Stern School of Business equipped Parody with the strategic insights she craved. This led her to a full-time position at Deloitte, where she leverages her industry knowledge to advise technology, media, and entertainment companies.

Double Focus: Business & Artistic Vision:

Parody’s professional journey doesn’t overshadow her creative aspirations. She remains deeply invested in filmmaking and continues to explore her Latin American identity through her work.

She aims to produce more Latin-inspired horror and sci-fi films, showcasing strong female protagonists.

Parody’s most recent co-directed feature, “Martillo,” explores themes of witchcraft and colonialism, further demonstrating her commitment to telling compelling stories rooted in her cultural heritage.

Embracing Female Strength:

Parody’s films frequently feature strong, complex women, a deliberate choice she explains stems from both observation and personal experience. “I see less of them on screen,” she admits, “and I want to fill that gap.” She finds inspiration in challenging gender roles and exploring “what a woman would do in those situations,”

Alejandra Parody’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability and pursuing multifaceted passions. From film festivals to Fortune 500 boardrooms, she continues to make her mark, both as a storyteller and a strategist.