Name:
Marlon J. Saunders.

Job title:
Recordist.

Where are you currently employed?
Sony Pictures Entertainment, Culver City.

Current project:
Deadwood and The Simpsons.

Describe your job:
It’s my job to make sure everything is recorded correctly, that the levels are correct, that everything is sent to its correct destination and that it meets all of the standard requirements for television.  I work with ProTools and create ProTools sessions for the mixers.

How did you become interested in this line of work?
Because my dad (James Saunders) is an ADR Foley Mixer, I grew up around it.  I have long been interested in what recordists and mixers do, and the people on the dub stages––ever since I was a little boy visiting Warner Bros. with my dad.  

First union job:
The Phantom at Paramount Pictures.  It was in 1995.

Which of your credits, or projects, made you the most proud and why?
The Gospel (2005).

What was the biggest challenge in your job and how did you overcome it?
Dealing with the producers and Post-Production Supervisors because of the deadlines; they can be very demanding.  Basically, you just slow down, take your time and take your ego out of the equation.
 
What was the most fun you’ve had at work?
Last year’s wrap party for The Simpsons.
 
Job-wise, what do you hope to be doing five years from now?  Ten years?
I hope to be an executive producer.

Favorite film(s):
13 Going on 30 (2004).

Favorite television program(s):
The King of Queens (1998-present).

What advice would you offer to someone interested in pursuing your line of work?
Be nice to everyone, get a mentor and continue to educate yourself on the technology.

Was there ever a circumstance when you had to rely on the Guild for help or assistance?
Yes.  In 1996, when the feature I was working on ended, I needed work, so I turned to the Guild for help putting me on the roster to find work.  I found work right away with CBS and NBC.

Is there anything you’d like to say to your fellow Guild members?
Stay encouraged, keep up the good work and don’t give up.

Photo by Gregory Schwartz