Josh McConkey- Interview

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Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…

Platoon and Full Metal Jacket. As a child born in the 1970s, I’ve lived my entire life in the shadow of the Vietnam War. Those films captured the emotional and moral complexity of that conflict in a way that left a lasting impression on me. They showed the burden those young men carried—fighting a war without the full support of their nation. It’s a permanent scar on our country’s history.

Their sacrifice played a role in my decision to serve. I deployed to Iraq, and when I came home, my experience was very different from what those veterans endured. That contrast has always stayed with me. At every speaking engagement I do, I ask if there are any Vietnam Veterans—or their families—in the room. I make a point to thank them for their service and for the sacrifice they made, often without recognition. It’s a small gesture, but one I believe is long overdue.




What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I grew up in rural western Nebraska, and honestly, I didn’t even know acting or filmmaking schools existed until I got to college. Where I came from, that kind of career felt like a world away—something other people did, not something within reach. So, I have a deep respect for those who pursue that path and for the institutions that nurture creative talent. But I also believe that passion, experience, and storytelling instincts can come from anywhere. Whether through formal training or life experience, what matters most is the drive to create and connect.


Have you ever hated your ambition?



For a long time, I did. I thought there was something wrong with me—this constant drive, the feeling that I was never fully satisfied or content. I used to wonder what it must feel like to just be still, to not always be pushing for the next goal. But as I matured into the person and leader I am today, I began to understand that my ambition isn’t a flaw—it’s part of who I am.

Now, at 47, I’ve stopped trying to change that part of myself. Instead, I embrace it. That ambition has brought me through medicine, the military, storytelling, and leadership. It’s part of my purpose. At this point, I figure—I may as well run with it. The sky’s the limit.


Francois Truffaut used to think that “Film Lovers are sick people”… was 
he right?



Film lovers aren’t sick—but they’re not exactly normal either. They live in the margins, chasing stories that push the boundaries of drama, comedy, horror, and sci-fi. They hunger for the abnormal, for the thrill that only the silver screen can deliver. Film lovers feel things deeper, see things others miss, and are willing to lose themselves in worlds that don't exist—because sometimes, those worlds speak more truth than reality ever could. So no, they’re not sick. They’re just wired a little differently—and thank God for that.


Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?



I see a group of high school kids in rural America—wide-eyed, restless, and curious—sitting in a darkened theater or a makeshift classroom, watching stories unfold that show them a world far beyond their own. Through cinema, they’re discovering art, culture, heartbreak, triumph—emotions and experiences they never knew existed. For some, it’s their first glimpse of what’s possible. For others, it’s the spark that says, there’s more out there—and maybe I can be part of it.


Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?



Oliver Stone. His films—like Platoon, JFK, and Born on the Fourth of July—taught me the power of storytelling rooted in truth, conflict, and consequence. He doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable or controversial. Instead, he leans into it, forcing the audience to confront history, politics, and morality head-on.

As someone who served in the military and has lived through the complexities of war, Platoon especially struck a chord. Stone didn’t just make war films—he made human films, driven by emotion, contradiction, and the personal cost of national decisions. He taught me that film can challenge, provoke, and even heal—if you're brave enough to be honest.


About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…



My biggest dream was to write a book that would have a lasting impact—a call to action for Americans to take command of their own destiny and re-engage with their communities to help shape the next generation of leaders. Be the Weight Behind the Spear was born from that vision, and seeing it resonate with people has been deeply fulfilling.

My worst nightmare? That I’d pour my heart and purpose into writing it… and no one would care. That it would fall into silence, unnoticed. Every creator carries that fear—but pushing through it is part of the calling.


How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?



A good cinematographic culture is essential. It's about more than just enjoying films—it’s about understanding the language of cinema and how it shapes the way we see the world. It gives us context for the stories we tell, the stories we consume, and the emotions we connect with. It’s an appreciation of both the craft and the cultural significance of film.

Without a strong culture, you miss out on the rich layers of meaning and technique that make cinema such a powerful medium. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a critic, or a viewer, being culturally literate in cinema opens your mind to the depth of stories and their impact on society. It helps you see the bigger picture—beyond the screen and into the world it reflects.


What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?



I’m always striving to write with such fluidity that the audience or reader feels like they’re living within the scene. My goal is to make it so seamless that they’re not just watching from the outside but are right there, immersed in the moment. I want it to feel as if the characters are sitting around a campfire, telling their stories—and the audience is pulled into that intimate circle, experiencing everything alongside them.

It's about crafting a natural flow where dialogue, atmosphere, and emotion blend together, so the viewer feels less like an observer and more like a participant in the world I've created.


A big producer gives you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of
one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film
do you choose?



Casablanca. There’s something about that film that never fades, no matter how many years pass. The romance, the sacrifice, the timeless lines—“Here’s looking at you, kid.” It’s one of those rare movies that captures the complexity of human emotions in a way that feels both grand and intimate at the same time.

If I had the chance, I’d want to honor what made it great while breathing new life into it, keeping the spirit of Casablanca alive for a new generation.


Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost
and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?

The men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation are my source of motivation. When I think about their bravery and the price they paid, I realize that there is nothing I won’t endure to honor them. Their sacrifice puts everything into perspective, and it drives me to push through any obstacles in my path, whether in the film industry or in life. I carried the body bags of those heroes. It is my duty to live the life they sacrificed.


Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The
script, the script and the script".  Do you agree with him? 

As a writer, I would absolutely agree—the script is everything. It’s the foundation of everything that follows. A well-crafted script lays the groundwork for direction, performance, and cinematography—it’s the blueprint that drives the heart of the story.



What’s your
most ambitious project for the future?

I do have a very ambitious project in the works right now, but I’m not quite ready to spoil the surprise! Let’s just say, it’s something I’ve poured a lot of passion into, and I’m excited to see it come to life when the time is right.




Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy can be more creative?

Absolutely. The pain of loss, the weight of sorrow, and the lessons learned from both can serve as a powerful genesis for creativity. When we experience deep emotional struggles, it can open us up to a rawness, an authenticity, that is difficult to tap into when everything is smooth and easy. It forces us to confront parts of ourselves we might otherwise avoid, and from that discomfort can come the most compelling, honest, and transformative work.




What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?

I hope to live a long, healthy life, surrounded by friends and family who I can share both the joy and disappointments of this journey with. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the work we create, but about the relationships and connections we build along the way. I want to be able to look back on my life and know that I shared my passions with those I love, and that together, we experienced the highs and lows of this creative journey.

How do you feel about the transition and difference between sport and art?

Is there a difference? If anyone has ever trained and played the beautiful game with serious longevity, they look at it like sheet music with hints of Mozart as it has a fluid unconscious nature to it, like music.

Does coaching soccer and directing films in NYC have similar roles?

Absolutely, 11 men on the field, 11 people on set. It’s the same species with the same projected outcome. To work together but still trusting one another to create with freedom. 

We have noticed you have not attended all your premieres and festivals, is it because of your current work within PBS?

Well, I work in the film sector of the Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting where I produce content for television and work on some cinematic docs for community legacy and for the diaspora. It’s a vital television channel because when hurricanes hit, we might be the only source for the 3-islands. It’s a role that I take with heart;  but I do miss out on some fun or opportunities because of my role. But, there are still many fests that are around the corner in 2025. 

What kind of things are in the future at PBS in the Virgin Islands? What have you been working on?

We have been on location on an island with people who live beyond 100-years of age. These types of moments are vetted and passed down through the generations. Truly honored to feel the 100 years of wisdom in real time. Capturing some of these moments are amazing.

How many festivals in NYC have you been invited to?

Four, so far. The Egyptian American Film Festival, The NYC Flight Deck Film Fest, The Istanbul NYC film festival and The East Village Film Festival. All are amazing and unique.

Do you have a ritual after some of these wins in NYC?

Many go for fancy dinners and late nights. I go straight to Luigi’s, in Park Slope Brooklyn, and bite into my favorite pizza Brooklyn has to offer. Luigi takes out the 80’s rotary dial phone and calls up my mom and he tells her the news. They don’t make pizza guys like this anymore, these moments are priceless and you only get so many of these life moments, so it’s a timeless feeling when the dots connect to the pizza. I get messy with it. Take it all in. 

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

Yes, it was someone I thought would always believe in me.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Knowing that I have competition surrounding me at all times gives me a reason to always stay sharp and focused. But the easiest way for me to stay focused is by knowing that there will be plenty of time for me goof-off and spend time with friends and family when the jobs are done.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

Never, why would it? Jokes, almost every project I’ve done had moments that really got to me. But that’s how I know that there are stakes, that what I do matters, and how I know I’m pushing myself.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

It will always be a blessing if you choose to look at it that way. Talent is nothing but raw energy, it manifests into something depending on how you use it and view it.

What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?

As a director, I would like to improve my ability to communicate and also guide actors in their creative process. I believe I can help actors better if I can learn to put myself in their shoes more and almost hold their hand in exploring the nature of the characters.

What's the worst critic you have received?

I remember a close friend of mine who I saw as an older brother told me I’ll never be anything, nothing ever motivated me more than those words.

If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?

My dream as a child was always to be a racer - a Formula 1, GT, or Indy driver. I try to use cars and stunts as much as I can in my projects, it’s one of the things that excites me the most as a filmmaker.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

The question is what would the color of life be without cinema? Would life feel as vibrant if we didn’t go to the theatres? Would stories feel less rich and de-saturated? Only then would we know how much color cinema has brought to our lives.

A day without a movie is...

A day to make one.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?

Yes, so that I can fund the movie I want to make. The film I wish to make is like a child I don’t yet have, I don’t know when I’ll have it, or what it will look like, I only know that I’ll love it, and I will go to the end of the Earth to make it.

What's your greatest ambition?

Blablabla the Oscars, but apart from that my goal is to elevate the film industry in my country. Setting new standards, showing new boundaries, and showing the potential of Indonesians in this art.

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What's your biggest fear?

My years of efforts amount to nothing, and feeding into my dreams prevents me from feeding my own family.

Does music help you to play/direct, and write?

Music is one of the main elements that guides me through a project. It helps me find the emotion I’m looking for in the film, or if that emotion even exists. I noticed that it also helps actors find the emotions of the characters.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?

Love is universal, and acting on it will always speak louder than any word.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....

Prefer not to spoil it 😉

What really excites you artistically or emotionally?

In a single word: “exploration” – particularly of the human condition and my position as a participant in this ongoing enigmatic circus. I believe in the importance of being lost, of having to use all of our intellectual and emotional resources to find our way in unknown environments.


Marlon Brando said “Never confuse the size of your paycheck with the size of your talent”. Do you agree?

Unequivocally yes!

Have you ever been discouraged by someone about your life\career choices?


Honestly no, I have never been discouraged by someone about my life or career choices. I was fortunate to have parents that always supported my decisions even when they did not feel they were the right ones from their perspectives. They had confidence in my judgements about myself. I think that this is fairly rare. I am fortunate to have a wife and daughter who provide me with love and support. To be honest, I never really cared about what people thought about my choices in life or about my work. Perhaps it sounds arrogant, but I always thought that I alone was capable of appraising my actions, failures and successes in any truly relevant manner. 


Do you think is harder for a woman being a filmmaker?


Yes. In fact, I think that with few exceptions, it is unfortunately more difficult for women to break into most professions at every level of activity. When you think objectively about this, aside from the obvious intolerance such a situation reveals, it is simply ludicrous to prevent the world from benefiting from 

the intelligence, talents and creativity of such a large segment of the population. The same is true of course for minorities of all types who suffer intolerance and discrimination. 


Do you think that fame and money could easily change your own vision as a filmmaker\actor\screenwriter?

No, at least not consciously.  However, who really knows how such events ultimately affect our work without us even realizing it. I think this is the reason it is so important to take risks and explore new directions throughout our journey as artists. 


Who’s the Movie star that made you dream for the first time?

If we are speaking of the great stars of traditional cinema, I would say Peter Sellers. I am thinking here of films like The Pink Panther, Dr. Strangelove and The Party. His unique form of humour struck a chord in me and I discovered that worlds capable of transporting us to intriguing new places could be created in short works of an hour and a half.  If we are speaking about the stars of the video art world, then without a doubt I would have to say Nam June Paik was responsible for my awakening to the power of this new form of expression to reinvent our dreams in altogether new non-narrative ways that injected doubt, ambiguity and uncertainty into the equation. I have Don Foresta and Anne Marie Stein of the Center for Media Art at the American Center in Paris to thank for introducing me to video art in the period from 1980-1983.



Make a wish about your career...

My simple wish would be to continue to explore, take chances and produce work I feel is relevant until my dying breath.


Talking about cinema\showbusiness, how hard is to remain completely honest to yourself as an artist?

It is remarkably easy for me as I am not affiliated in any manner with the traditional cinema or showbusiness world. These worlds have no influence on my motivations, perspectives or actions. 

The film you have loved the most?


To be honest, I can’t really name one film. Depending on my state of mind, my answer would be completely different and would in all cases be totally divorced from whatever work I was doing at the time. The traditional cinema was always, for the most part, simply entertainment to me, a way of taking a break. 

However, there are films which left a trace for one reason or another: Casablanca (because it was my father’s favourite film), Citizen Kane (the use of light and camera angles), Death in Venice (the cinematography and complete synergy of music and image), Love and Anarchy (the wonderful mix of Italian humour, romance and political drama), Annie Hall (the humour and relevance of the portraits traced), Stranger Than Paradise (relevance of the mundane), Blue Velvet (innovative revisiting of the “film noire” genre), Betty Blue (perspectives on marginality) … I could go on … but there is no single film that stands out from the rest. I honestly don’t know how there could be given the immense variety of work.


And now, don’t be shy …. the one that annoyed you the most?


Once again, hard to name one, there are so many. I just don’t see the value of repeating stereotyped narrative formats over and over and over again. If I had to pick a film that is perhaps symbolic of my lack of enthusiasm for this type of cinema, I might choose “Titanic”, because I don’t like the concept of “blockbuster” movies in general, but to be perfectly honest 99% of Hollywood’s romance and romantic comedy films would be on my list of annoying films. The exception to my dislike of these genres would be Italian films of directors like Fellini, Scola, Pasolini and Wertmüller.


Your biggest artistic goal is …


I would say that it is attempting to be true to my values while continuing my journey of exploration and discovery in the new media universe. It has always been my goal. I have had the good fortune to have my still images exhibited worldwide and my videos featured in major festivals around the world. I obviously greatly appreciate this privilege and am deeply indebted to the dedication of those persons who supported and promoted my work over the years, but notoriety was never my goal. I always looked upon “success” as a lucky by-product of my dedication – lucky because I was fortunate to have encountered like-minded people who enriched my life in so many ways and opened doors that I might have never known existed.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

Master carpenter / woodworker


How important is to be rewarded as an Artist?

It depends on your definition of “rewarded”. If by this you mean financial reward, then obviously it is always gratifying when people or institutions purchase works or sponsor projects. I have been fortunate in this way. However, it is fundamentally important that young artists understand that no amount of dedication and/or talent can guarantee financial stability from your artwork alone. You need to be able to fall back on some other income-generating source if you intend to make art your priority. If by “rewarded”, you refer to recognition by the public and/or your peers, then I would say that it is always gratifying, at least temporarily, and can certainly help us over the periods of doubt that we all encounter along our journey. However, once again, it is not fundamentally essential to seeing our work progress in ways we find relevant. Only solid commitment to our journey can ensure progress. 

But beware. Sometimes the rewards of money and recognition are a double-edged sword, constituting unconscious enemies capable of promoting a certain stagnation with respect to our processes and subject matter. The status quo is the enemy of progress.


Do you have regrets?


None. They only serve to slow you down.  I have always believed that my decisions and actions in the past were based on my best analysis of the situation at the time and how that situation affected my goals. I always chose the path that I thought best served these goals. We evolve over time and perhaps who we are today would not have made the same choices, but that is irrelevant because at the time, we were not who we are today. The only justification for regret to exist is a situation in which we purposely chose to not be faithful to our values and goals for some reason. I cannot remember any situation where this was my case. 


What’s the message you wanna express through your art?
   

Truth is elusive and evolving. Dig deeper, we can always understand our existence and the world around us more thoroughly. Always question everyone’s thoughts and perspectives, including your own.

For you a Film is...

about enjoying, entertaining, and imagining new creative ideas and sharing them with the crew to develop a great piece of work and ultimately present it to the audiences. 

What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing? 

I feel a mix of excitement and a bit of nervousness when I’m directing.

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?

I will go to the Movies with a famous Japanese actor, Takuya Kimura, will watch the action and thriller detective film like Sherlock Holmes. 

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

I believe that with positive thinking and strong belief, anything can be achieved on the path to success.

Can you live just of your passion?

I don’t think so. You need money and support from others to live out your passion. 

What's more important talent or luck?

I believe both are important, but luck is more important than talent. Moreover, talent can be developed through effort and practice. Many celebrities fall into the latter category.

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie... 

Blade Runner 

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

No, I haven’t had that experience before. I usually choose things that interest me.

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

A producer, Al Boyd, complimented me, saying, ‘Brilliant work, Vivian. You should be proud of yourself.’ I volunteered to be one of the extras to help others while the actors practiced their lines during the rehearsal.

Are you satisfied about your career?

I would say that I’m not satisfied. I’m still searching for my dream job. I’m actively joining different communities and networking to meet more people and expand my connections.

Do you have a good luck charm?

I believe that I always do. 

Which is the worst moment on set ?

When everyone is getting tired, and you still need to complete filming, it becomes incredibly stressful. With multiple takes and repeated shots, the pressure builds, especially when you’re running out of time and need to finish everything overnight.

How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?

I felt accomplished, honoured and relieved, as it felt like I had completed a mission and was able to witness the entire process unfold.

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

No, I haven’t done anything like that before.

If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to…  the teachers who taught me filmmaking during my time at university film school.

My Master’s film school teacher, Debbie Ballin, taught me so much, especially about storytelling in documentaries and the craftsmanship of creating films. She provided me with significant guidance and inspiration for making my independent film.

Mark Thomas, who introduced me to Debbie as my tutor, also gave me a wealth of helpful advice. He was as a fantastic source of inspiration, offering thoughtful critique and feedback on my work.

Lastly, my undergraduate film teacher, Evangelo Angelo Costadimas, was a great source of support. He invited guest speakers to give us a deeper understanding of the film industry in Hong Kong. He also showed excellent leadership, guiding our class as we worked to wrap up our film projects.