The Knockturnal was able to get a firsthand interviews with those involved in the documentary ‘Good Fortune’ to discuss inspirations for the film and the creative process.
John Paul DeJoria (JP), co-creator of Paul Mitchell hair products and creator of Patron tequila, is the star of a documentary titled Good Feelings in which people can identify with the ‘rock bottom’ that John Paul hit when he faced obstacles in his life.
The Knockturnal: Can you describe the process you went through to make the film?
JP: Extremely inspirational and can let others know that the American dream still works and you can go from nothing to something.
The Knockturnal: What is the biggest takeaway you hope this film will have?
JP: I want people to walk away with knowing that it does work and how to go through hardships: being fired, being homeless a couple times, everything, and still have enough energy and believe that you can do it and do it. I think it’s inspirational
Fran Drescher: I think that you can make money and not at the expense of everything and everyone that we should truly value.
Eloise DeJoria: This movie is so meant to be. It’s like a gift. I feel so gifted that he has a legend to leave behind in film form. Josh and Rebecca Tickell did such a good of putting it together.
JP: What I hope for it is to inspire everyone to get their best and to give back. I wish I had known that when I was young because he was rejected like 200 times a day selling his encyclopedias or his printing equipment and he kept going. I remember getting rejected once and I was devastated and I kept it with me forever. I think it’s such a good lesson to be strong in your mind and your heart about that.
The film highlighted DeJoria’s life, citing his mother’s advice to always donate to those less fortunate. Upon losing his brother to a motorcycle accident, DeJoria spiraled into a low point. However, when faced with difficulties, he sold encyclopedias and other objects door to door in order to make ends meet. The film explains how he met Paul Mitchell, his future business partner, and how he was able to succeed in both of his ventures: Paul Mitchell hair care products and Patron tequila.
At the Q&A after the film, DeJoria said, “When I was in high school, I built my first truck. I wanted to drive a car, or drive a truck,” when asked about what he aspired to be as a child.
During the Q&A, DeJoria emphasized the perseverance necessary to be a successful head of a company as well as how to remain motivated in order to succeed.
Good Fortune premieres at a theater near you on Friday, June 24.
