from: Kristina Peterson ~

Dear Joel,

In reflecting upon our friendship of over 20 years, I can think of one word to describe you above all others….Honest.

We met in 1995 on the set of Eraser and you were an immense help and comfort to me as I began my career.  Although I had worked on commercials and small films in Michigan, being a DGA Trainee on a big budget Hollywood feature was a whole new ballgame.  I failed miserably pretty much every day at the start and you told me “If you don’t make mistakes, you don’t learn.”

You also told me it would get better and it did.

You taught me about stunts, safety, rigging and what to look for to keep a film set a safe working environment. Over the years, whenever we worked together, you would continue to teach me about what it meant to be a good person in the industry.  You take care of your stunt teams, your actors, and your crew. You care about people as more than just moving parts of a big machine.

And years later, when we were both offered the opportunity to work on a show with someone at the helm who was not a good person, someone who had publicly cheated on his wife and used people, you taught me about integrity.  When I asked if you were going to take the job, you said, “I don’t want to be around that kind of person.  I’m saying NO.”

I said “No” as well.  I have always trusted you and your instincts. I know you to be an honest man of deep integrity and strong values.  I know any set you run is a safe place for everyone.  From the day playing additional production assistant to the lead actor, you care about everyone’s safety.

I am proud to know you.

Much Love

Kristina Peterson

DGA 2^nd Assistant Director