Heather Wilk – Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It

We had the opportunity to interview Heather Will, the producer of Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It (A Film about Gary Mule Deer). Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It is an official selection of the 12th annual Utah Film Festival. 

What was the inspiration to make Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It?

Gary Mule Deer himself.  Gary spent decades making people laugh and we thought it was about time the next generation knew about him and his hilarious comedy. 

From idea to completion, how did Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It change?  

The film took 6 years to complete. Yes, six years. The biggest change came when deciding whether or not to use animation as a story device. Spoiler: we did not use animation. 

What was the biggest challenge in getting this show made? 

Knowing when to finish.  In documentaries, you can get carried and just keep going.  We needed to feel good that we had the complete story and not get stuck in the ever-revolving door of more footage just to have it.

What do you think is the most important takeaway from Showbusiness is My Life, But I Can’t Prove It?

I hope people come away from this film redefining success. Some comics may have made it bigger than Gary,  but at 83 he is still performing 180 shows a year and making people laugh. If that isn’t success, I don’t know what is. 

If you could have a do-over with your film is there anything that you would do differently? If so, what would that be?

The process wasn’t always easy, and while there were challenges I do not wish to relive, they gave us a film I’m proud of.  No regrets. 

What do you have next in the works?

I am in post-production on my directorial debut. A feature documentary about the Cliburn International Piano Competition. Thirty of the world’s most gifted musical talents from all over the globe travel to Ft. Worth, Texas, to compete in the World Cup of classical piano.

How can we learn more about you and your projects?

I’ll very rarely post on social media @Heathergwilk (insta) or linkedin.  I would love to connect with other filmmakers in Utah. Reach out and I’m happy to share what is going on!