Title:GEMA Alumni Spotlight – Gordon Bobb (C’93), Hollywood Attorney

What was your first “big break”? Or, what is the most significant experience you have had that has made your success possible?

My first “big break” is when my now partner, Nina Shaw, hired me as an associate in 2000, even though I had very little entertainment law experience at the time.

What is the most challenging part of your job? What is the most rewarding part?

The most challenging part of my job is keeping all of my deals moving forward. The sheer volume of deal flow can be daunting. The most rewarding part is attending the premiere of a film that I’ve helped to shepherd from its inception. That still gives me the greatest thrill.

What is a current project you are working on that you are excited about?

Several of my clients have exciting projects this year: Brandon T. Jackson (Beverly Hills Cop), Arsenio Hall (The Arsenio Hall Show), and fellow Hoya alumnus Malcolm D. Lee (Scary Movie 5 and Best Man Holiday), but I’m probably most excited about working with the African-American Film Festival Movement (AFFRM), which is an independent film distribution company founded by Sundance Award winning director, Ava DuVernay. AFFRM has an innovative distribution model that serves the African-American indie film audience which is an underserved segment of the movie-going audience

Are there any ways that you feel Georgetown especially prepared you for your career?

My experience as a basketball manager under coach John Thompson, Jr. taught me the value of preparation and gave the ability to stay calm in the heat of the moment while others are panicking around you. Both lessons have served me well in my career.

What is your best advice to those who are starting out in your field?

Do your homework and learn as much as you can.

How is the digital world affecting your industry? How are you approaching this transformational change?

The film and TV business is still adapting to the digital world. Over the past few years, there has been a lot of capital investment in digital content creation. YouTube and crowd sourcing sites like KickStarter have lowered the barrier to entry to mass distribution of artistic expression. For my clients, it’s opened up a new distribution platform.

Best Business Advice Received:

There’s no substitute for hard work.

Trait You Most Admire in People:

Honesty

Favorite iPhone/iPad/Blackberry/Android App:

Slingbox

Favorite Georgetown Professor:

Professor Stephen Wayne

Favorite Georgetown Restaurant or Bar:

Champions

Favorite Georgetown Memory:

Sunday Nights at The Basement in The Leavey Center