After working with networks such as BBC, MTV, HGTV, TLC, Investigation Discovery, and more, Conway’s reputation as one of the best is definitely earned. While working with the world renowned production company Optomen, she worked on shows watched by millions, including her recent work on Animal Planet’s hit Monsters Inside Me. Part horror movie, part medical detective story, Monsters Inside Me depicts what happen when people fall prey to an infection from a parasite, those nasty microscopic creatures found in water, soil, and even in the air. Victims stories are retold, including how doctors and scientists attempt to unravel each case before it’s too late.
“Monsters Inside Me is definitely an intriguing series to work on. The pitch meeting along with horrific stories of everyday objects and activities turns into the stuff of living nightmares,” said Conway.
As the line producer, Conway is the eyes and ears of the production. She handles the daily production of producing an episode. She is ultimately responsible for overseeing all activities, and for ensuring that the production is completed on time and within budget. This requires her to spend time juggling and problem solving unforeseen circumstances, largely contributing to the show’s success.
“Although there are long days, it’s great to see all of the departments working together with a set deadline to achieve the same goal. From the art department who are working ahead of the director, setting up the scene, to the lighting crew who are rigging the set for lights, to the props master who is making sure we have all of the elements that were mentioned in the story, to the hair and make-up team working to recreate the appearance of the illness or disease on the body, it is great,” described Conway.
While shooting Monsters Inside Me, Conway tries to always be the first one on set. She enjoys making sure the departments are setting up in the correct location and prepping for when the actors arrive. There are normally about 30 people on set, and she is essentially responsible for each of them.
“Esi is an absolute delight to work with. She is tactical in solving all problems that may arise during a busy production day. She is excellent at her job. She keeps herself composed and professional, working through all her responsibilities that are asked of her at a given day. I have full faith that during the biggest challenges that may arise, Esi can manage through it with a reasonable resolution,” said the casting director of Monsters Inside Me, Puja Seth. “Esi exhibits all the qualities necessary to lead a team to work together effectively with minimal hiccups. Her ability to solve problems with a calm demeanor ensures that her team including myself can approach her without any hesitation. Esi is also strong in negotiating fair pricing from vendors, suppliers and contributors. I have worked in the television field for about 20 years and find myself lucky to have a line producer who is not quick to judge but, however, is willing to listen, help and solve a problem with a least amount of disruptions.
Conway and Seth have worked together on many other shows with Optomen, and they find they are a great team. Conway describes Seth as excellent at researching the stories and connecting with the contributors who have been through harrowing ordeals. But it is the entire team that Conway appreciates, not just one person.
“We have a graphics team who work on the series bringing to life the monster that has taken over body, so it’s always fun to see how they have brought the bacteria or infection to life,” she said.
It is also the message of the show that speaks to Conway, and why the seasoned line producer continues to love working on the show.
“The series is able to raise awareness for infectious diseases that can sometimes be lurking in everyday household items. Helping families to get their stories of prevention over to a wider audience,” she concluded.