For each day in the month of February, the African American Steering Committee will be highlighting Local 700’s African American members, both past and present, and their accomplishments. We look forward to showing the contributions and influences African Americans have had on the industry.
Name: Emanuel “Manny” Shaw. I go by Manny
What’s your job? Assistant Editor
List the credits you’re most proud of. “This is Us” (Post PA on Season 5, VFX Assistant Editor on Season 6). A lot of my family enjoyed the show so when I was hired I was speechless.
What are you working on right now? I am an Assistant Editor on a Ryan Murphy production.
Who and what are your influences and/or mentors? A lot of people have helped me along the way so it’s impossible to name them all. A few are: Lawrence Jordan, who was the first person I met in the industry. He really took me under his wing and did so much to help me get started.
Nena Erb, who took time out of her busy schedule one day to talk to me, whom she had never met, and has since been pivotal in my growth.
Erin Nicole Wyatt. On my first day as a Post Pa with “This is Us,” she called me and welcomed me to the team. I’ve since had the chance to work as her assistant and she always helps me with editing tips.
Diandra Luzon who was my first editor and took a chance on me.
Paul Alderman who is my current editor. He has helped sharpen my skills as an AE and I have learned a tremendous amount of information from him.
What books are you reading, shows are you watching and/or movies you’re excited about? I read one book as of now and that’s my “Holy Bible.” It’s all the instruction I need for my day-to-day living. Currently, I’m watching “The Simpsons” (Yes I’m starting from season 1). My parents didn’t let me watch it growing up so I’m finally able to watch it now.
What would be your superhero name? Captain Common
What are your black history month memories and any cultural or historical impacts on your life? When I lived in Atlanta, I worked for a professional sports team for two years, and during my second year, the city opened the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Our staff was able to give students of all ages tours through the museum during February. Not only did I learn things I had never known before but to see the impact it had on the students was astounding. Although things aren’t perfect, it makes you appreciate what we do have because of the sacrifices made.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? “In everything you do, Be Magnificent.” Loved it so much, I got it tattooed on my arm.
If you could time travel, when would you go and why? I would travel to 1984 and be the first person to buy the first retail pair of the Bred Air Jordan 1.
What’s a little known fact about you? What are your hidden (or not so hidden) talents? A little known fact about me…my favorite movie of all time is “Mean Girls.” Hidden talent…I can sing a little bit.
What’s your favorite (Black) television/movie moment? It’s hard to pick one as a favorite. Black television has really been a staple for my family and me. The one that makes me laugh the most is when Steve Urkel sang “Feelings” to Laura Winslow in the tree outside of her bedroom.
Was there a television show/movie that inspired you to pursue your career? Yes, “Whiplash” cut by Tom Cross. I really want to meet him someday.
What’s your personal/professional mantra? Personal – “I’m just a common man” Professional – “Be magnificent”
What’s the last show/movie that left you speechless? What would be your dream project to work on? I recently saw “American Fiction” and it was amazing! I didn’t expect some of the outcomes. Loved the story and loved how some of the scenes were shot. My dream project would be “The Morning Show” or “Family Guy.”
Wow, loved reading your story! Thanks for adding greatness to the industry!
Great Interview Emanuel. Very impressive.
Loved the story, The hard work and dedication of Manny man is inspiring to all no matter what race, color, sex, religious background. I will continue to somehow follow is carer and hope to see him producing, writing and directing shows, sitcoms, movies and everything else. Congratulations.