2 Minutes With ... Maureen O'Keefe Mailloux, Trailer Editor at Big Picture

Maureen started her career as an assistant editor for the show Sci-Fi Buzz, then moved to an agency called BD Fox and Friends, where she cut trailers and TV spots. Later, she joined Harley’s House/Guillotine Editorial/Union Editorial, working on behind-the-scenes specials, short films, trailers and TV promos. After a stint at Ignition Creative, she joined Big Picture, where she’s served for the past 14 years.

We spent two minutes with Maureen to learn more about her background, creative inspirations and recent work she’s admired.

Maureen, tell us…

Where you grew up, and where you live now.

I grew up in a small town in western Massachusetts called Agawam—the namesake of the Native Americans who settled the area. We would say “grinder” (sub), “tag sale” (yard sale), “package store” (liquor store), “wicked” (of course we said wicked, it’s Massachusetts), along with other words I removed from my vocabulary after one month living in L.A.

I now live in Marina del Rey, with my kids Lucas (17) and Skylar (14) and my husband John. I also have an awesome (but scaredy-cat) 4-year-old shepherd mix named Ruby.

Why you pursued a career in entertainment.

I was always fascinated with the “how everything was made” side of film and TV. I noticed continuity errors at a very young age, and the one that sticks in my head is The Wizard of Oz.

Towards the end of the film, Dorothy’s hair changes lengths about for different times before the witch melts. In my head, I was like “no way would I ever have let that go if I was the editor.” I also used to sing and play (very basic) guitar, so the music and sound design aspect of editing was a huge love of mine from very early on.

Three movies/TV shows you couldn’t do without, and why.z

The Wizard of Oz – Fond memories of my mom (and my future career as an editor).

The Exorcist – I saw this movie way too young and it scarred me for life, yet I was obsessed with it and watched it year after year. 

CODA – I loved everything about this. Especially the fact that the main character had an amazing voice, but no idea about that, because nobody really “heard” her sing before.

Your favorite movie trailer or poster.

Little Children. It is hands down the coolest trailer I’ve seen. It has incredible sound design and minimal dialogue. The characters’ facial expressions and questioning/suggestive glances tell you everything.

One of your favorite projects you’ve ever worked on, and why. 

A recent trailer I worked on for HBO called Rain Dogs is a favorite. It was a bit of a sleeper in the U.S. It’s about a single mom with a dysfunctional, abusive best friend—and I had to make it appear to be a comedy, and it was, to a point, but it was also very dark and gritty. British humor at its best!

A recent project you’re proud of, and why. 

The Good Nurse. It was recently nominated for a Golden Trailer in the thriller category (yay!). 

I loved working on it since it was a different genre than usual. Comedies and dramas have been the norm for me … so cutting a thriller was a blast. The sound design and storytelling in it was particularly fun.

One thing about how entertainment marketing is evolving that you’re excited about.

The fact that marketing is expanding way beyond just traditional teaser/trailer/TV spots. That was the norm in this industry since I started back in the late ’90s. It’s become so multi-dimensional, with all the new streaming services, social platforms and internet outlets. I’ve always loved to think outside the box, and these new platforms are more welcoming to something funky and unique. 

Someone else’s work, in entertainment or beyond, that you admired lately.

Kristin Hannah. She’s brilliant and I’ve read all of her books. There are two that stand out: The Nightingale and The Great Alone. Treat yourself. She’s an impeccable researcher and writes historical fiction as well as regular fiction. I’m always left wanting more.

A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring

The Last of Us. I was seriously blown away by this series. The first episode alone was jaw dropping, and it hooked me for the entire run. Those mushroom creatures gave me nightmares!

A visual artist or band/musician you admire.

I have a girl crush on Alicia Keys. I love her voice and her INSANE piano skills, but mostly I admire her as a person and activist.

Your favorite fictional character.

Elmo. He makes me smile and remember when my kids were lil’ munchkins. My son used to sound just like him when he was little, but luckily found his manly voice over the years.

Someone worth following in social media.

Since I have the sense of humor of a 12-year-old boy, I tend to watch all the reels on Instagram with people slipping on ice, falling, tripping, careening off a mountain …  you get the idea.

Your main strength as a marketer/creative.

Probably the storytelling. Whether I’m telling it straight, cheating it or turning it inside out, it’s something I thrive on. But, I also love doing sound design to really punctuate different moments and create a mood.

Your biggest weakness.

I’m a HUGE over-thinker. I even just overthought that sentence…

Something people would find surprising about you.

Not many people know that I’m a brain cancer survivor of four years (and counting!).

One thing that always makes you happy.

Experiencing nature. Especially with my husband, kids and pup.

One thing that always makes you sad.

Saying goodbye to my loves and witnessing others saying goodbye. I’m a sap, and I cry even if I don’t know them.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in entertainment.

I’d be an acupuncturist