As a child, made Super 8 movies

After college, promised parents to attend USC as a joint film and law student; met Alan J. Pakula at a party

Began showbiz career as assistant to director Alan J. Pakula on "Comes a Horseman" (1978)

First credit, as associate producer on the Pakula-directed comedy "Starting Over"

Scouted Europe looking for an actress to star in "Sophie's Choice"; recommended Magda Vasaryova; financing fell through; Meryl Streep later cast in the title role of the 1982 feature