Ryo Sakamoto - Interview
Born in 1996. In 2015, Ryo joined the filmmaking club in the University of Tokyo. He's director and cinematgrapher and his film "雨に濡れたい気持ち" won the Rookie of the year award in Hamamatsu film festival in Japan. His last film "God's Will Hunting" won the "Best Indie Feature Film" at the London Movie Awards. After graduating from graduate school, he's making films while working as a company employee.
When did you decide you wanted to be a director?
When I was in high school, I watched "Stand By Me" and wanted to make a film with my good friends independently. Upon entering college, I joined a filmmaking club. While making films in the club, I was attracted to the fun of making and directing films.
How did your family react?
Nothing. However, it is not possible to make a living as a film director in Japan (even more so with independent films), so I am making films while working as a company employee.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
My motto is "I am the role model". The directors I admire and like very much are Alfred Hitchcock, Hou Hsiao-hsien and Stanley Kubrick.
The actor I admire is Ingrid Bergman.
Who's your biggest fan?
The actors and crew.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Taking a walk. Landscape. A road, A cityscape, or people passing by. Also the newspaper is important for me to make a story. I inspired several news and columns.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Umm, I don't know. Someone I can get along with.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
I rarely read books so I don't know.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
There are so many movies that I've learned a lot from.
Many of Hitchcock's films, Kubrick's, Yasujiro Ozu's, and The Third Man, A Brighter Summer Day, Dust in the Wind, Gaslight, etc.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Never
On set what excites you the most?
When luck is on our side when the actors and crew are doing their best work.
Luck is such as wind, weather, birds flying, actor's unconscious actions(like walking, standing, eye contact etc.).
And what scares you the most ?
Losing and breaking data.
What's your next project?
I am writing a script that will shake up your view of life and death.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Alfred Hitchcock or Steven Spielberg.
A director is made of....
Everlasting love for film and joy of expression.
For you Cinema is....
The best way to express what I think and feel.
Cinema taught me everything I needed to know about life.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I don't think colored movies beat black and white yet. In terms of film direction,I think light and shadow are more suitable for film than colorfulness.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I dreamed last night.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
I try not to think about that because I should make what I believe in rather than what I flatter.
Kevin Courtney - Interview
Kevin A Courtney is a director and actor from Toronto, Ontario. His short film "Against Reason" starring Paige Evans and Jake Wilkinson explores modern love and some of the issues that ubiquitous social media present in a relationship.
When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director?
As a child I always wanted to be an actor. I think storytelling is a big part of my family’s culture and so theatre and film were always really attractive mediums. I remember my parent's taking me to see Fame, and Mamma Mia, and The Lion King, and being enamoured with the productions. It wasn’t until high school that I began to become aware of what it meant to be a director and that you had more creative control in that role. That became fascinating to me, but still I didn’t really see it as a realistic path at that time. It wasn’t until after University that I ‘decided’ to pursue directing.
How did your family react?
I’ve always been very lucky to have the most supportive parents anyone could ever ask for. They’ve always just wanted what’s best for me and for me to be happy which I’m so thankful for. I think in the beginning they might have had some concerns about the financial feasibility of this career, but I think those concerns were quickly quelled once I started getting steady commercial directing gigs.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Role models; I feel like there are so many. Spike Jonze, Mark Duplass, Derek Cianfrance, I mean I could go on and on, there are so many directors who I look up to.
Who's your biggest fan?
Easily my parents. It isn’t even close.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Other films. Nothing makes me hungrier to write or work on the next project than finishing watching a movie that’s really made me feel something.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Actors; I think Jessica Chastain and Mahershala Ali would have to be my top 2 right now, but again…there are so many talented actors I’d love to work with.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
That’s a great question…Maybe The Social Network? That movie came out when I was in grade 11 and I remember watching it over and over again just finding it so satisfying. The aesthetic, the performances, the writing, I think it’s perfect. It’s both a masterpiece and masterclass in storytelling in my opinion
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Not once.
On set what excites you the most?
I feel like this goes without saying but that moment when a scene is coming to life exactly how you envisioned it. There was a scene in Against Reason where there’s a confrontation between our two main characters and I got so wrapped up in Jake and Paige’s performance that I forgot to yell cut. I remember everyone looking around at each other after, eyes wide as if to say “holy, that was it”. It was a goosebump inducing moment.
And what scares you the most ?
Being behind schedule. Shooting an independent short film running behind usually means having to compromise on your shot list or only being able to give your actors a limited number of takes. It’s a terrible feeling. Knowing that with more time you could’ve done better is hard to reconcile with, especially if you’re reminded of that in the editing process.
What's your next project?
I’m working on a feature script set in Glasgow right now. I don’t want to give too much away since it’s still a work in progress, but it’s a personal story inspired by my family in Scotland that’s very dear to me.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
This is another great question; I’m going to say Jon Favreau. He’s gotten to dip his toes in so many cool corners of cinema as both an actor and director. Everything from Friends, to Swingers, to Star Wars, and Marvel. He’s had an incredibly cool career and is pushing the medium forward.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Empathy, compassion, and awareness of the world around you.
For you Cinema is....
I've always thought cinema was kind of a unique art form because it's the art that combines all other mediums. Music, Photography, Visual Art, Writing, Performance. It requires so much collaboration amongst various disciplines to create something cohesive. It really does take a village.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Assuming we’re talking about contemporary films that are made to be black and white; yeah, they certainly can. It does seem to be having a resurgence doesn’t it? Some of my favourite recent movies are black and white; Malcolm and Marie, Belfast, C’mon C’mon, Blue Jay. They all have very distinct tones set by the colour.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I mean I think we’ve all dreamed of it, right? To a lot of people it’s the pinnacle of filmmaking. I’ve thought about it many times.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
Hahaha I feel like this is a loaded question. I think we all strive for that and obviously it would be amazing, but more than anything I just want to try to focus on telling stories that resonate with people in some sort of way.
Preethy Cherian - Interview
Mom of three, coffee lover and entrepreneur, I hail from Kerala in India. After my MA in English literature from University of Kerala, I won the prestigious Charles Wallace India Trust fellowship for creative writing at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. I love to paint, write poetry, and travel during my free time'.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good writer?
Imagination combined with language skills for a screenwriter, plus the drive to keep going in spite of all odds and ends.
First and last cinematographic crush?
None yet
How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a writer?
In my thirties
For you a Film is..
A powerful medium to convey your message to many people across the world.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
I get carried away into another world and sometimes get totally lost. It takes me a while to come back
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that
love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?
I would like to watch a movie that conveys a beautiful message and has the power to change the viewers. I would like to watch it with Indian actor/director Aamir Khan. Reason: he's got brains.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think
about it?
At least you have got to try to know whether it's possible or impossible.
So try everything.
It depends on so many factors. If u really want it go for it.
Can you live just of your passion?
Yes, if passion and work are the same.
What's more important, talent or luck?
Talent first. I don't believe in luck. Everything happens for a reason. I would like to rewrite luck as a Blessing from God.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Love this question. That one movie will be ‘Passion of Christ.’
Have you ever accepted a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
Nope, I rejected two scripts because I felt they had wrong messages.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
My friends are always my greatest supporters. They hoped more than I hoped and believed more than I believed. They were really disappointed when I didn’t write. Told me I am going to make it great.
Are you satisfied about your career?
Yes.
Do you have a good luck charm?
Nope
Which is the worst moment on set?
None yet
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
Relieved and sad at the same time.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Nope
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to....
God!!!!!!!
Matthew J. Roch - Interview
After attending New York Film Academy I've gone on to direct multiple plays off off broadway. Looking to transition to the big screen I moved to Los Angeles where I started off acting for a theater company. From there I wrote 4 feature length films. I've written, acted, and directed multiple shorts and currently looking to fund one of my features.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I much prefer comedy over drama but feel I receive much more work in drama.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
For my personal writing style I believe art imitates life. I always try to write about current topics that happen in the world that people can relate to.
Which is the best Moment on set?
My favorite moment on set is the first day of principle photography. It's getting the cast and crew together to create something beautiful. It's the initial moment that this idea is finally a reality. The feeling of joy in that moment is indescribable.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Ever since the moment I decided to go this route with my life my friends and family told me I didn't have what it took. They laughed and encouraged me not to. I had two choices, believe in myself or believe in them and now I'm here sharing my story with you.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
The only way I was able to stay focused on my goal was to find people who were just like me. Just starting out and looking to work and create no matter what. I blocked out all the other noise and kept my nose down in my art. I've yet to lift it up and look around.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
I've been fortunate to never have a breakdown at work because I've always made great friends where I go and we keep each other entertained and laughing. I consider myself lucky to be doing what I have so I can keep filming.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
I believe talent can be both a curse and a blessing. If a talented person does not have the right guidance and coaching then it can make them frustrated and resentful which could ultimately curse them. But with the right guidance and nurturing of one's talent it can turn into a beautiful blessing for the world to see.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an
actor/director/screenplayer?
I would like to keep improving all my skills to pursue higher levels. As a screenwriter I would like to improve the stories I write so I can make my audience feel what I was thinking. As an actor I would like to improve on embodying my characters better so I can make them more believable and relatable to my audience so they can feel the struggle my character feels. As a director I would like to improve my leadership skills so I can always have the confidence that no matter what my cast and crew can always trust to turn to me for all their needs.
What's the worst critic you have received?
Fortunately, for myself my work has never made it to a high platform so I've never had too many critics. Ultimately, I would have to be my worst critic at this juncture in my career and I hope that no matter what level of success I achieve may it always be that way.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
If I was not in the arts I might try having a career as a soccer coach. It's a sport I grew up playing my whole life and traveled around playing. I still have great love for the game and personally train my nieces and nephews when I have time.
f Cinema was a color what would it be?
To me I don't think cinema could be just one color. I would like to think of my film as white light and the projector is the prism and out on the screen comes all these beautiful colors for people to sit back and enjoy. I think if they were to just sit back and only see one color they would get up and leave. I'd like to think that it holds every color there is and it's our job to have them displayed on the screen.
A day without a movie is...
It's extremely rare that I go a day without watching a film. I always put one on at night before going to bed but a day without one would have to be a day spent enjoying life to the fullest with my loved ones. Those are the kind of days that I find inspiration to write. Those are the days spent living your life as a movie instead of through somebody else's.
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice
but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
In life we all have to do things we don't want to sometimes but I would not do a film I despise for fame and fortune but I would do it if I knew I would get offers for other projects. I've been poor for so long that money doesn't have that large of an effect on me but if it would advance my career to bigger and better opportunities and projects I would like to make then yes I will bite my tongue and do it.
What's your greatest ambition?
My greatest ambition would be to try and have people view the world the same way I see it through my stories. Being able to look at all the finer things in life the way I see them and to not be afraid of living it the way you always dreamed of living it.
What's your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is never being able to raise the funds for my feature length films and being able to make a positive impact on this world.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Music has always been a huge inspiration in my life whether it is for writing, acting, or directing. It will always be a big motivator for me and one of the main drives that keeps me inspired and pursuing. It allows me to easily access emotions needed and set moods when writing and acting. I would have to say it is my go to.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
Silent films are definitely trickier to make in this day and age but I would have to follow in the footsteps of my favorite actor/director of that time Charlie Chaplin. He had the ability to turn any situation into something comical and I guess that is what my message would be to give. No matter what situation you end up in or how bad it may seem just take a step back and learn to laugh at yourself because no matter what it's going to be alright.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I would have never imagined I would be standing here among the greatest accepting this. I was just a kid from a small town with a dream and never believed it would take me here. It's been a great journey and ride getting here and I wouldn't change it for the world. I've made some of the greatest friends along this journey and I wouldn't change it for the world. I hope that I can inspire and encourage others who are too timid to follow their dreams, whatever they may be, to just take that journey and enjoy the ride. You never know where it will take you but I can guarantee you will never look back and regret it. Thank you for this great honor.
Guangping 'Ben' Niu - Interview
Guangping holds a BA in Journalism from Northwest University of Political Science and Law. He also did a summer session at UCLA's School of Theater, Film, and Television, and studied six months' refresher courses at the Beijing Film Academy's School of Literature. Working as a professional editor in Beijing for three years, Guangping made many popular trailers for a lot of Chinese blockbusters, such as The Wandering Earth, Kung Fu Yoga, Little Door Gods, and Detective Chinatown. Some of his previous narrative work includes three award-winning short films: A Picture of Friendship During the Dark Ages, Ashes, and My Life Stopped at 15. His latest short film The Cowboy Pecan Pie will be released soon. He is currently in his second year of the American Film Institute’s Conservatory MFA program in Editing. He understands more about the special connection between footage and editors. He is ready to find more emotional truths in each project and show them to the audience.
When did you decide you wanted to be an Editor?
I come from a remote town in China. There was not one single cinema in my town until I went to high school. At age seven, I watched my first film on a VHS at my best friend's home. I have been so fascinated by the world with 24 fps since then. I love all kinds of films. And I knew that I wanted to be a filmmaker when I was young. In college, I started to make shitty shorts with my friends. We wrote our scripts, directed them, and cut them all by ourselves. During this process, I enjoyed the editing part the most. That's when I knew that I wanted to be an editor in the future.
How did your family react?
My parents are not super supportive at the beginning. Like all the parents in the world, they have certain expectations for me. However, all the parents in the world just want their kids to be happy. When I started my professional career in Beijing 7 years ago, they realized that I am good at editing. They probably sensed my passion and happiness whenever I shared my work with them. So, they finally started to support me.
Do you have a Role Model?
Not really.
But I do have several editors whose works I admire a lot. They are Walter Murch, Tom Cross, and Joe Walker.
Who's your biggest fan?
My wife. Having her by my side makes me the luckiest guy in the world. We've been together for almost ten years, and she's been supportive from the first day we met.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Life itself. Because that's where you discover human's emotional truth, and, for me, a great movie is all about emotional truth.
Also, I always remind myself what life looked like when I was a kid. All the people I met, the things I went through, and the movies I watched are pretty inspiring. Sometimes I feel it's necessary to use a different perspective to view our grown-up life. Sometimes, an adult's world can be pretty scary and distorted. We live in a wild wild world.
Which is the biggest risk for an editor?
I guess all the filmmakers have to deal with the unstable lifestyle. Be grateful when life is good. Be positive when life is hard. That's all we can do.
Is there a book you would love to see becoming a Movie?
The Three-Body Problem.
It's my favorite science fiction novel. I think Netflix is doing their own original series base on this book. Really looking forward to it.
During your career what taught you the most?
Working itself. You decided to spend certain part of your life working on a project. During this process, you encountered all kinds of challenges. You overcame all sorts of difficulties. Finally, your project reached the audience. When you saw the reactions from the audience, you truly realized what was working and not working. That's when you learned your lesson and became a better editor.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Of course. But I won't quit. I know it's not going to be an easy journey. But the outcome can be super rewarding. When you see your edit made all your team members happy, when you see that the audience is going through all kinds of emotional experiences because of your movie, you realize it's all worth it.
Whenever I had a rough time in my career, I just reminded myself of that famous line in All That Jazz. It's showtime!
About your job what excite you the most?
You get the chance to discover so many interesting, unique and great souls through different stories while working with different people in a team.
And what scares you the most ?
As an editor, we have a huge responsibility on our shoulders. It's the last part of making a movie. Everybody in your team puts a tremendous effort into creating the raw footage. You want to make them happy. But at the same time, as an artist, you also need to follow your gut. There is a tricky balance to maintain.
What's your next project?
It's a super unique and heartfelt story about a father and son relationship. It's called Someday All This Will Be Yours. I am really looking forward to it.
Also, my current project The Cowboy Pecan Pie is almost done. My entire team put lots of effort into it, especially our director Paul Cadenhead. We love it. I can't wait to show it to the world.
You can steal the career of an Artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Nobody. Life is hard for everyone. I have no idea what they went through in their career. They just follow their passion and keep trying and trying no matter what. And finally, they became someone that other people could admire. So, I just want to keep trying and trying.
An Editor is made of....
For me, I think a good editor has to be a good listener first.
Patience and stamina are necessary for a good listener.
What is your biggest dream?
Have a bunch of close friends and make movies together until I die.
Do you feel accomplished about your work?
Making movies takes teamwork. Also, you need good luck to create a great film. All I can do is to be ready to push my limit in every project. So, I don't think I will ever feel accomplished. However, I know I will be happy as long as I can keep editing movies.
Shivaan Makker - Interview
Shivaan Makker also goes by Sullivan McGuffin. He is from New Jersey, but lives in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts in 2015. His biggest influences are Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick and Fritz Lang. Shivaan, or Sullivan, loves to write thrillers and make anything with suspense.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I prefer drama. I like to distract myself with other people's problems.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
I think the two go hand in hand. Like they motivate each other. Or push each other. Sometimes even back and forth like day and night.
Which is the best Moment on set?
The best moment on set is when you get the take you want.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Plenty of times, but I don’t let it get to me.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
As an artist I have to constantly create, so I am always researching things that I can incorporate into my writing or work.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Not really.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
The blessing is in the execution of whatever you are doing. The curse is to constantly outdo that.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an
actor/director/screenplayer?
I'd like to procrastinate less...
What's the worst critic you have received?
Someone said that the dialogue seemed forced in one of my first short films.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
I'd probably be an investigator or criminal profiler or something like that.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
It'd be ambiguously black.
A day without a movie is...
A day withered...
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?
I'd probably accept. As long as there is murder involved. In the plot, I mean.
What's your greatest ambition?
Being a great director is an ambition of mine.
What's your biggest fear?
I fear that I'll let my father down as he has a lot of faith in my great ambition.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Yes. Every now and then, I'll hear music while I write. During the production of Pastiche, we played live music to help set the ambience. But, silence is golden.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
People will be driven to do bad things.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I' d like to thank my friends and family for all their support! Then I'd dedicate it to my father, because he really believed in me.
David Anderson - Interview
David Anderson lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He attended film school at New York Film Academy. He produces, directs, and writes films that reflect the political climate and life as a member of the LGBT community.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good Director?
The most necessary ingredient is the love for the craft. If you don't love the craft, you'll never reach your fullest potential. Also, you'll be miserable, and this will show in your creations. Your audiences aren't stupid. They'll know if the director of a movie they're watching has that passion.
First and last cinematographic crush?
My first cinematic crush was the film Big. I was seven years old when my family took me to see the movie Big. I was so in love with it that I began screaming the profanity words that the characters were reciting. My family was so embarrassed that they almost exited the theater. It was a miracle that we stayed until the end credits. The most amazing thing I remember is the floor keyboard. My last cinematic crush is Everybody's Talking About Jamie and In the Heights. Yes, they'll have to share. Sorry, not sorry. Fuck it, not sorry. In both cases, the visuals and the sounds were breathtaking! Everything about them glued me to the screen.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an Filmmaker?
I was 39 when I first decided to be a filmmaker. I was 40 when I attended my first class in film school at New York Film Academy. When I was 39, a mixture of events happened. We were living with COVID minus vaccinations, George Floyd was murdered less than a mile from where I live, and Olivia de Havilland died. I've been a lover of films for as long as I can remember. They've brought me joy, even when my life is spiraling. Now, it's time for me to pass on that passion to audiences and the next aspiring filmmaker.
For you a Film is...
Do you mean an outstanding film or just a film? A film is moving photos. Anybody can do this. People are posting them on social media every day. This includes parties, festivals, get-togethers, just to name a few. An outstanding film is one that is interesting, one that makes me care about the characters/ events, keeps me wanting more, and makes me want to watch it again.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
When I'm writing and directing, I feel like I'm taking part in making this world a better place, and I feel like I'm making my voice heard. I love making films about the LGBT experience and social/ political issues. I hate preaching. I avoid it anytime possible. I understand that there are times when preaching must be done, but my best communication method remains in film.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with whom you're gonna watch it?
Ryan Murphy. I'd attend an LGBT film. I connect with his work because, as noted before, I also specialize in LGBT and political themes. I'd love to exchange ideas on what drives us to make the films we make.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
I think she's spot on. The film industry is constantly proving that the impossible is possible. Even I have been proven wrong by some aspects. The industry has been doing this since the debut of film. Before this, no one ever thought of the possibility of moving objects. Then, no one ever thought of the possibility of magic in film. George Meliés proved the world wrong. No one ever thought that anyone would want sound. 1927, 1928, and 1929 proved the world wrong. Jumping forward a few decades, nobody thought the visual effects of Jurassic Park, Titanic, and Toy Story would happen. They did. Nobody thought that LGBT films would gain in popularity like they have. They did thanks to movies such as Brokeback Mountain, Gods and Monsters, and Love Simon. Moonlight winning the Oscar for Best Picture capped this. I'm excited to witness how the industry evolves in my lifetime.
Can you live just of your passion?
Yes, it's possible. In some careers, you'll have to work your ass off to get to that point. It'll also require some luck. Filmmaking is one of them.
What's more important talent or luck?
Talent is more important. Some people with a lot of luck don't have much talent. Having talent is what makes films enjoyable and easy to the eyes.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Taxi Driver
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
I accepted an acting part in a local play. The directing was all over the place. There were constant re-writes. I understand that re-writes are necessary sometimes, but they happened in every rehearsal. Sometimes, they happened two or three times in a single rehearsal. It was to the point where everyone had a hard time memorizing their lines. At times, we had no idea what the director was thinking. Overall, the play had a great idea and a positive message. However, the audience and I had a hard time following the direction of the project.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
Does being a film student count? If so, "I didn't think that you could do it, but you did!" is the best compliment I've received. This was after I introduced the class to my first film ever. It's called Diagnosis. Apparently, everyone in the class had their doubts about me. I didn't know this until after I made my "film debut". I could have felt insulted, but I didn't. Instead, I made it a driver for me to continue developing my craft.
Are you satisfied about your career?
Ask me that again in 5 years. I'll be able to give a more defined answer by then. So far, no complaints.
Do you have a good luck charm?
No. I don't believe in them.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When I was editing the film Minneapolis, I was using software that was new to me. I had a deadline that was coming close. I was stressing out on how to include the news clips that were necessary for the film. I spent the entire afternoon stressing out on figuring out how to do it. There was a brief moment when I thought I wasn't going to be able to accomplish this. Eventually, I learned the trick. I had to do it quickly. I now have a better understanding of the editing process, I can laugh about it, but it wasn't paradise that afternoon.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of is ending?
I feel empty for a moment because I feel like that chapter is ending. I also feel excited for the audience to watch it.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
As Brittany Murphy quoted in Don't Say a Word, I'll never tell.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to....
...the LGBT community in Minneapolis and St. Paul. They've supported me for years in my endeavors. I owe them gratitude for that, and the biggest night of the movies makes an ideal time to do exactly that.
Srikanth “Sri” Appalaraju - Interview
Srikanth is a passionate film director full of confidence, energy and experience (one movie old)! He’s ready to travel and make films that would some day make him feel proud to say that they are his creations. USA and India are two countries where he has lived for long and felt completely at home. English, Hindi and Telugu are his most comfortable languages.
Why did you decide to become a filmmaker?
All along I’ve been creative; starting from music to writing. I enjoy watching films.
I’m passionate about filmmaking / film direction.
Which movie was the most inspiring for you?
Can’t say any one in particular! Many, many such as Titanic, Pretty Woman, Bollywood and Tollywood movies.
Which director or actor influenced you the most in your life?
Hard to name one. But I like James Cameron, S.L.Bhansali, S.S.Rajamouli, Maniratnam and Shankar.
What were some of the challenges you had to face in making your films?
Not the story. Not the core team. Not the execution. Not the cost control. Not the output quality. Not the associated travel. Not even tolerating the incompetence. Getting associated with the right producer is the one and only challenge!
Do you have a favorite genre to work in? Why is it your favorite?
I like emotional dramas involving romance, comedy and family sentiments. But within that I choose to do ones that bring in something new, call it my signature or whatever and feel different from the routine. These are the kind of movies I feel like watching repeatedly.
What’s your all-time favorite film and why?
TITANIC
Can anybody answer a “why”? It’s the magic that goes beyond the normal logic!
If you could work with anyone in the world, who would that person be?
Leonardo DiCaprio and Deepika Padukone
Tell us something most people don't know about you.
I’m fearless in what I do! And I try to stay that way! I love more than I can ever express!
The one person who has truly believed in you.
My first fan and producer Lakshminarayana Sevilimedu Narasimha of Magnum Opus Films. I’m most indebted to him!
What was the most important lesson you had to learn as
filmmaker?
More patience while being more appreciative of others’ efforts
Is it harder to get started or to keep going?
Both are equally challenging and I sincerely welcome them!
What was the particular thing that you had to conquer to do either?
Fear of any kind whatsoever! Without a challenge life could become monotonous! So also the noise around; such as negativity from the non-believers.
On set, the most important thing is:
Right attitude to understand and get along with the people while being on time and making sure of the output quality
The project(s) you’re most proud of:
I’ve just done one movie only. Feels good but it’s going to be a long way ahead! I can proudly say that I will never be proud, for sure!
The most challenging project you worked on. And why?
The Ant - The Love - and The Girl in between! Because it’s my debut as a filmmaker / film director!
What are your short term and long term career goals?
Short term: Keep on working with the right people on exciting projects in USA, India and all over the world! Long term: Making films that I can feel proud of ! Get as philanthropic as Warren Buffet, the best role model I can think of in that line, some day! Of course for that I need to grow as rich as Elon Musk!
Your next projects?
A romantic thriller - right now fine tuning the script; working on a comedy oriented script as well
Please share with us where people can find you on social media,
so our readers could keep track of your career:
They sure can find me if they can remember my name (which is tricky, I know!):
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/srikanth-sri-appalaraju-44974645
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sriappalaraju
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/srikanth.sri.appalaraju
Instagram: https://instagram.com/srikanth.sri.appalaraju
Website: www.filmdirectorsri.com
Email: sriappalaraju@yahoo.com
WhatsApp: +91.988.521.7997
(The picture above includes from left to right: Lakshminarayana S.N. (film producer), Legendary Singer S.P.Balasubrahmanyam and Srikanth “Sri” Appalaraju).