Interviews & Reviews

Enrico is a London-based film director and composer working primarily in science fiction and music-driven cinema. His work is defined by a precise fusion of image, sound, and design, where narrative, rhythm, and atmosphere are conceived as a single system. Moving seamlessly between futuristic worlds and intimate human moments, he builds films that feel engineered in form yet deeply emotional in impact. With a background spanning cinema, music composition, and advanced production techniques, Enrico approaches filmmaking as a total language — sculpting light, space, movement, and sound to create immersive audiovisual experiences. His films and music videos are marked by strong visual identities, controlled palettes, and soundtracks that drive both structure and emotion.

When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

I realized I wanted to be a filmmaker and writer gradually, not in a single “light-bulb” moment. It started with storytelling as a way of understanding the world around me — observing people, emotions, silence, and contradictions. Writing came first, as a private space where ideas could exist without limits. Film followed naturally, because it allowed those inner worlds to become tangible: images, sound, rhythm, and atmosphere working together. Over time, I understood that filmmaking wasn’t just about telling stories, but about creating experiences — spaces where audiences can feel, question, and recognize parts of themselves. That realization never stopped evolving; it still grows with every project I take on.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

I remember it in a very childlike way — the smell of popcorn, holding the box with both hands, my feet barely touching the floor. The screen felt huge and magical, almost overwhelming. I didn’t fully understand the story, but I remember the excitement, the wonder, and that feeling of being somewhere else for the first time. It was pure emotion, and it stayed with me

If you should change country where would you like to work?

Honestly, today I feel like geography matters a lot less than it used to. With the way we work now, it’s easier to cross borders creatively without always doing it physically. That said, after spending three months in New York City last year, it left a real mark on me. The energy, the diversity, the craziness ...— it feels like a place where stories collide and ideas move fast. If I had to choose one country to base myself in, (USA) New York would most likely be my first option, while still staying open to working globally.

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

Two films that marked my life in very different ways are Blade Runner and Cinema Paradiso. Blade Runner shaped how I see atmosphere and world-building — the idea that a film can feel like a living organism, where mood and questions linger longer than answers. Cinema Paradiso affected me on a more emotional level; it’s about memory, loss, and the pure love of cinema itself. One pushed me toward imagination and future worlds, the other anchored me to nostalgia and human connection. Together, they reflect the two forces that still drive my work.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

If you find a school that’s hands-on, production-heavy, and plugged into real sets, it’s a powerful accelerator. But if you’re already making work, building a team, and learning through doing, then school becomes optional — and sometimes the better route is workshops + set experience + making short films nonstop. Basically: school is a tool, not a gate. The real “school” is the next project.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

Yes... sometimes. Ambition can be heavy. It pushes you forward, but it also keeps you restless, never fully satisfied, always questioning if you’re doing enough or going far enough. There are moments when I wished things could feel simpler, quieter. But I’ve learned that the same ambition I’ve struggled with is also what gives my work direction and meaning. I don’t see it as something to escape anymore, more like something to understand and learn how to live with.


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

In a way… yeah !! but I think Truffaut meant it with affection, not cruelty.
Film lovers can be “sick” in the sense that we’re obsessed: we watch too much, feel too much, analyse everything, and sometimes we prefer the intensity of cinema to the calm of real life. We carry scenes like memories, and we measure life with images and soundtracks in our heads. That’s not exactly “normal.”
But if that’s a sickness, it’s also a beautiful one. Because that obsession is really just sensitivity,  a need to understand people, emotion, time, love, loss. Cinema becomes a language for feelings that are hard to explain otherwise.
So was he right?  Maybe. But it’s the kind of “sick” that creates art — and I’d rather have that than be completely healthy and emotionally asleep.

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

I see a warm light in the dark, memories drifting on the screen, emotions moving quietly. Cinema feels intimate and timeless and somehow it always brings me back to my mother, to a sense of safety, love, and shared moments that still live inside me.

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

I’d say Andrei Tarkovsky taught me the most. His work showed me that cinema doesn’t need to rush or explain itself.. it can breathe, linger, and exist almost like a memory or a dream. From him, I learned the value of silence, time, and spiritual depth, and that trusting the audience’s intuition can be far more powerful than spelling everything out.

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

My biggest dream is to create films that leave a lasting imprint, where image and sound are inseparable. Because I compose most of the soundtracks myself, I’m always searching for a bonded emotion between visuals and music, something that feels unified and deeply personal, and stays with the audience long after the film ends.
My worst nightmare would be losing that connection, making work where sound and image no longer speak to each other, or where emotion is replaced by formula. That would mean losing the core reason I create.

How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?

It’s essential!!  but not in an academic way. A strong cinematographic culture isn’t about knowing titles or dates, it’s about training your sensitivity. Watching films from different eras and voices teaches you rhythm, silence, framing, and emotional timing. It helps you understand what has already been said, so you can decide what you want to say differently. For me, cinematic culture is a living dialogue with the past, something that feeds intuition, not something that limits it.

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

I’d like to keep improving my ability to simplify, to say more with less. As a filmmaker and writer, that means trusting intuition, refining rhythm, and allowing space for silence without losing emotional clarity. I also want to grow in collaboration, learning how to translate what’s inside my head into a shared language with actors and crew, while staying honest to the original emotion that started the story.

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

I would choose La Dolce Vita. Not to modernize it, but to reinterpret its emotional core, the sense of beauty, emptiness, and longing beneath the glamour. It’s a film that understands silence, faces, and moments in between, and I’d want to honour that spirit while translating it into a contemporary emotional language, especially through image and sound working as one.

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

My Wife. She’s the quiet anchor behind everything I do. Even when I feel lost or discouraged, thinking about her belief in me brings me back to centre. She reminds me why I started, not for recognition, but for love, honesty, and the need to create something meaningful.

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

I agree with him, a strong script is the foundation of everything. But for me, a great script multiplied by three still needs the right soundtrack to truly exist on screen. Sound and music give the script a pulse; they shape emotion, rhythm, and memory in ways words alone can’t. Without that emotional layer, even the best-written story risks staying on the page instead of becoming a living experience.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

My most ambitious project is to develop a film where storytelling, image, and sound are conceived as a single language from the very beginning. I want to create a deeply immersive cinematic experience, one that moves between reality and inner worlds, where music isn’t added afterward but born with the story itself. It’s about building a film that feels less like something you watch, and more like something you remember.

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

I agree. Sadness, or melancholy, creates space. It slows you down, makes you listen more carefully, feel more deeply. In that state, emotions are closer to the surface, and creativity becomes more honest. It’s not about suffering for its own sake, but about sensitivity... melancholy sharpens perception, and that’s often where the most truthful ideas are born.

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

I wish myself the courage to stay honest, to keep listening to my intuition even when it’s uncomfortable. To never lose sensitivity, curiosity, or the ability to be moved. And to keep creating work that comes from a real place, where image, sound, and emotion remain deeply connected.

Playwright, theatre and film director. Currently he is the artistic director of the Budapest inner city theatre Komédium Theatre, the artistic director of the Pécsvárad Castle Theatre operating in the summer season and dramaturge at the Magyar Theatre in Budapest. Now the artistic director of the New Theatre, Budapest, and working in the Hungarian Cultur Academy.

The biggest challenge of being an actor\director\ screenplayer is…


For me, screenwriting and directing are one and the same, because I direct the films I write myself. Directing is similar to the work of a conductor: you have to choose artists and professionals for each position who can play together with the others. The biggest challenge is to work with people who can find harmony. A single mediocre musician can ruin the work of the entire orchestra.

Choose an Actor, Choose an Actress...and now choose a story you would like to direct or play with both of them:

Hugh Laurie is the man, and Suzanne Lindon is the French actress. A film with three characters. A true story. At the beginning of the 18th century, he built the world's first two-person submarine in Ireland to set off for the island of Saint Helena to rescue Napoleon. A young girl who jumped into the water off the French coast to commit suicide joins him. The film tells the adventurous story of the two of them.

Who’s the first Aritst that let you understand you wanted to be an director\screenplayer?

Italian neo-realist filmmakers, French surrealists, and Henrik Ibsen. There isn't one artist; I learned from many of them and pieced together my own individuality.

What really excites you artistically or emotionally?

Human relationships that involve drama and comedy. This topic is inexhaustible. And I love extreme stories.

Marlon Brando said “Never confuse the size of your Paycheck with the

size of your talent”. Do you agree?

Absolutely. I usually got paid more for simply using my craft. When I create using my full talent, it usually means less income, which is why I am an independent filmmaker.

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


Never.

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


Not anymore. Here in Hungary, there are many female film directors, and I see that their numbers are growing worldwide as well. To me, this is natural, and I don't even understand the question.

Do you think that Fame and money could easily change your own Vision as

a Filmmaker\actor\screenplaye?

I work on instinct. I write my screenplays by listening to my instincts. Then I direct them. That's why I'm often the most surprised when they're successful. And since instinct cannot be influenced, neither success nor failure can harm it.

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


Gina Lollobrigida. Later, I wrote a play about it, which has been performed in many places. It is called "Gina and Fidel." Lollobrigoda and Fidel Castro. One of my dream to make a film from this story.

Make a wish about your career...

I wish that everything would stay as it is. You can't lie. Not even to yourself. And the staff you work with will sense the lie, the audience will sense it, and they will turn away from you. Because it is the audience that values honesty the most.

The Film you have loved the most?


Dinos Risi. "White phones".

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


Those who want to create without professional knowledge. Those who don't feel the great responsibility they have towards the entire film crew. In other words, dilettantes. But if possible, I avoid them.

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

After high school, I worked in an ambulance car and trained as a paramedic. I would gladly do that again anytime.

How important is to be rewarded as an Artist?

It is very important because my work is not a one-man show; I manage an entire team. So the recognition is their recognition.

Do you have regrets?


Even if there were, I don't remember them. I try to erase things like that from my mind.

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

A great Hungarian writer – Gyula Hernádi -once wrote: "My happiness is happiness that stands guard over the happiness of others."

 I am already very happy that my latest film, THE RIDDLE PACT, was best Film of the Month at the New York Movie Awards.

Jeff Ragovin is the director and executive producer of Bounty Uncharted, a cinematic documentary series exploring the untold stories, challenges, and transformative journeys behind extraordinary people and groundbreaking ideas. Guided by Jeff’s curiosity and storytelling vision, the series ventures into uncharted territories of creativity, innovation, and resilience, capturing the human spark that drives meaningful achievement. Jeff brings decades of experience as a tech entrepreneur, founder, and industry builder to his work behind the camera. He is best known for co-founding Buddy Media, the world’s leading enterprise social marketing platform, acquired by Salesforce and for serving as CEO of Semasio through its acquisition by Samba TV.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?

Actually, I didn’t wake up one day and decide to become a filmmaker. Storytelling has always been central to how I build companies. It is about recognizing patterns, understanding people, and communicating a vision clearly enough that others want to follow it.

After decades in tech, I realized the stories that truly held my attention were no longer about products, valuations, or exits. They were about the people behind them. The risk, the uncertainty, the instincts, and the environments that shape who someone becomes. Those human forces felt far more compelling than anything found in a pitch deck. Bounty Uncharted was the moment I chose to give that instinct a cinematic form. It was a deliberate step to translate the same curiosity and pattern recognition I had relied on in business into film. Filmmaking did not replace my past work. It became another medium for the same pursuit: understanding human drive and sharing stories that resonate on a deeper level.

How did your family react?

They weren’t surprised, just curious about the scale of the ambition. My career has always been about building things from scratch and stepping into the unknown. This just happens to use a camera instead of code.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

I’m inspired by builders more than traditional muses, people who create worlds and take responsibility for their ideas. The ocean itself is a constant muse for me. It teaches humility, patience, and respect for forces far larger than yourself. When it comes to ocean storytelling, Sir David Attenborough has been a profound inspiration. Blue Planet, Blue Planet II, and A Life on Our Planet reshaped how people understand marine life, and that ability to translate wonder into awareness is something I deeply admire and strive toward in my own work. On a more personal level, my dear friend Andrea Mitchell has inspired me by showing me that one person can take on anything they commit to, even when it’s completely new territory. That belief in possibility has stayed with me.

IWho's your biggest fan?

Without question, my mother. She’s always believed in me, even before there was anything concrete to point to.

What brings you inspiration the most?

What brings me inspiration the most are moments where ambition collides with adversity. I’ve spent much of my life around people who push boundaries, founders, creators, and risk-takers, and I’m especially drawn to their unguarded moments. The spaces where success isn’t polished yet, where doubt, fear, and resilience coexist. That’s where real character is revealed.

I lost my twin brother when I was 17 years old, and that experience fundamentally changed the way I see people and stories. It taught me that strength often isn’t loud or visible, and that growth rarely looks the way we expect it to. When I witness others facing hardship and finding a way forward, I’m deeply inspired by that process of post-traumatic growth, the quiet evolution that happens after loss. That transformation, the shift from survival to meaning, is what I’m always searching for, both in life and in cinema.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

I’m more interested in working with people who carry real stories than in working with actors in the traditional sense. People whose lives, experiences, and contradictions are already present in who they are. That authenticity, the weight of lived experience is what excites me most and what I try to build my films around.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

I’ll be honest, I don’t have much time to read books these days. Most of my relationship with stories comes through images rather than pages. When a film works for me, it’s because it fully embraces cinema as its own language, not because it competes with a book.

What's the movie that taught you the most?

The Perfect Storm taught me how small humans are in the face of the ocean. It doesn’t romanticize the sea, it shows its power, unpredictability, and indifference. What stayed with me was the reality that experience, courage, and preparation don’t always guarantee control. Sometimes adversity is about acceptance as much as resistance, and that truth feels especially honest when you work on the water.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Quitting has never been part of my vocabulary, evolving is. Creative work, like entrepreneurship, has moments of doubt. But those moments usually signal that you’re pushing into meaningful territory.

On set what excites you the most?

Being on the water. The set isn’t static, it’s alive and constantly shifting. On a boat, nothing is fixed. The light changes by the minute, the weather rewrites your plan, and the sea decides the rhythm of the day. You’re forced to stay present, to respond rather than impose. That unpredictability is what excites me most. It strips away control and ego and replaces them with attention and humility. At a certain point, you stop trying to force the story and start listening to what the ocean gives you. Those moments, when nature becomes a collaborator rather than a backdrop, are where the most honest images and emotions emerge.

And what scares you the most ?

The weather!  How quickly it can shift and undo months of preparation in a matter of hours. When you’re working on the water, every plan is provisional. A single forecast, a change in wind, or a rising swell can force you to cancel an entire trip, impacting crews, vessels, schedules, and momentum that took enormous effort to build. That fragility is intimidating because so much is out of your control, no matter how prepared you are. But it’s also clarifying. It reminds you how small you are in relation to nature, and how real the stakes are when you choose to work in environments that don’t bend to your timeline or ambition. That fear keeps you honest, disciplined, and respectful, and it reinforces why presence and decision-making matter so much when everything can change at once.

What's your next project?

What’s next for me is expanding Bounty Uncharted beyond its first chapter. The goal is to take the series to different locations around the world, new waters, new cultures, and new stories, each with its own rhythm and challenges. The Hamptons served as the first pilot, a controlled starting point to define the visual language, tone, and approach of the project. Now the ambition is global. Each destination will shape the narrative rather than fit into a fixed formula. The environment, the people, and the conditions will all play an active role in how the story unfolds. By moving across geographies, Bounty Uncharted becomes less about a single place and more about exploring how creativity, resilience, and ambition manifest differently around the world.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

None. I admire a lot of artists, but I wouldn’t want to take someone else’s path. What matters to me is earning it, making the mistakes, taking the risks, and building something that’s truly mine. Influence is inevitable, but the journey has to be personal.

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

Curiosity first. The ability to observe people, places, and moments without trying to control them. Then patience, because stories reveal themselves over time. And finally resilience, because doubt, failure, and uncertainty are part of the process, especially when you work in real conditions and not controlled sets.

For you Cinema is....

Cinema is a way of paying attention. It’s about being present long enough for something true to emerge, whether that’s a person, a place, or a moment you couldn’t have planned. For me, cinema lives in the space between control and surrender.

Doyou think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Yes. Black and white removes the comfort of realism and pushes you toward emotion and structure. You focus on contrast, texture, faces, and movement. It’s a conscious choice that can make an image more direct and more honest.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

To be honest, no. Of course, the idea of being seen of the work resonating beyond a small circle would be meaningful. But it’s never been about the award itself. It’s more about the possibility that something very personal could connect on a larger scale.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

One day, I’d love that. If it happens, it will be because the work connected honestly with people, not because it was chasing an award.

Jayden Hamilton was born on November 30, 2011, in Ocean Springs, MS, and is best known for her role in Paramount's hit TV series, 1883 (2021). Jayden's movie roles include Hands that Shed Innocent Blood (2025), Under the Family Tree (2025), Landman (2024), Teachers Watching (2021), Paradise Highway (2021), and Home Team (2021), and she appeared on the TV show The Premise (2021). Jayden isn't your typical kid. She's a Mississippi girl on a mission. At 9 years old, Jayden knew precisely what she wanted to do and was willing to put in the work to make it happen. Her mom and dad, Derryn and Josh Hamilton, are behind her every step of the way - in fact, when they brought her to the set of 1883, they were invited to be extras! Jayden was honored to be on set with legendary talents, including Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Sam Elliot, Isabel May, Demi Moore, and Jon Hamm, to name a few. She is represented by BMG Talent and Modeling Atlanta.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I prefer drama because there are many ways you can take a scene and create something beautiful out of it.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

I think that art imitates life because art can show the beauty of life, but also the struggles life may give you. 

Which is the best Moment on set?

Besides going to crafty? When the camera rolls, it feels like you are transported to a different world. 

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

People have told me I'm not good enough, and I use that as motivation to be better and do greater things.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

I stay focused by putting my effort and thought into every audition/ thing that I do.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

I have over stress and wanting to do my best for the job.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

I think that talent is something everyone has, and it’s a blessing to have it; it can benefit you in many ways.

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

As an actor I want to improve my ability to add more of myself into my characters.

What's the worst critic you have received?

I wouldn’t say I have received a bad critic, all the criticism I have received has helped me improve in acting.

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

If I weren’t an actor, I would like to work at Disney and follow in my sister's footsteps.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

If cinema were a color, it would be a mix of different colors. It would be a yellow color for comedy/ nostalgia, a dark blue for drama and mystery, and a pink for romance and love.

A day without a movie is...

A day without a movie is a day that is boring and slow.

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?

If someone asked me to act in a movie I despised, I don’t think I would take the job, no matter how much money it would make me.

What's your greatest ambition?

I would say it is to walk into a theater and see me on the screen in an international film. 

What's your biggest fear?

My biggest fear is not knowing what is going to happen when I’m at a big event.

Does music helps you to play/direct, write?

Music helps and inspires me whenever I do something.

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

My message would be Don’t let the words that people say to you stop you from being great. 

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

I just want to thank everyone for this. This truly means the world to me. I want to thank my family and friends for encouraging me to pursue my dream and supporting me every step of the way. I truly can not be more blessed. I genuinely thank you. I cannot be more thankful!

Award-winning short film director Dustin Johnson has been directing for over a decade. He is most known for his Marvel Scene Recreations on YouTube. During the Pandemic, he directed professional Cosplayers and VFX Artists all over the world, recreating the iconic Portals sequence from Avengers: Endgame. It led to showing the Recreations to Individuals associated with Marvel Studios and received support from actors who have previously starred in Marvel Productions. His Recreation Universe YouTube channel has reached over 6 million views collectively, and he and his team inspired filmmakers across the globe with their Marvel Recreations Behind the Scenes Series. His Latest Short Film, Catalyst, an inventive Murder Mystery Whodunnit where Dustin performs all 6 characters in the style of a Black and White Silent Film, is currently receiving recognition at Film Festivals across the globe.

 When did you realise you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

I was six years old watching Star Wars Episode 2: Attack of the Clones for the first time, and the sequences and cinematic storytelling blew my mind. It opened my imagination up to so many possibilities and inspired me to tell my own stories. I knew right then, I wanted to be a Filmmaker.
It was confirmed again shortly after, when the Bonus Disc of 3 hours of Special Features showed George Lucas creating the Film from the beginning process to the final result. 

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?



I don't. Most of my early Cinematic experiences came from renting DVDs from the library and buying VCRS from thrift stores. My first Theater experience, whatever it may have been, continues to remain a mystery to me. 

If you should change country where would you like to work?



Nowhere. I like America and the United States. Though it would be cool to visit New Zealand and see the filming locations of Middle-earth, I would not want to be a permanent resident there.

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

The First Avengers Film and the first Knives Out. Because they led me to my next Filmmaking projects and greatly impacted my life.
Seeing the Avengers in Theaters in 2012 made me want to recreate the Battle for New York, which I got a chance to do with actors in late 2019, early 2020, for the 11-minute opening sequence for the Marvel Recreation Universe movie. Which recreated one scene from every single Marvel Movie (Avengers 2012 - Spider-Man Far from Home telling one singular story across Marvel's Infinity Saga), and led to me spending 5 years of my life Recreating Scenes from Marvel Movies.
Knives Out showed me what was  possible with a Murder Mystery movie and inspired me to create my own Murder Mystery Short Film, which ultimately, over the years, became my latest Short Film, Catalyst, which is currently at Film Festivals this year. Both of those films led to incredible opportunities and experiences. Like this interview, and I don't want to imagine what my life would look like without the sparks of creativity they passed on to me.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I never went to Film or Acting School. I took all the finances people would generally put towards a College fund and made the Marvel Recreation Universe movie and MRU Behind the Scenes Documentary instead. I believe 90% of everything you need to make films is learned by the process of making Films and experience. To quote Indiana Jones: Spend your time in the field. If you want to be great at something, you have got to get out of the library.

Have you ever hated your ambition?



 Not really. Most of the time, I find myself having to hold back. I am interested in telling stories on a grand scale, and I wind back a bit to telling the best Story I can right now.I save those more expansive stories for later down the road...

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



Films unite people around the world with a shared passion for something and help sustain wonderful communities. Sometimes that passion and love can turn into making fun of films that don't reach expectations, and it can become quite cruel. I think, at the end of the day, the best thing for film fans to remember is that real people make films. Sometimes we don't get it right, and we are all human and connected in this world together.

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



I see Theater lights, chairs, a gigantic screen, transporting people to an amazing shared Cinematic experience reminiscent of a Story by the CampFire on a Cold Winter night.

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



A I have not met them in person, but George Lucas and Dave Filoni. I have learned so much from their Interviews and behind-the-scenes of their Productions. Not just about making Films, but also philosophies about life and the values of being a good, kind, and caring person.

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



One of my biggest dreams is to direct a Marvel Film for Marvel Studios. And to bring in Jacob Kaufman (a talented upcoming actor I worked with on MRU) as a character in the Film. That way, we both would have transcended from recreating Scenes from Marvel movies to actually creating Marvel Movies.  We would both look around the room and respond with wow, we made it. Can you believe it? This is insane.
My worst nightmare would be getting a chance to work with my heroes and messing it up.

How important is it to have a good Cinematographic Culture?



I think you should have a good understanding of the role Cinema plays in our lives and why it is necessary for society. But also, make films with your heart and how you feel, and not so much on metrics and the data of what is popular at the moment.
You can't make a movie with a spreadsheet of popular trends and demographic reasons why it will succeed. Heart and Soul tells worthwhile stories that people come back to relive again and again.

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



I want to keep telling bigger and more larger Scale Stories. To craft films involving hundreds of people instead of 50 or 60. And to make a Film that is feature-length in the future.

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? 

I don't have a favorite Black and White movie, actually. I use Black and White in my storytelling a lot because it forces the audience to pay attention more and focus solely on the story being told and the performances. Also, it makes lighting and color balance easier for smaller independent Productions.
My favorite thing created in Black and White is The Three Stooges, and I don't think that needs to be remade. It is perfect the way it is.

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

 It's a variety of people and things. The number one thing that helps you keep going in this business, as discouraging as it can be, is your environment. I surround my office with Movie Posters and inspiring images from films that I love. Everything down to what clothes I wear each day and the home screen image on my phone is designed to help keep me stimulated, motivated, in the Cinematic Storytelling world, and moving forward.
It's not one person or a quote I really like, being a Film Director is a Lifestyle. I live, breathe, and eat movies. That way, if something discourages me, I can't turn back now because my entire life is cinema.

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

Not entirely. I look at Filmmaking as related to baking a cake: The ingredients are the Script, baking it is when you film, and the Frosting is the Editing. All good cakes have great ingredients, but even if the ingredients are not up to standard, with some substitutes, it can still be saved with some incredible frosting/ Editing or baking/filming.
You need all 3 to come together, in order to make a great movie/ bake an amazing cake but even if one of those elements does not work you can usually salvage it with the other 2 steps, if 2 of those steps fail then you are in desperation, and if all 3 fail then your cake is burnt mess nobody wants to eat and it leaves a bad taste in the audiences mouths. An incredible Script does not guarantee a great movie, but it certainly helps its chances of becoming one.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future? 

A  My older brother and I created a Grand Scale TV-Show 10 years ago with the characters created, the entire story planned out, and rough drafts for most of the first Season. That Story sticks with me and has for over a decade. Everything I do in filmmaking gets me one step closer to making that Show. No matter what, somehow, I am going to get it made. It's always on my mind and keeps me going.

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

A Storytelling is an emotional medium. We experience everything the characters go through to an extent. Pixar's Inside Out showed this brilliantly when it revealed the important aspect sadness plays in our lives and how it is a necessary part of the human experience. You can't live life without experiencing sadness, and you can't creatively tell stories without incorporating sadness at some point down the line.

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

I hope my life shows others what is possible and helps inspire future Filmmakers, giving them the spark they need to start their careers and reach for the sky. To dare to dream. I hope the films I make impact people on a great level and change their lives.

I grew up in New York, where resilience and honesty became part of who I am. Inspired early by Rip Torn’s raw authenticity, I learned to value truth over appearance. After serving as a U.S. Navy Corpsman, I faced homelessness and had to rebuild my life from the ground up. Those experiences taught me that I can’t control every situation — only my approach to tackling them. Strength, I’ve learned, comes from survival, empathy, and the will to keep moving forward.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplay?

I decided I wanted to be an actor after watching Will Smith punch an alien in the head in the movie Independence Day. I was walking in about one foot of snow pretending the towel I had was the parachute and the alien and I was Will Smith. I kicked it and kept dragging. Complaining about the bad obvious things in the day. Then Bam, out of nowhere. A teacher asking what Cha doing Steven. Lol Explaining that was great.

How did your family react?

They hate every idea I have, so it’s consistent.  

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

Yes, I do. Coincidently when I was in middle school, I watched The Matrix Movies daily as one with ADHD does. I had four posters, Angelina Jolie, Will Smith, Clayton Watson and Heath Ledger. Being able to work with and be mentored by Clayton is a dream come true. One day, I’d like to work with Angelina. How many people get to live out their dreams? 

Who's your biggest fan?

My family, Wife, daughter, step son and mother.  

What brings you inspiration the most?

What brings me inspiration is being able to make a change in people’s lives. I’ve seen the worst in people and the best. If I can make one person laugh from this movie, I’ve done my job.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

M Knight.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

Yes, Holes! With Shia Lebeuf

What's the movie that taught you the most?

Interstellar. I learned from it patience, and sometimes things we don’t like or want are more important for those we care about.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Man, there’s not a day that goes by that I think, why am I doing this. 10 years and nothing to show for. But I decided I don’t have a hat rack to hang my hat on yet. Maybe one day when I can afford a hat rack I might retire.

On set what excites you the most?

I enjoy relating to and helping people at a level they are comfortable with so I can hype them up and show them they can do it and give them more hope than they came with.

And what scares you the most?

Not much scare me these days. I’m all in. Family and career. Without those I have nothing.  

What's your next project?

My next project is the hardest question in this line up. I have several of my own. One a friend of mine gave me a few years back, but if my own id have to say An American Folklore. It really dives into the mind and gives an understanding of mental health that just isn’t seen in Indy films.  

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

Clint Eastwood. But, it's not out of the realm to earn my into a lifetime career.. 

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of.... 

Warrior. A Keyboard Warrior but still a Warrior. 

For you Cinema is....

Life! Look at my left arm. I’ve got my gang initiation (a giant film real that turns into a snake) tattoo and the big guys in the game just don’t know I’m in it yet.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Black and white movies have the most powerful impact. Today, the kids going through school learn how to do and be filmmakers and watch them, but don’t really put themselves in the shoes of a black and white film character. Those that can are going to be great in this industry. We live in a precious time where Black and white is overlooked by most fans. It’s nice to have knowledge and know this concept came from this black and white film or that from this.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

It's funny, I’ve watched the Oscars. I looked up to Will Smith, watching Will punch an alien in Independence Day was awesome and made me want to act and stand in front of a crowd of people to give some speech of how I did it.  After watching Will Smith slap Chris Rock, witnessing the cowardice of every Icon in that room taught me that awards are nice, but overall, how we live and the legacy we leave behind matters more. Should something that matters to me land me an award, then great, it means the masses agreed with me.  However, awards are not my personal goal. My personal goal is to be the best version of myself possible. This was a goal I had in mind when I wrote Walking Red Flag. The bare bones of my film questions a person’s ability to deal with internal conflict and rage. I felt a connection to Will Smith and his outburst of rage put on public display for all to see. His mask slipped and he will never be seen the same regardless of the personal work he does to better himself. The weight of this is what forces us all to hide behind our own personal masks. One day, should I be lucky enough to stand on stage with Will Smith, shaking his hand, I will know Will has dealt with his traumas which would be more of an award than any Oscar could favor from me. On the other hand, when I look at Heath Ledgers’ amazing performance in Batman Dark Knight, which earned him an Oscar.  This is where Heath Ledger’s character Joker, a villain. However, he made himself the hero to many men and woman out there with mental health problems and urges to lash out in the real world to act as the joker in their own lives and made it in such a way they dreamed instead of acted. Winning an award would be meaningful if I’m following in the footsteps of my hero Heath Ledger, Yes! If it means accomplishing what he did. An Oscar is the highest honor in the film community such as the personal struggles that come with it.  

Do you think you're gonna win it?

It depends entirely on how good a taste in Dark comedy these judges have. Rape is a tough subject. Unfortunately, it exists and the only way I can point It out is by making fun of it. It’s not funny in any way shape or form. But hey, I can only stand up to one issue at a time. By showing the world how absurd it is, I hope the movie touches people that have dealt with the issue. 

Tommy Anderson is a best-selling author, award-winning screenwriter, artist, actor, producer, and co-host of the podcast Real Talk with Tom & Sherry. His diverse body of work spans books, film, television, and visual art, where his creativity is matched only by his commitment to authentic storytelling. He has written and produced acclaimed projects including Life After Oblivion, PTSD: A Soldier’s Revenge, and The Broken Road, along with the pilot The Tale of Richard Pic. His screenplay Where the Sweetgrass Grows has been greenlit for production, further cementing his place as a powerful voice in contemporary filmmaking. As an actor and producer, Tommy has contributed to multiple independent film and television projects, while his artistry extends into painting and photography through his online galleries. He earned an Emmy Award as part of the PBS documentary Take Me Home Huey, honoring Vietnam veterans, and has also worked as a journalist and photojournalist.

What’s the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor, director, or screenwriter?

For me, it’s authenticity. Before I ever stepped into filmmaking, I served in the Army, the Air Force, and later as a firefighter and medic. Those experiences taught me that people respond to honesty above everything else. You learn to listen, to understand, and to show up fully—traits that

translate directly into storytelling. As a screenwriter, authenticity helps me write characters who feel real. As an actor, it keeps me grounded and truthful.

As a director or producer, it lets me lead with respect and clarity. Everything meaningful I’ve created—whether it’s honoring veterans or exploring

resilience—comes from that place. Technique matters, but authenticity is what connects us. It’s what turns a story into something people feel.

How old were you when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenwriter?

I was 50. After being injured and becoming disabled on the fire department, my whole life had to be refocused. One of my rehab counselors suggested I try writing as part of my recovery, and that simple suggestion opened a door I never expected. Writing became therapy, then passion, then purpose.

From there, the acting, directing, and producing all grew naturally. I found a second career—really, a second life—in storytelling. It proved that reinvention isn’t just possible at any age… sometimes it’s where you do your best work.

For me, a film is…

For me, a film is a bridge—a way to connect people through truth, emotion, and experience.Coming from the military and the fire service, I’ve seen the best and worst of life up close. Film gives me a way to take all of that—every lesson, every scar, every moment of hope—and turn it into something that can reach someone else. It’s storytelling with purpose.A film is also a form of service. It can honor veterans, inspire resilience, spark

conversations, or simply remind people they’re not alone. Whether I’m writing, acting, or producing, I’m always trying to build that bridge from my world to the audience. At its heart, a film is a chance to say something real—and hope it lands where someone needs it most.

What do you feel when you're acting, directing, or writing?

When I’m acting, directing, or writing, I feel alive in a way I didn’t expect to feel again after leaving the fire service.

There’s a sense of purpose—like all the pieces of my life, even the difficult ones, are finally being used for something meaningful.

When I’m writing, I feel grounded. It’s where I sort out emotions, memories, and

experiences and turn them into something that can speak to others.

When I’m acting, I feel connected. Stepping into another person’s life reminds me of the empathy and understanding I learned as a firefighter and medic.

When I’m directing or producing, I feel responsible—in the best way. I’m guiding a team, helping people shine, and shaping a story that could touch someone’s life. More than anything, I feel grateful. After everything I’ve been through, I get to create, collaborate, and tell stories that matter. And that’s a gift I don’t take lightly.

You can go to the movies with an actor/director/screenwriter you love. What kind of movie do you choose, and who are you watching it with?

If I could go to the movies with anyone, I’d choose someone who loves storytelling as much as I do—someone like Ron Howard or Tom Hanks. Both of them understand character, heart, and history in a way that really resonates with me. And the movie? I’d pick something with a great story I can get lost in. I don’t need a lecture or a lesson when I go to the theater—I want to escape into another world. Give me a

powerful drama, a film based on real historical events, or good science fiction that sparks the imagination. Those are the stories that pull me in and let me forget everything else for a couple of hours.

To me, the magic of movies is that feeling of immersion, and sharing that with someone who helped shape the kind of films I love would be incredible.

Can you live just off your passion?

Definitely. I’ve always believed that wealth isn’t measured only in financial gain. For me, true wealth comes from purpose—waking up every day doing something that feeds your spirit, challenges your creativity, and connects you to others. I may not have started in this industry until later in life, but passion gave me a second career and a second chance. 

When you’re driven by something you love, it doesn’t matter

how unconventional the path is—you’re already living rich.

What’s more important—talent or luck?

It’s both. Luck is what puts you in the position—but talent is what keeps you there. Luck opens the door, but you still have to walk through it prepared, focused, and ready to deliver. Whenever opportunity shows up, your talent is what proves you belong in that moment.

You must go to a desert island, but you can only bring one movie. What is it?

I’d bring Cast Away.

Not only is it a fantastic film, but it’s a story built on resilience and hope—two things you absolutely need if you’re stranded anywhere, physically or emotionally. It reminds you that even in isolation, the human spirit can adapt, survive, and find purpose. And on a desert

island, that’s the kind of message you’d want to hold onto.

Have you ever accepted a part, a movie to direct, or a script to write even if you didn’t like the project?

Yes. I’m a professional, and sometimes in this industry you take on projects that aren’t exactly your personal cup of tea. If I’m writing a script I don’t fully connect with, I do everything I can to elevate it—make the dialogue stronger, deepen the characters, or give the story more heart.

And as an actor or producer, there are times you take roles or assignments to show your depth and range. Every project, even the ones you don’t love at first, teaches you something—about the craft, about collaboration, and about yourself. In the entertainment world, growth often comes from stepping into unfamiliar territory. I’ve learned to embrace that.

What’s the best compliment you’ve received about your job?

Honestly, my peer awards. There’s nothing more meaningful than having people within the industry—people who understand the grind, the heart, and the craft—recognize your work. When your peers say, "You did something special here,” that’s the highest compliment you can get. It tells methat what I’m creating isn’t just being seen… it’s being respected.

Are you satisfied with your career?

Absolutely. I’m grateful for every chapter of it. My path wasn’t traditional—I didn’t enter this industry until later in life, after a career in the military and the fire service. But that’s what makes it meaningful. I got a second chance, and I’ve been able to turn recovery and reinvention into creativity and purpose.

I’m proud of the books I’ve written, the films I’ve worked on, the awards I’ve earned, and the people I’ve collaborated with. But more than anything, I’m satisfied because I’m doing work that feels authentic. I’m telling stories that matter to me, honoring veterans, lifting others up, and exploring new corners of the creative world. And the best part is—I’m not done yet. I feel like there’s still so much ahead of me.

Do you have a good luck charm?

Yes. I carry two challenge coins with me—one from the fire department and one from the military. They remind me where I came from, the people I’ve served with, and the values that shaped me. They’re not just good-luck charms; they’re grounding. Whenever I’m on a

set, writing, or stepping into something new, having them with me feels like bringing my whole journey along for the ride.

Which was the worst moment on set?

It happened during a very formal shoot where I was in a tuxedo. Wardrobe forgot the suspenders, and my pants kept sliding down every time I moved. Not exactly the dramatic moment the scene called for. Thankfully, one of the actresses saved the day—she had a single safety pin in her bag. We ended up pinning the back of my pants to my shirt just to

keep everything in place. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was definitely memorable—and it reminded me that sometimes the real heroes on set are the ones carrying safety pins.

How do you feel when a job you’ve been part of is ending?

There’s no better feeling than hearing the director say, “Cut. That’s a wrap. We’ve made a movie, folks.” In that moment, everything hits you at once—the long days, the creative energy, the teamwork, the problem-solving, the laughs, the stress, the breakthroughs. It’s a rush of

pride and gratitude. For me, it’s a mix of satisfaction and humility. You realize you’ve been part of something bigger than yourself, something everyone worked together to create from nothing but an

idea on paper. And even though there’s always a little sadness when a project ends, there’s also an incredible sense of accomplishment.

It’s one of the best feelings in this business.

Have you ever lied to get a part or a job?

No. Lies always catch up with you. In this industry, people want to see the real you, not a façade. Authenticity lasts a lot longer than pretending to be something you’re not, and I’ve found that being honest—about who I am and what I can do—has opened more doors than

any lie ever could.

If you were to win an Oscar, your first thought would go to…

To God, for giving me the opportunities and the strength to keep going.

To the military, for teaching me discipline, resilience, and how to face fear head-on. To my parents, who shaped my character and supported me long before I knew where life would take me. And to my 11th-grade English teacher, Mrs. Loftus, who told me I could be a writer

someday. She planted a seed I didn’t fully understand until much later, and it changed my life. Those are the people and moments that built the foundation of everything I do.

Harry Keane, a U.S. Army Veteran has written, produced and directed numerous commercials, theatrical and live performances, films, music and many other productions and brings over 30 years of experience. Harry attributes his success to the many people with whom he has had the opportunity to work; Producers/Directors/Actors such as Matthew Perry, Adam Roarke, Kim Dawson, and others. His latest film “Cyber-Psycho Chronicles” has already achieved 70+ festival accolades as Best Tv Series, Best Thriller and Best Director to name a few and has all the elements to be a suspense thriller blockbuster smash.

The biggest challenge of being a director\ screenwriter is…

 As both a writer and director, I’ve come to understand that storytelling for film is as much an art of perseverance as it is of creativity. The journey from script to screen is filled with challenges that test not only skill but also patience and resilience.

Choose an Actor & Choose an Actress...and now choose a story you would like to direct or play with both of them…  

As both a writer and director, I’m continually inspired by the dynamic relationship between story and performance. Each project I create begins with a simple question: Who can bring these characters to life with honesty, depth, and emotional truth? Over the years, I’ve written and developed a variety of stories—some intimate and character-driven, others bold and cinematic. Each one offers a unique opportunity to explore human complexity through the lens of talented actors and actresses.

Who’s the first Artist that let you understand you wanted to be an Actor\ director\ screenwriter? 

Actor Adam Roarke, Actor Dennis Quad and Actor Matthew Perry are the ones who I took to heart back when I first started my journey,

What really excites you artistically or emotionally? 

What excites me most—both artistically and emotionally—is the power of storytelling to reveal truth through human connection. I’m drawn to the quiet, often unspoken moments that define who we are: the tension between what’s said and what’s felt, the beauty that can exist even within pain, and the resilience that emerges from struggle.

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

Yes, I completely agree with Marlon Brando’s words: “Never confuse the size of your paycheck with the size of your talent.” Talent and artistry are not measured by financial success, but by authenticity, dedication, and the courage to tell meaningful stories.

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

Yes, I have been discouraged by others about my life and career choices — but those moments have only strengthened my determination to follow my own path. The creative journey is not always easy to explain or justify, especially in an industry where success is uncertain and deeply personal. People often see the challenges but not the passion that drives the work. As a writer and director, I’ve learned that doubt — whether from others or from within — can be a powerful motivator. Every “you can’t” or “you shouldn’t” has pushed me to prove that I can and that I will. Creativity doesn’t follow a straight line; it thrives on perseverance, faith, and the courage to keep going even when support feels distant.

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

 Yes, I do believe it can be harder for a woman to be a filmmaker — but that challenge has only fueled my passion to create change. As a director and producer, I’ve made it a personal and professional mission to empower women, both in front of and behind the camera. Through my work and my company, I strive to build spaces where women’s voices are heard, respected, and celebrated. The industry has made progress, but there are still barriers — from unequal opportunities to limited representation in key creative roles. I’ve seen firsthand how women often have to prove themselves twice over to be taken seriously. Yet, I also see the strength, creativity, and resilience that women bring to every aspect of filmmaking. That is what inspires me to keep pushing forward. 

Do you think that Fame and money could easily change your own Vision as a Filmmaker\actor\screenwriter? 

Yes, I believe fame and money can easily influence or change a person’s vision — and that’s exactly why I stay grounded in my purpose and values as an artist. I’ve seen how success can become a distraction, shifting focus away from storytelling and toward expectation. For me, it’s important to remain humble and remember why I started creating in the first place — to tell honest stories that connect with people. As a filmmaker, actor, and screenwriter, my goal has never been about chasing fame; it’s been about authenticity. God comes first, then the Art. Recognition and financial success may come along the way, but they should never define the work or the message behind it. I remind myself that every project is a chance to learn, to collaborate, and to grow — not to compete. Staying true to that keeps me focused on the creative journey, not the noise around it.

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

Henry Winkler as Fonzie in Happy Days.

Make a wish about your career... 

My wish for my career begins with putting God first in everything I do. Before anything else — before fame, success, or recognition — my purpose is to glorify the Lord through my work and the way I live my life. Every story I tell, every project I create, and every opportunity I receive is a reflection of His grace and guidance. I pray that my path in the film industry continues to align with His plan for me. I want to be a successful producer and director — not just in terms of career accomplishments, but in a way that honors God and inspires others. My goal is to make a living doing what I love, creating meaningful films that touch hearts, uplift spirits, and speak truth.

Talking about cinema\Showbusiness, how hard is to remain completely honest to yourself as an producer /director/writer?

 In the world of cinema and show business, it’s one of the hardest things to remain completely honest with yourself — but it’s also the most important. This industry can be filled with noise, pressure, and temptation to compromise your values for success, recognition, or acceptance. As a filmmaker, I’ve learned that staying true to who you are requires courage, faith, and constant reflection. For me, it begins with putting God first. My creativity, my opportunities, and my vision all come from Him. When I remind myself of that, it becomes easier to navigate the challenges and distractions that come with this business. I don’t want to just make films — I want to make an impact. I want every project I produce, direct, or write to carry integrity, truth, and heart.

The Film you have loved the most? 

Grease

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

The movie My Cousin Vinny, tho the film was great it did not need the language it had in it to be great. It could have been done without the 4 letter words and still be a great movie. 

Your biggest artistic goal is… 

My biggest artistic goal is to create stories that resonate deeply, inspire change, and leave a lasting impact on audiences. As a filmmaker, writer, and director, I strive to craft work that is authentic, emotionally honest, and visually compelling — stories that not only entertain but also move people to reflect, feel, and connect with the human experience.

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

Entertainment Restaurant

How important is to be rewarded as a producer / director? 

Being recognized or rewarded as a producer or director is certainly meaningful, but it has never been my primary motivation. For me, the most important reward is the work itself — creating stories that move, inspire, and connect with people. Every project I produce, direct, or write is an opportunity to bring something meaningful into the world, and that fulfillment is far more valuable than accolades or titles. Awards and recognition can open doors and validate hard work, but they are external measures. True reward comes from staying faithful God, to your vision, honoring your craft, and seeing the impact your art has on others. When a story resonates, changes perspectives, or touches someone’s heart, that is the ultimate affirmation of why I do this work.

Do you have regrets? 

Yes, I have faced moments of regret — being told “no” again and again, watching opportunities slip away, and even stopping myself from pursuing what I truly felt called to do. There were times I doubted, hesitated, or let fear influence my choices, and looking back, I see how those pauses cost me precious opportunities to grow and create. But I have learned that there is no stopping me now. Every step I take in my career is guided by God’s hand and my faith in Him. I no longer let rejection or doubt dictate my path, because I know that my purpose and calling are greater than any obstacle. Each “no” I once faced has become fuel to keep going, to trust His plan, and to move forward with courage and conviction. Today, I create, produce, and direct with clarity, passion, and faith. I embrace every opportunity, knowing that when I align my work with God’s purpose, no rejection or setback can deter me. My journey has taught me that regret is not the end — it is a teacher — and faith is what transforms perseverance into achievement.

What’s the message you want to express through your art? 

The message I want to express through my art is deeply rooted in what matters most in my life: God first, then my wife, family, and my work. Everything I create comes from that foundation. My goal as a filmmaker, producer, and storyteller is to craft meaningful projects that carry purpose, resonate with audiences, and reflect values that uplift and inspire. I want my art to be more than entertainment. I want it to tell stories that touch hearts, spark reflection, and leave a lasting impression.

Kris Francoeur is an award-winning screenwriter, author, and ghostwriter who lives on a small family farm in central Vermont. When not writing, she enjoys time with her family, traveling, gardening, and taking care of her dogs, cat, sheep, bees and chickens. Kris is also an avid knitter and spinner, and often her best ideas for scripts and novels come when at the spinning wheel or in the garden.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?

I’ve known since I was a small child that I wanted to be a writer or some sort. As an author, I’ve written and published many books, but when I wrote The Stained-Glass Window, readers kept commenting that it should be made into a movie or television series. That set me on a journey of learning to write for the screen, and I found that writing screenplays is an absolute blast!


How did your family react?


My family is amazing! They have been my biggest cheerleaders in both my writing as an author, and as a screenwriter. When I get notified of a win in a screenwriting competition, they act like I’ve just won an Oscar or Emmy.


Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

Our middle son, Sam, was always my biggest fan – he always believed I would be a published author and helped me keep going when rejections would arrive. When he died in 2013 at the age of 20, I knew I owed it to his belief in me to keep trying. Each and every day, I try to make Sam proud!



Who's your biggest fan?

My husband Paul is definitely my biggest fan. Although he struggles to speak due to having advanced ALS (Motor Neuron Disease, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease), he can brag about my accomplishments without any trouble. He loves to tell people about my writing, and my awards – and he will read my romance writing for me!

What brings you inspiration the most?


I am a people-watcher. I like to watch as people go about their days and make up stories in my head about their backstories. Then, being outside, especially in the gardens or with my animals, sparks my creativity every time.


Which actor or director would you like to work with?


I would love to work with Jennifer Lawrence (who married a local guy), and with Eric Dane (both for his skill as an actor, and his advocacy for ALS), and for producers, Steven Spielberg.


Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?


I liked the first Hunger Games movie more than the book – I hadn’t fully “seen” the descriptions in my mind, so seeing it on the big screen made it come to life for me.


What's the movie that taught you the most?


Rudy – when I was a teacher, we used to watch it once a year with students, to teach the value of hard-work, perseverance, and hope. I love that movie and still watch it at least once a year.


About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?


Absolutely! My first “1 star” review on Amazon for my first novel made me cry. I wanted to throw it all in then, and then I realized that there was some truth in that review, and I worked to improve my writing.


On set what excites you the most?

I’ve never been on a set before, so I don’t know…



And what scares you the most?

I’ve never been on a set, but I suspect the idea of looking like an idiot would be my biggest fear.

What's your next project?

I am writing two new series scripts based upon some of my other novels, as well as about to release a new novel in November of this year. 



You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

Being a female version of either the late Paul Newman or Robert Redford – both were great at their crafts and made the world a better place while living on their own terms.



An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

Creativity, bravery, and hope.



For you Cinema is....

A way to make people think, laugh, love, cry, and hope.


Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

I absolutely do – the stark lack of other colors strips the story down to its most perfect essence.



Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Having just started my screenwriting journey, I hadn’t started dreaming that big, but having won some smaller festivals lately, yes, now I am!



Do you think you're gonna win it?



Not sure if it will be an Oscar, might be an Emmy, but yes, I am going to win one!

Adam Najberg was a journalist for 25 years – 21 of them at Dow Jones Newswires and The Wall Street Journal as a foreign correspondent and editor in Asia, Europe and the U.S. While at the WSJ, he worked as a writer, director and producer on two feature-length documentaries: "The End of Wall Street" and "Inside the Bernie Madoff Scandal."He was executive producer of the short film, "City of Dreams," about the Kowloon Walled City in Hong Kong. He has worked at The Associated Press and has had bylines in more than a dozen publications.

When did you realise you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer? Do you remember your first time at the Movies?

Growing up, I never wanted to be anything but a storyteller. I always marveled at athletes who had such amazing ability to do something extraordinary with their bodies, singers who could make you cry with their unbelievable voices and scientists who could split the atom or explain time travel. It seemed like they had these incredible superpowers. And then I realized, when I first watched ‘All the President’s Men,’ about the Watergate Scandal, that I had one, too. That was the first movie I saw that really resonated with me. I had already started doing journalism in junior high school, and when I saw all the shoe-leather reporting and careful writing Woodward and Bernstein did, exposing secret corruption in the government to billions worldwide, the impact they had - I knew I was built for that.

If you should change country where would you like to work?

I’m American, born in New York, grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts, went to college in Maine and grad school at UC Berkeley. But I’ve spent most of my adult life overseas - in Asia and Europe - as a foreign correspondent. And I have to say that I think it created such an amazing tableau of different perspectives and new stories to tell that I wouldn’t have it any other way. Feet to the fire, ever since I started to study Mandarin Chinese in 1986, I fell in love with China. And when I studied there in 1988 and 1989, covering the student protests in Tiananmen Square, watching history being made - being kind of like Forest Gump - at that young age, I knew much of my life would be centered around what happened in the Middle Kingdom. And I ended up covering things in and around China for over 15 years, including its rise from a country emerging from political turmoil and poverty into a virtual superpower.

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

I hope this doesn’t sound trivial, but apart from ‘All the President’s Men,’ which was quite weighty, I have to have seen ‘The Karate Kid’ - the original movie - close to 100 times since the mid-1980s. It’s such a perfectly told story with so many facets. The character development was there, the film built in room for viewers to breathe and absorb, the rivalry, the conflict between good and evil, a love story, a coming of age tale, the friendship bond between two generations, the bridging of East and West, addressing your fears and standing up to bullying…Man, it was ALL there, bundled so perfectly. I hope I can tell my stories that perfectly one day.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

Not a fan, just as I wasn’t a fan of journalism school, even though I went to the Berkeley J-school back when Moses wore short pants. The pedantic stuff was a total snore, especially since I already knew how to write. But from a technical perspective, J-school taught me how to - if you remember the time before the MP3 - report, record, edit and produce radio stories using a razor blade, grease pencil and quarter-inch tape. And that skill put food on my table for my first two years out of grad school, when nobody in news wanted to hire a young, white Jewish guy for their newsrooms, which were already filled with tons of older ones. I also appreciated the professors opening up their professional networks to me, which gave me a chance to do freelance work for National Public Radio and 60 Minutes. Most importantly, though, I learned how to tell stories visually, for TV. And later in my career, when I moved from print and wires news into TV and feature documentaries, I understood how you tell those types of stories. As I entered the genre, I felt like I had a clue because of what I learned at school.

Have you ever hated your ambition?

When I was young, I cursed myself because I loved what I did, but it was a terrible way to earn a living - telling stories. I come from a lower-middle-class background, so I never had any money growing up. I say without any irony that I continued that my first 10 years or so in journalism. And it’s funny. Now that I’m much older, made money in the corporate world, what do I do but turn around and bankroll a feature-length documentary and spend time and money over five years to tell the story. I knew when I started how terrible the doc market was, that you can’t sell unless you get your money from a Tyler Perry or Oprah or work with a production house that has ties to Netflix or Amazon. I knew that it was stupid doing a film that wasn’t focused on a celebrity or something stupid, like the Fyre Festival, where we were telling the story of the everyman and everywoman. And yet, here we are. It was partly about trying to sell it to pay my crew what they’re really worth, not what I could afford. But more than that, my ambition was to sell ‘Out of Reach’ so that the world could see the story we had told, our way, one that resonates with every working person who has ever felt undervalued and struggles to have a decent quality of life.

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

Only a masochist goes into this business. You know, going in, that you’re unlikely to be the Michael Jordan, the Francis Ford Coppola, the 1%, of all film people. But you don’t care, because you’re so driven to learn, distill, create and share the stories of others with viewers. Everything else - fame, fortune - takes a backseat to wrapping on your production and getting it ready for others to understand what you learned and have shared with them. It is a sickness.

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

“As I started to get deeper into documentaries - ‘Out of Reach’ is my fourth doc - but my first indie production, I was heavily influenced by James Kent, Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert. Kent won an Emmy and a BAFTA for ‘Chopin Saved My Life.’ The light bulb came on in my head when I watched how he pulled together the stories of unconnected, diverse people around the world - all of whom were obsessed with, and affected by, the same piece of music. It was a master class in creating story flow, and we used similar techniques to bind our characters together and keep the story flowing organically. Bognar and Reichert directed ‘American Factory,’ which came out while we were still shooting. Before I saw it, I was having trouble storyboarding ‘Out of Reach,’ but I totally cribbed both their chapter-like structure and the fearless way they moved from one character’s storyline to another and back again without worrying about making things too linear and neat. Because life is not like that, and viewers are not stupid. They can totally follow your storyline if they recognize and connect with the characters.”

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

Having a great idea for a story and not having the time or money to tell it is my greatest nightmare, since I no longer have the might of The Wall Street Journal to bankroll me. My biggest dream is that I hear from audiences of all colors and ethnicities, speaking dozens of languages on five different continents, that the story I’ve told made them feel something, gave them insight they didn’t have before. I do this because I want my work to have impact. I want it to expose something in a raw, understandable, visceral way, and make it connect, whether you are young or old, conservative or liberal, because we are all people, and we all should understand each other better.

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

The ecosystem and economics of documentary filmmaking are broken. As much as I love work from Ken Burns and Tyler Perry and Mark Wahlberg, there’s way too much emphasis on them and others like them. Let me be clear: This isn’t about avarice, it’s about homogeneity.  If you scroll through the major streaming platforms, everything looks the same. There’s a reason for that. The industry - the streamers, the production houses - they want bankable hits. And the formula they’ve landed on is celebrity: a celebrity director or EP, a celebrity subject like Victor Wembanyana or Elon Musk. It’s at a point where ‘indie’ equates with poverty and the inability to make a living as a filmmaker. I know I certainly would starve if I didn’t have other work writing books, doing communications and content gigs. I think there has to be a better way to distribute funding, making it more meritocratic and inclusive to new, different voices. But there also needs to be a way better way to get these films seen and distributed. It’s highly inefficient, and quite frustrating when you hear from a PBS that your five years of work is worth $1,500 to them, because they blew their budget on one big film. Or that a streamer, who hasn’t even watched your work, won’t pay - or won’t even reply to your query - because they’ve never heard of you. It’s hard not to sound whiny about this, but I think there are so many gems in these indie festivals that deserve, but won’t get, a bigger platform and viewing audience because of broken economics.

A big producer give 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?

Definitely 'Citizen Kane,' though in this day and age, ‘Rosebud’ would probably have to be a skateboard or an action drone, instead of a sled.

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

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

I do unscripted documentaries, but I do take Hitchcock's point. You can’t just have an idea, point the camera and slam clips together without first knowing what your higher purpose is, what characters represent, where they’re going and what takeaways you want to leave viewers with. Whenever I get discouraged, I think back to Bill Drummond, a radio professor at the Berkeley J-School. He taught me to embrace my introversion, going out into the world along with a Marantz cassette recorder and microphone, to look and listen and find one person, then another, then another - and then dig out their stories. Once they start talking, magic happens. You can see the possibilities, the direction, the flow. When you’re in that storytelling zone, camera on, character answering your questions, or you’re following them as they live their lives, all the worries and misery melt away. You’re doing what you love, doing what you’re good at, doing something that has meaning.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

I just finished it in the present, with ‘Out of Reach,’ but I want to tackle a story that focuses on the future of work. I want to know how we, as humans around the world, will interact with and work with technology, like AI, for example. I want to bring out the angst of being replaced, with the reality of how things will actually unfold in different corners of the globe. Ultimately, I want to help define what late-21st-century human jobs will be, look like and do and how man and machine will intersect.

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

It’s definitely true that, ‘if it bleeds, it leads,’ but humans like - and thrive on - hope and joy. I think there’s a chemical reaction when you’re sad that gives you greater powers of introspection and perspective, and that’s a good way to kick things off. But if you stay in that lane, your work ends up being far too dark or deep, even to the point of being impenetrable. Lay out the sketch, the outlines and let your viewers process and decide what something means. Give them that credit.

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

I have never found such a humbling profession in my life. Apart from others always being better than you are, you get to be a certain age in many professions, and you kind of have no more runway to learn and develop and grow. I wish - and think - that will never happen to me, or for me, in filmmaking. I learn from watching the work of others. I grow by making mistakes and finding ways around them. I develop by staying current in technology and tools, like drones and VR, to find new ways to think about and tell stories.

I was Born and raised in Brooklyn NY. I discovered my passion for performing as a child, though formal training wasn’t accessible. Life took me into teaching. I even founded my own performing art program for kids and teens. After earning my SAG card, working with an agent and manager, I found my true voice in filmmaking. I began my current project ten years ago during a difficult chapter in my life, and though I had to pause, I always knew I would return to it. As a Puerto Rican Latina, I believe in the power of telling our own stories and uplifting each other’s voices. My work is rooted in resilience, reinvention, and the belief that representation matters because when one of us wins, we all rise.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I truly love both. That’s why my last three projects have leaned toward dramedy, because life itself blends comedy and drama so seamlessly.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

I believe it goes both ways. Art holds up a mirror to life, but at the same time, it inspires and shapes the way we live and see the world.

Which is the best moment on set?

For me, it’s when I watch actors bring words on a page to life. Seeing a performance transcend the script is always magical.

Did anyone ever tell you weren’t good enough?

Yes, an acting coach once told me that. It stuck with me for a while, and I stayed in my head. But eventually, I gave myself permission to continue with my passion. That decision changed everything.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

By surrounding myself with like-minded people,  filmmakers, directors, and actors who share the same drive and passion. Community fuels focus.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your job?

Of course I’ve felt down when I didn’t get a role/Job but in this business, you have to develop a thick skin. If you stay the course, you learn resilience and find strength in persistence.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

It’s a blessing, but one that comes with responsibility. You have to nurture it, protect it, and use it with integrity.

What would you like to improve as an actor/director/screenwriter?

I’d like to improve my patience. As a filmmaker, you want everything to move quickly, but film teaches you that growth is a process.

What’s the worst critic you have received?

That my ideas were “too ambitious.” But to me, ambition is part of being a storyteller.

If you weren’t an actor/director/screenwriter, what would you like to be?

I’d probably be a teacher full-time. I’ve been teaching acting for over 30 years, and I love inspiring others to find their voice.

If Cinema was a color, what would it be?

It would be every color,  because cinema has the power to capture every human emotion, from light to dark and everything in between.

A day without a movie is…

A day without inspiration.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in a movie you despise, but that would make you rich and famous, would you accept?

No. I would never compromise my integrity for art. For me, the story and the message come first.

What’s your greatest ambition?

To keep creating stories that inspire and resonate with people no and to build a legacy of work that empowers others to believe in themselves.

What’s your biggest fear?

Giving up.

Does music help you to play/direct/write?

I actually prefer quiet. Silence gives me clarity.

If you had the chance to make a Silent movie, what’s your 

message to the audience?

That behavior is more powerful than words. Actions reveal truth.

Share your Oscar speech: 

I would thank my higher power, and I would thank myself for never giving up. I want to be an example for anyone who has ever been told they’re not good enough because you are..

Bailey Wall is an award-winning filmmaker with over a decade of experience in the film and television industry. Highly educated in Film Production and a six-time Emmy® Award winner, Bailey is known for his ability to bring powerful stories to life with originality and emotional depth. Driven by a passion for storytelling and a commitment to excellence, he specializes in directing high-quality content from script to screen. His work is grounded in dramatic narrative, where his creative vision and cinematic approach consistently elevate the heart of each story. Bailey is currently receiving accolades for his latest short film, Where Does It Matter, a gripping and visually striking psychological drama that continues to gain recognition across film festivals.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?

I actually discovered my passion for directing in middle school—by accident. I took a video production class just to get an easy A, but I ended up completely hooked. What started as simple film analysis turned into late nights building tiny stop-motion sets and skipping lunch just to keep working. When I finished that project, I realized I’d found a drive I’d never felt before. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to tell stories that made people feel something—the same spark that filmmaking gave me.

How did your family react?

My family has always been incredibly supportive. I remember in high school, we had a trip planned to Disneyland, but it happened to fall on the only week my actors were available to shoot a short film I was working on. I told them I didn’t want to go—I needed to make the film. Instead of being disappointed, my family actually canceled the trip so I could shoot it. That kind of belief in me meant everything. And in the end, it really paid off—because that same film went on to win four Emmy® Awards.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

My wife, Yah’leanah Wall, is both my muse and my role model. There was a time when I’d completely stepped away from filmmaking, but she was the one who pulled me back. Her passion, creativity, and sheer talent behind the camera reignited something in me I thought I’d lost. As my cinematographer—and my partner—she gives me the freedom to direct with complete trust and confidence. Together, we’ve built something that feels unstoppable. With her by my side, I genuinely believe we could create an Academy Award–winning film within the next few years.

Who's your biggest fan?

I’d have to say my biggest fan is my wife. She’s always my biggest supporter—constantly hyping me up to everyone we meet and believing in me even when I doubt myself. She’s the kind of person whose opinion truly matters to me, and when I manage to impress her, that’s when I feel the proudest. It’s like her belief in me reminds me why I do what I do.

What brings you inspiration the most?

My biggest inspirations come from the small moments in everyday life—the grind of a day job, a late-night conversation with my wife, the fleeting emotions we all feel but rarely notice. When a movie inspires me, it’s never about copying it. I want to capture the feeling it gave me—the way it lingered after the credits—and make the audience experience that same spark for themselves.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

I really wish I could work with Daniel Day-Lewis. He just disappears so well into his roles, and with my tendency to make more intense feeling films, it would be a dream to have him bring a character of mine to their maximum potential.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

The Silence of the Lambs if only because it brings the story and themes to life in a way that only a movie could; like how it uses sound design to show why the main character feels like she doesn't belong by simply accentuating the sound of her high heels among the crowds of men she walks amongst

What's the movie that taught you the most?

Whiplash. That film taught me so much about the power of simplicity in storytelling. Everything about it — from the color palette to the pacing — is deliberate and minimal, yet it evokes such intense emotion. It showed me that a story doesn’t need to be complex to be gripping; it’s about how deeply we can connect with a character’s internal struggle. More than anything, it taught me that real character development comes through how someone reacts to the events in their life, not just the events themselves.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

I have quit everything. After Covid I had no team, no money, no equipment, just a job that could just barely get me by. I thought it wasn't in the cards for me until I met my wife; that's when I realized that with or without money, it's still worth trying.

On set what excites you the most?

When I’ve given the actors my notes, the lighting is set, and my cinematographer is locked in—there’s this moment right before we roll where everything clicks. Then, seeing all that hard work come to life in real time on the director’s monitor is absolutely electric. It’s the moment where collaboration turns into creation, and I get to witness everyone’s effort and artistry merge into something tangible. That feeling never gets old.

And what scares you the most ?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced on set was when someone got injured during a shoot. My cinematographer and I were filming a one-shot, one-take short that required a lot of running with heavy equipment. At one point, she fell and hurt her knee, but we still hadn’t gotten the take. Despite the pain, she insisted on pushing through and kept filming until we nailed it. I was worried the entire time, and it really stuck with me. It reminded me that no shot is worth someone’s safety, and since then I’ve made it a priority to plan stunts and movements with even more care.

What's your next project?

My next project is a World War II feature film titled The Red Head, where I’ll be serving as the First Assistant Director alongside Director of Photography Yah’leanah Wall. It’s an exciting opportunity to help bring a large-scale historical narrative to life while collaborating with an incredible team. Following that, I’ll be returning to directing with my short film Work It With Sandy, a psychological comedy-thriller that explores themes of nostalgia, media obsession, and identity through the story of an exercise videotape that comes to life. I’m genuinely looking forward to what’s ahead.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

My answer feels obvious. I'd like Stephen Spielberg's career. He so easily makes you feel something when you watch his films, even when the plot isn't that deep. I want to affect people like that.

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

 A director is made of resilience, empathy, and clarity of vision. You have to understand people deeply — both your actors and your audience — and know how to bring out emotion through collaboration. Directing isn’t just about calling the shots; it’s about creating an environment where everyone’s best work can thrive. It takes passion to imagine a story, and discipline to bring it to life.

For you Cinema is....

Cinema is where people go to reconnect with emotion, to be inspired, and to experience stories that remind us what it means to be human.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Absolutely. Black and white films have a unique power because their simplicity strips everything down to emotion and intention. Without the distraction of color, every frame, shadow, and expression carries more weight. It forces the audience to focus purely on what the artist wants them to feel — the emotion behind the image rather than the surface of it.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

I think about it every day. But more than just dreaming about winning an Oscar, I try to approach every project — every shot — like it deserves one. If you treat each moment like it’s worthy of that level of excellence, you push yourself and everyone around you to reach higher. You have to believe you can before anyone else will.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

I think my wife will probably win one first, but someday I think I will, Once I'm ready.

Kristian James is a 100% disabled war veteran. He is also a published children's book author involving the All Hallows' Eve in Salem trilogy where he brought his love of the classic universal monsters to the unofficial town of Halloween, Salem Mass. He is also the writer/director of the independent horror film SLEDGE from 2013. He is a husband to his wife Jessica and father to Abigail Salem.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?

Passion and perseverance. You have to be able to take “no” and not get discouraged and want to quit. Not everyone is going to like your work, and that is fine. Hell, some of the best reviews are negative because there is so much passion in their hatred.

First and last cinematographic crush?

Growing up it was Salma Hayek and now it’s my wife. She is my actress is my short, Mr. Taps. 

 How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?

I have been a fan of acting since I was little. I got into writing and directing in high school. Being able to be creative and be on stage, was fun. Laughter is one of the greatest sounds to me, and that is why I used to do improv and standup comedy.

For you a Film is...

A way to escape. To have fun. A film should make you feel something whether it is joy, fear or sadness.

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

To me it is just fun. Being able to be creative is a passion of mine. Creating and molding a character is exciting because you get to put on a mask and be someone you usually are not.

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’d choose Rick Baker. He was and is my favorite SFX artist. And I’d pick something with amazing practical effects or horror related to ask how he’d do it. I know he is retired but I’d still love to work with him one day. 

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

I do agree with her. In my 40 years I’ve done and experienced a lot between my writing, filmmaking and military career. I’ve constantly reached my goals, and my next goal is to get DEATH BY NIGHT picked up to be made and follow it up with Mr Taps, the feature film to my short film and comic book.

 Can you live just off your passion?

If you are making money from it? Absolutely. If you aren’t, then no. I have a wife and daughter who I provide for, so one day I’d love to live off my passions but right now that isn’t possible. But it doesn’t stop me from writing and creating stories, scripts and films. 

What's more important talent or luck?

I think luck is a big part of things. Getting that one set of eyes on your project can change your life. But you also have to be talented in your work. 

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

An American werewolf in London. It’s my favorite film since I was a kid. It has the perfect mixture of horror and comedy.

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

Yes. I have helped friends make movies that I wasn’t excited about but wanted to help.

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

That their kids love my books and constantly read to them. That brings me happiness. 

Are you satisfied about your career?

I am. I have done a lot, and hope to be able to bring my scripts to life. I have a lot of fun ideas that haven’t been done before. Same with my children’s books. I have been looking for a literary agent for five years, and even though my kids books have sold all around the world, I still haven’t gotten that one “yes” from an agent. That is where some luck would be welcome.

Do you have a good luck charm?

My good luck charm is my grandfathers cross he wore in world war 2. When he passed away I was gifted it and I have taken it with me to Afghanistan and to book signings around the US.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

When something doesn’t work like you need it to. But that’s when you take a step back and rethink it. How can you make it work?

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

Joy and also sadness. I love working with cast and crew and it’s always bittersweet. And you hope you do well so you can get together and do another project.

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

No. I believe in honesty when it comes to what I have accomplished and can do. But if I was going for a role and they needed me to ride a motorcycle I’d probably say “I definitely can!” And then rush to get lessons.

If you should win an Oscar your first thank you would go to…

My wife and daughter. My wife continues to support me and my three year old is my world. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do this again, so I’m thankful. 

Jaaered Brown is the 79th member of the World Genius Directory, winner of the Hollywood International Indie Film Festival & Screenplay Awards for Best First-Time Screenwriter (Short) and winner of the Fusionfilm International Film Festival's: Best Script/Screenplay. He lives in British Columbia, Canada, where he was/is, a House Painter; Northwest Coast Artist; Composer; Creative Consultant; Screenwriter.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenwriter?

2021. I sat on my ideas/projects and even shared one exclusively since 2018. 2021 I knew no one was going to do it so I started writing "A Truth" on Arcstudiopro.

How did your family react?

No reaction. They didn't say anything.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

Taylor Swift was my main muse. I have her playing parts in 3 of my projects.

Who's your biggest fan?

Probably "Outstanding Screenplays." They were the first to show support and follow me on X.

What brings you inspiration the most?

God. He's my source and gave me the ideas, keeps me going with more ideas to write in the scripts. "Unless the LORD builds the house, the workers labour in vain." - Psalm 127:1

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Steven Spielberg. On my project "I HATE ZOMBIES".

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

No. I don't read much books as an adult. Just spiritual stuff like Psalms and Proverbs and the Urantia Book. 

What's the movie that taught you the most?

Maybe The Passion of The Christ. Never thought it could be so bad. (Crucifixions)

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Oh yes. And I did! For roughly 5 years I was a wine-o. Just chain-smoked and drank everyday. September 2019- September 2024. I'm sober now, only drinking non-alcoholic beers.

On set what excites you the most?

Never been on set. I'd like to be on set my projects as a Creative Consultant and learn how movies are made; make sure they're something I'm excited to see still.

And what scares you the most ?

Hell.

What's your next project?

I don't know yet. I'm getting my 2 "completed" scripts from a 7 and 7.5 to at least an 8; reached out to a writer and Wingnut Films to see if they want to collaborate... I'm also trying to write a project called "Vis." Writing out 70 scenes in a sketchbook by hand. I guess that's my next project for now. VIS.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

I think Taylor Swift has the best fanatics who support her... fanatically. She wins all the time and I don't understand why. Maybe hers or be a maverick like Picasso.

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

Low self-esteem - dirt! 

For you Cinema is....

Quite possibly the highest artform.

Do you think Black & White movies have a powerful impact?

Yes! Maybe a hint of colour like my Vis project will have at times...

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Yes. That's why we're here, where we're headed.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

Yes! Oscar, Grammy, Noble Prize are on the bucket list.

Dale Loon Born in Kenora Ontario, and a member of Grassy Narrows First Nation. I enjoy video games, and can’t wait to go back home. Joined Toronto Film School in 2023 to better myself and see what other things I can do with my potential.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I love comedy, I love to laugh. Drama just doesn't hit any strings for me.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Art imitates life. Just by picking up the camera and placing an actor in front just changes perspectives.

Which is the best Moment on set?

I enjoy the whole process of filmmaking, but bringing smiles to my crew would be the best. I enjoy seeing them enjoy themselves and making connections.

Did anyone ever tell you weren’t good enough?

Yes, many many many times while growing up. Being an Indigenous kid/person it was racism and hate that kept punching me down. Literally. But here I stand today doing something with my brain and experiences.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Easy, I’ve lived my life and know what I need to do and must do. Not because I want to, its because I need to.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your job?

No, breakdowns. Just get the job done.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Talent is a blessing, because not everyone is born with it. Not everyone is meant to do the same thing as everyone else, otherwise life would be boring.

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

As far as I know nothing I would need to change. The mistakes I make is what will mould me into whom I need to become. To more mistakes!

If Cinema was a colour what would it be?

It would be pearlescent. Like cinematography you shine light at it in different angles you can get different moods.

A day without a movie is...

A day without storytime. I enjoy stories, just as much as I enjoy videogaming. Both are great storytelling.

If someone offered you to direct a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous, would I accept the job.

No, I am not in this industry to be rich and famous. I often give my services for free to help other young producers.

What’s your greatest ambition?

To help as much people as I can in the film industry.

What’s your biggest fear?

Women. Women are a scary species.

Does music help you to direct/write?

No, its just background noise.

You got a chance to make a Silent Movie, what is your message to the audience?

You can free yourself

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

I should not be standing up here. I am not who created this film. The ones that

created this is my crew. I just stood on a chair and told the real workers what I

wanted and they made the magic happen. This is going to my crew, not me.

Kevin B. Ploth, born March 19, 1972, in New York City, is a multifaceted U.S. Army veteran, filmmaker, writer, actor, and chef. A lifelong New Yorker and Bronx resident, he is a proud father of three. Influenced by his parents—his mother, Liz (M. Raynor) Ploth, a Broadway producer during its Golden Age, and his father, Bruce M. Ploth, a photographer and Vietnam-era Naval School of Photography alumnus—Kevin pursued a career in entertainment. He studied at West Virginia Wesleyan and the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, becoming the youngest member of organizations like PART, PALP, and the Drama Guild in the early 1990s. As COO of ARTIMIS Theatrical Productions LLC, a veteran-run company, he prioritizes hiring veterans and first responders. His creative work includes writing and directing award-winning projects like The Giant and the documentary This Stitching Will Last. He is also a SAG-AFTRA member and published author.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I prefer both as in life a duality.  Both are necessary and essential to great story telling.  The late great Joesph Campbell(Power of Myth) and historian legend John Keegan (Mask of Command).  Great comedy has great drama and Great drama has great comedy.  Hence Shakespeare the master of human nature. 

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Yes to push the point further, it also portrays the lie of life and the absurdity of it all. 

Which is the best Moment on set?

The words “Action” and then “Checking the Gate”

 Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

Yes all my life. From elementary to recently.

Kids picked on me called me Myreon up till I got tall and fought back.  Recently had producers from “Hidden Exposure” when I first asked them for help on GIANT tell me…”…not worth my time go invest in Gramerly!”.  Mind you I have suffered severe dyslexia since child hood.  Well I showed them and here we are.  Their projects lost and made no money and “WE” are winning.  “WE” is my contra and culture.  No “ME” without the “WE”!  We culture is import and surrounds you with people who are good not ones who criticize or shun.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

One needs a strong back bone and drive.  Always uphill and always charge through.  Drive on and Keep on Keeping on.  For me that’s how my goals are hit and realized.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

No.  Why because of my upbringing and constitution.  Still it is okay to breakdown but as a leader it needs to be private and compartmentalized.  Read the book I mentioned above “The Mask of Command”

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Both and how you function with it along with good mental health can be balanced.  The ID/EGO is a powerful force.  Not many have real talent or gift. Today a big issue is a lot of individuals have been wrongfully told they have and then as we see over and over again the sad end of such.

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

Compassion.  Not get activated quickly by the greed and outlandish demands of talent, crew and agents. To be a even better listener.

What's the worst critic you have received?

The one that has stuck with me since 1991 was from the Philadelphia Gay News on the role of Rodrigo I played in Shakespeare’s OTHELLO for PART(Philadelphia Area Repertory Theatre) my first paid Equity gig at age eighteen and they said quote unquote “….flat, lifeless and unengaging…” it went further even badged our Desdemona Dena Howe. I found funny and moved on Dena was upset.  The truth was the the critic was at the show and after party and kept making advances and I told him numerous times “NO!” and “I don’t stuff things for his team!”. I guess he did not like it or my stance.  Hence the review and I stand by that.

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

Well I grew up in the business thanks to my mom and dad.  Originally before all this was my pursuit of Forensic Medicine and Military History and I still kind of do both now.  I am share credits for my masters in history and have a associate background in Criminology.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Vibrant pulsating sexual life giving “SUN”

 A day without a movie is...

Silence 

 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?

We all have and unfortunately what most don’t get this is “A BUSINESS!” so I have responsibilities and a family and pay check is a paycheck and anyone says otherwise are full of crap!

What's your greatest ambition?

To be at peace and eventually run for office 

What's your biggest fear?

Failing my team and family 

Does music helps you to play/direct, write?

Constantly! When I hear something I start formulating scenes, scenarios, dialogue and actions.  I love love soundtracks.  Ennio Morricone is my ultimate Master Maestro since age of three.  I used to say “Bip Bum” that was for “Good Bad & The Ugly” I own several mint records and signed ones by him.  I so miss his Craft.

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

Funny you mention that.  I am working on “Silent Room” about a father and room of his child taken from gun violence at a school shooting.  The message would be definitely a punch to the gut and pulls heavy on the heart.

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

I never had one or rehearsed one.  Ever I thank my family for not allowing that to happen.  I deal it is fake and phony.  I like raw real and unplanned like life.  

My Speach to humor you: “YES!” Mom/Dad and team ARTIMIS! 

Tahir is a multi-award winning creative, a versatile actor, singer, presenter and voice actor, who has worked both in front and behind the camera in multi award-winning writer director Rahat Kazmi's Love in Vietnam - a historic first co-production between India and Vietnam inspired by the Turkish bestseller 'Madonna in a fur coat'. For his this own written and directed works, Tahir has also received international recognition in the form of various awards, nominations and official selections

 When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?

There was always a slow-burning fuse because I have been performing since the age of 7. Though most recently I sustained an injury due to which I was left bed bound for around 3 months. Not being able to sit upright to do any legal work (as opposed to illegal work), meant I had time to think about my life choices. That’s when I came to the realisation that it was now or never. During that period that took stock of my skills and abilities and thought to myself, I trained as a journalist and a wig and gown wearing courtroom advocate (barrister in England UK) and so story telling in compelling ways is pretty much what I am trained to do. It then became a greater realisation that cinema is probably the most powerful way to translate that thought into emotion, and emotion into change. So that injury, became the catalyst for change in that I began to fan the flames of passion by proactively pursuing a childhood dream of working as a creative. being a dream and has increasingly become a responsibility.

How did your family react?

With the usual cocktail of disbelief at life choices mixed in with a few sprinkles of mild amusement. To family, it was far more important that I’d had a 'proper job’ whatever that means in this day and age. Yet every time, I would finish a phone call to a client I’d find myself humming a tune, or giving film related examples to clients on perseverance of the human spirit. In time, they, I’m sure are coming to terms with the idea that I am carving my filmmaking dreams into a reality. 

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

I consider my father to be my role model - a man who sacrificed his dreams and passions in the hope of giving his family a better quality of life and has done so with immense patience and humility - probably more patience with me! As for muse, it seems to me that the human condition in itself, with its flaws and contradictions and often the inability to truly change, for the better, yet some, you wouldn’t think it when looking at people oppressing others, having the capacity to empathise,  despite many world leaders lacking a real backbone. 

Who's your biggest fan?

I suppose in some way, myself. Not only a critic but also a fan. I say that because of course, I always, like many people overthink, analyse in the depths of despair and eventually flip the script and tell myself that this is actually pretty good.

What brings you inspiration the most?

Quiet observation and silence - That, more often than not, can be most revealing  because it allows for stories to reveal themselves.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Most people would easily parrot off a list of some of the most renowned names which ion course is admirable. I admire those who are unafraid collaborators because they bring courage to the set - and that people unafraid of risk. That’s not to say that names don’t matter, though it's just as important to work with those who are passionate and driven enough to make a difference. 

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

I don’t think of films and books in that manner. If I watch a film and then read a book, it’s easier to imagine the actors when reading. Conversely, it’s always challenging to be immensely true to a book for a movie. Each is a different medium - each to be enjoyed in its own right and often one compliments the other. 

What's the movie that taught you the most?

It’s difficult to encapsulate learning into just one movie because almost every movie has a message. From the Matrix, to Batman Begins to Inception, each has inspired me in its own way.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Never. To give up and quit would be an immense injustice to myself and to all the people who believe in me. If anything, I am planning on a number of things so watch this space.

On set what excites yuo the most?

Seeing the actors bringing characters to life as soon as the word ‘action' echoes in the air is always powerful and inevitably exciting because it brings a sense of achievement to everyone’s hard work that goes in to a project.

And what scares you the most ?

That in this day and age, too many people tend to react first and don’t scratch the surface, thereby falling victim to the propaganda machinery.

 What's your next project?

I am glad you have asked me that - there are actually two projects. One is due to release on 12 September 2025 is called Love in Vietnam Written and directed by Rahat Shah Kazmi, Love in Vietnam was India and Vietnam’s first ever co-production and I was the Supervising Producer on this. This is by far the biggest project which I have helped to bring to life playing a significant role behind the camera and a cameo role front of camera too.Then, I have written a horror feature film with elements of the supernatural and psychological which, I’d love to say is a secret but it's the worst kept secret because, having shot the trailer as a proof of concept, I’ve already won multiple awards for it.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

From a legal background, I don’t advocate stealing as that just attracts negative karma. What I’d always want is the courage to persevere. 

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

An education from the university of life as well as the gift and skill of being able to analyse the human condition it all it flaws and glory.

For you Cinema is....

An escape, an alternative perspective - perhaps even momentary time travel because it lets us step into the shoes of the characters and experience their truth societal truth through the actors. 

Doyou think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Yes without any shadow of a doubt. Movies such as Nosferatu in horror and even Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy remind us that even the shadows, are an integral aspect of the art of storytelling.

 Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

From my perspective, it's far more important for me to focus bringing characters to life on screen . Of course, in the event that that comes with additional  recognition through awards, then that’s a bonus.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

Ask me after I’ve made the film which challenges me the most, both off and on-screen.

(Photos by Desislava Lizova)

James G. Maynard is an award-winning filmmaker and AI innovator on a mission to democratize the art of cinema. Through AI Creator House and its associated guild of filmmakers, Maynard pioneers a new cinematic language, masterfully blending cutting-edge AI with proven filmmaking techniques. This approach empowers a global community of creators to tell powerful, human-centric stories outside the traditional studio system. A multi-instrumentalist and former science educator, he believes technology's highest purpose is to serve humanity—a philosophy vividly brought to life in his feature film, Nobody Believes Cassandra. When not building the future of film, he enjoys life in Tucson with his wife, Nicole, and their adorable tabby cat, Max.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I’ve always believed that comedy and drama aren't opposing forces; they're two essential sides of the same coin. Drama holds a mirror up to our humanity, allowing us to examine its complexities and truths. Comedy, on the other hand, is the pressure valve that gives us a necessary respite from life's harsher realities. As a filmmaker, my preference depends entirely on which tool the story demands— though I’ll admit, dark humor - particularly in drama - can be great fun.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

It’s the ultimate creative feedback loop, and I’m a firm believer in both. Look at science fiction: shows like Star Trek literally inspired generations of scientists to build the tech they saw on screen. Now, those real-world advancements push us to imagine even wilder, more sophisticated futures for our stories. Art reflects the life we know, and then life strives to catch up to the art we dream of. It’s our job as creators to dream big enough to keep things interesting.

Which is the best Moment on set?

In animation, our "set" is often a quiet room of glowing screens, but the magic is no less potent. For me, the absolute best moment is that first time a character I’ve lived with for so long only in my head is fully rendered, voiced, and animated, and shown to someone else—finally stepping out into the world. It’s a surreal and profoundly rewarding feeling, like introducing a dear friend you’ve been talking about for years to a room full of people, and they instantly hit it off.

Did anyone ever tell you you weren't good enough?

Constantly! If you’re creating anything with a point of view, you’re inviting criticism. I learned early on that you can’t please everyone, and more importantly, that isn’t the goal. My job isn’t to stand still and answer every critic; it’s to keep moving forward and make more films. The work itself is the only

response that truly matters.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

A truly industrial amount of coffee is my first-line defense, I won’t lie. But the real secret is in the edit —both in film and in life. I break down monumental tasks into tiny, manageable segments. Instead of “edit a feature,” my goal becomes “perfect these three shots.” It makes the process less daunting and

turns a marathon into a series of satisfying sprints, each one a small victory on the path to the finish line.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

I think every artist flirts with that feeling of the summit being utterly unattainable. There are moments where the vision in your head feels miles away from what’s on the screen. But you learn that those moments are temporary, and you can’t let them win. The most important lesson is that the next great accomplishment, the next breakthrough, is almost always right around the corner—but you’ll only find it if you stubbornly, relentlessly keep moving forward.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

It’s the ultimate double-edged sword. I believe every single person is immensely talented at something, but having that talent stifled or dismissed can be a tragic curse. The true blessing isn’t just possessing a talent, but getting the freedom to follow it. When you find that alignment, it’s liberating in a way nothing else can be—though it does come with the eternal curse of never being able to turn off the creative part of your brain, even when you’re trying to sleep.

What would you like to improve about yourself as a filmmaker?

I’m endlessly fascinated by the technological frontier we’re on. At my studio, AI Creator House, we're already merging live-action with AI-generated characters and sets to create films that were once impossible on our scale. The next step for me is to dive even deeper into that collaboration between the

real and the imagined. I’d love to work more intimately with live actors, harnessing their raw, human energy to ground our most fantastical creations and bring a new level of emotional truth to this hybrid art form.

 What's the worst critic you have received?

Ah, you’ve touched a nerve with a classic! Following the release of my first feature, I received a middling review. No problem, thick skin and all that. The real dagger came when I politely asked if I could use a snippet from it for promotional purposes. The reviewer wrote back to say she’d prefer not

to be publicly associated with the film at all. Oofta. It was a masterclass in having nine months of work not just disliked, but utterly dismissed. You have to laugh at the audacity of it—after you’ve finished crying, of course.

If you weren't a filmmaker, what would you like to be?

I’d almost certainly be a science educator, a field I’ve worked in and adore. At its core, both science and storytelling are about cultivating a sense of wonder. Filmmaking allows me to build new worlds, but science reveals the breathtaking magic of the one we already inhabit. I’d just be swapping one form

of world-building for another, probably with fewer late-night editing sessions and much more reliable hours.

 If Cinema was a color, what would it be?

Without a doubt, it would be silver. Not a flat grey, but the electric, reflective silver of the movie screen in that hushed moment just before the projector flares to life. It’s a color pregnant with potential, a blank canvas that promises every color of the spectrum is about to explode across it. It represents that

perfect, anticipatory silence where anything is possible—and that’s pure magic.

A day without a movie is...

A day without a journey. Whether it’s in a grand theater or in a living room, a film is a passport to another perspective, another emotion, another world. So a day without one isn't a tragedy, but it's certainly less interesting, less inspired, and a little less magical. It’s like forgetting to add the spice to a

meal—it'll still sustain you, but it won't give you any thrill.

What's your greatest ambition?

My greatest ambition is to put Hollywood on everyone's desktop. I want to dismantle the gates held by megastudios and empower a new generation of filmmakers, writers, and artists with the transformative

power of generative AI. This isn't just about technological disruption; it's a reclamation of the human narrative. I dream of a world where stories celebrating the poor, the disadvantaged, and the overlooked—those

too often ignored by vested financial interests—can be told with production value that rivals the biggest blockbusters. My latest series—including the sci-fi anime The Wayfarer, as well as Dice and Destiny - a storyline set on the boundaries of 90s grit and mythological surrealism—all tell stories of the people.

What's your biggest fear?

That independent filmmakers will hesitate to embrace generative AI. We currently have a priceless head start against the slow-moving, bureaucratic studio systems. My fear is that this window of opportunity will close before we fully seize it. This technology is the ultimate equalizer, and we need to

use it now to cement a future where creative vision, not just budget, determines what gets seen by the world.

Does music help you to create?

Absolutely, and often it’s the starting pistol. I frequently begin the editing process by scoring a scene first, then building the visual rhythm and emotion to match the music. As a multi-instrumentalist, I love blending the organic with the generated—layering live string performances or foley sounds over AI

visuals to create a unique texture. In my latest feature, Nobody Believes Cassandra, that hybrid approach is the heartbeat of the film, grounding its fantastical elements in something tangible and human.

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

audience?

I actually ventured close with The AI Man, an AI-powered homage to Buster Keaton's The Cameraman. My message would be a timeless one: that humanity is the constant. No matter how advanced our technology becomes, the core of our stories—the comedy, the struggle, the connection—remains

unchanged. The tools evolve, but the heart of the tale is, and always will be, about us.

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

"I have to thank my wife, Nicole Hennig, an AI creator and educator extraordinaire who is my true partner in every aspect of any world in which I venture. To Max, our adorable tabby cat—our offspring from another species who provides essential emotional support. And, although they each have passed on, thanks to my grandfather, Omer, who gave me my first movie camera, and to my father, RobertMaynard, who never once told me to be more practical with my dreams. And finally, to everyindependent filmmaker and artist boldly using AI to redefine what's possible—this is for us. This is a great honor. Thank you for believing that the future of film is for everyone."

Kamal Rahyab is an award-winning filmmaker seeking to introduce nuanced portrayals of brown stories to wider audiences. He has worked for brands such as Nike, Puma, and Solo New York. His film 'Rahyab' is currently in the festival circuit and has been accepted into the Tribeca Canva Program.

What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?

The best ingredient to be a good storyteller is to be a good listener. Many of us hear others, but how many actually listen? This is a fundamental skill we learn as actors and filmmakers. This world is always talking to you; you just have to learn to listen.

First and last cinematographic crush?

I grew up with the Harry Potter movies so Hermonie Granger, played by Emma Watson was my first movie crush. Lately, I've been partial to Ana de Armas and Margot Robbie. After all, who wouldn't be?

How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?

I wanted to be an actor for as long as I could remember, but I officially told my family at the age of 5, to mixed results. After watching countless movies, particularly Charlie Chaplin and Jacques Tati ones, I decided I wanted to write and direct as well; that was when I was around 12 years old. I haven't given up since and I've gotten to do some pretty cool stuff. 

For you a Film is...

An adventure into the mind of a creative team. Being truly engaged in a film is like riding the Magic School Bus straight into the neurons that construct an idea. A film is many things, but for me it's fun.

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

I know it's working when I feel invigorated by the idea and all its possibilites. Director Sidney Lumet once said the key to directing is making sure everyone is making the same movie. If you're lucky enough to feel that, if you see each and every person working hard to realize your concept, you'll never want to stop making movies. 

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 whatch it?

If we're including the deceased, I'd go to the movies with Robin Williams in a flash. I can already hear the commentary he'd give. But if we're limited to the living, I'd gotta go with Martin Scocerse, a master of cinema who'd undoubtedly teach me a thing or two.

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

about it?

A prominent VFX supervisor said "nothing is impossible if you have enough money". But for most indie filmmakers, money is never in abundance. It's important to know your limits but it's also crucial to work outside them.

I'd love to be seen agreeing with Audrey Hepburn and I think that's a powerful attitude to have when you're making movies. There's so many limitations that it's easy to complain and say it's impossible. But that's when you must keep moving forward and push yourself. Maybe some things are impossible, but you have to try anyway.

Can you live just of your passion?

I want to live a life I'm passionate about, and I'd love to live solely on film work. But I've learned that your bills don't care about your passions. I don't see any shame in having a day job to pay your expenses, and I've been happier now that I can balance my job with my career. 

What's more important talent or luck?

Talent is more important than luck. Luck will get you in the right rooms, but talent keeps you in there. Not everyone is lucky enough to be a Hollywood star, but if you're talented enough, you'll find work.

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

It's gotta be Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, the extended edition, of course.

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even

if you didn't like the project?

Yes, I was an actor on Netflix's Zero Day with Robert De Niro. Frankly, the script was terribly full of cliches but Netflix money talks. Moreover, I was a director for a commercial for handbags, something I'm not particularly passionate about. But as an artist, you have to make yourself interested in your work. Otherwise, it falls flat.

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

For my debut documentary about my father, a prominent cinematographer from Korea said he'd be willing to do it for free because the story was compelling. It also inspired him to make a documentary about his father.

Are you satisfied about your career?

I won't be satisfied until I run my own production company.

Do you have a good luck charm?

Petting my cat Tigger.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

The worst moment is when you're behind schedule and the 1st AD and the DP are arguing, unsure what to do next. The director is being indecisive and the producer is trying to take over the set.

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

I feel grateful for the time I spent and I hope I did a good job. It is a bit sad to part ways with your friends, but it's also a relief that you can go back home. 

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

I've lied many times to get a job. My film school professors have a motto: Say yes to the job, then figure out how to do it later. I've lied about knowing Avid to get an AE job and now I'm fluent in the software.

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

My family, who's always supported me no matter what. 

Literally a jack of all trades, I've been very interested in filmmaking for many years and after having acted in a dozen independent films, I decided it was my time to step up and make a film very near and dear to my heart.

When did you realize you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?

I got into acting by pure accident.  I got a call from a filmmaker wanting to buy the rights to a book I had written.  We didn’t come to an agreement but he mentioned that by the looks of my bio and where I lived he had a friend that was making an independent film nearby and said I might be perfect for one of the parts and could he forward my information.  I got a call a few days later from the producer and asked if I could meet him at one of the filming locations.  I did, and I got the part on the spot.  Just seeing how everything worked even on a small production, I knew that this was something that I had to do.

Do you remember your first time at the Movies?



Back when I was growing up, it was always a big deal to see the newest Disney movie.  I think it was the movie “The Love Bug” that was my first.  I remember everyone in the theatre laughing and having such a fun time.  A truly funny movie even today.

If you should change country where would you like to work?

It would have to be Italy without a doubt.  That is my wife and my favorite place to visit.  We go there a couple of times a year for weeks and it still doesn’t feel like enough.



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

One of my all-time favorite films is “Paint Your Wagon” starring Clint Eastwood and Lee Marvin among many other acclaimed cast members.  I just love the setting and the plot/story expressed in the film.  It has some amazing songs and is extremely funny as well.

My second would have to be “The Godfather”.  It’s such an iconic film that touches on so many subjects of importance.  Having recently watched the documentary about how it got made and how much the studio seem to disagree with every choice made by the Producer’s makes me love it even more.

What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?

I think they are good place for people to learn and improve their craft, but like many schools, I think some people spend too much time learning and not enough time actually doing.  If you want to perfect your craft, do the actual work.

Have you ever hated your ambition?



I’ve definitely questioned myself during the time of making this first film.  The old phrase “Imposter Complex” definitely comes to mind.  But I learned a long time ago that if you don’t trust and believe in yourself, no one else will.

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



I think film lovers are great people, as long as it doesn’t consume them or their lives.  In this day we see so many people doing nothing but having their eyes glued to a screen, living their lives vicariously through film.  I say, enjoy the films, but not at the expense of your own life and experiences.

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



When I hear the word “Cinema, I think of a smaller movie theater showing a black and white film.  Today we have these massive theaters with all the latest sound systems and gigantic screens.  Those have their place of course, but I’ll take the intimate smaller theatre every time.

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



Having watched a ton of films and interviews, I would have to say that everything I have heard and learned about Clint Eastwood’s moving making style inspires me the most.  Of course he has 70 years of experience, but I like his approach of being able to take a story and really draw the audience in to feel like they are part of it.

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



For my film, I am the Production Company Owner, Executive Producer, Director and Interviewer.  Running all of this has been an amazing experience and now with seeing success, it feels like an amazing achievement and a dream come true.  My worst nightmare was the thought that after all this time, effort and money that my film would be a flop.  Kind of like throwing a lavish party and having no one show up.  Now, after only having been released 2 months ago and having already won over a dozen film festivals, that fear is going away and the realization that I did make a good product is starting to sink in.

How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?



That is something that I think is missing in a lot of places around the county and world.  There are so many amazing small production films that will never make it to a big screen and may only exist on a small platform.  Having film-festivals and exposure to a greater audience is so very important to both the people that create the films but also to the viewing audience.  I always am encouraging people to take a chance on some unknown film because not only did someone take a chance on pursuing their dream, but you might find something that truly speak to you.

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



As this is my first film and done so much of it on my own.  I think the best way I could improve is to be more willing to take chances and trust others to do what they do best.  A great example of this is my Editor Dan Pred.  I had some ideas for what I wanted to do and he very professionally told me that he would do it, but he didn’t think it would be the best for the film.  He literally saved me from myself and I can’t give him enough credit.  Without him, I would not have anything close to the film I have today.

A big producer give 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?



This is a tough one.  We see so many remakes of classics and more often than not, they totally miss the mark of the film or change to be more in line with current times and thinking.  What made all those old films the classics they were is that they were done in that day, with that time of thinking.  I think we should leave the classics alone and instead create new classics.

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

I know I should say my wife, but in all honesty it is my Editor.  When I was in total doubt about the project I just finished, he would encourage me to keep going by reminding me about the amazing interviews and footage that we have and that we already have an amazing product, we just need to bring it all together, which he did.  I honestly believe that without his steadfastness and belief, my film would probably still be sitting in a computer gathering dust.

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



I think having a great script is one thing, but if you don’t have a person(s) with the dream to bring it to life, it is nothing more than words on paper.  Going back to the documentary on the Godfather film, Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola had such true vision for the film and although they had a good script, if not for their belief and vision we would not have the Godfather.

What’s your most ambitious project for the future?

I would like to make a film based on the book I wrote a dozen years ago, but I’m not sure I’m quite ready for that.  I definitely would like to do another documentary and have one in the early stages of development.

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

I think that it can, but for myself if I were to be feeling sad or melancholy it is about something that I am dealing with personally and so it is more introspective versus thinking about a broader genre.  I am by nature an easy-going happy type of person and I like to create in such a way that spreads that type of mindset.

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

Knowing that I created something that brought happiness to others and they were able to connect to the people in my film.  We have such amazing showings already and when I see and hear the feedback from the audience and how I was able to produce something that touches a total stranger and even the interviewees themselves, that is something that I truly cherish.