Interviews & Reviews

For most of his life Maurice Moore has been an actor turned writer, producer, and director. Starting out as a child actor in Steven Spielberg's The Color Purple, he then went on to hone his talent on the stage and screen working in productions from Austin to Los Angeles. He starred in shows as August Wilson's Two Trains Running, Suzan-Lori Parks' Topdog/Underdog and William Shakespeare’s Othello. He's done filmsas Alan Parker's The Life Of David Gale, his own “The Place She Dwells”, Alex Rios' “Dejá Vu” and Chris Dickerson's “Never too Far". Maurice is a writer, director, producer founder of his production company Motivate Pictures, and founder and coach of the Breathe Acting Studio, an Austin training ground for up and coming actors.

When did you decide you wanted to be an actor? 

I was eight years old when Steven Spielberg and Quincy Jones and crew descended upon my hometown of Wadesboro, NC and I had my first opportunity to act in the movie “The Color Purple”. Spielberg, Jones, Danny Glover, Whoopie, and Rae Dawn Chong made me feel very comfortable being on set. Acting was so fun, and the freedom I felt made me think, “hey I would like to do this ALL THE TIME!”

When did you decide you wanted to be a director?

Many years later after I studied theater, in the late 90’s and had become a “professional” actor, I found I was not having the chance to play characters I wanted to play. I decided the best way for me to find the roles I wanted was to create the opportunities myself; by writing and ultimately directing them so I could star in these roles and audiences could see what type an actor I truly was.  The first thing I ever directed was stage shows which led to film, and ultimately directing took over. Now I write, direct, act and produce with my own independent company, Motivate Pictures.

How did your family react? 

After the “The Color Purple” I announced, “I want to be an actor!” and they said, “Boy what you talkin’ about?” (laughs), but it wasn’t until I was a teenager and thinking about college did it become a serious goal. Then is became a little more real for my family who supported me but at the same time said, “you better have a backup plan”.  They asked, “what are you going to do if you don’t make it”?  And I told them what I STILL tell everyone to this day… “There IS NO backup plan! Either I’m making it, or I am dying trying!” . One time, I met Eddie Murphy at a coffee shop, and that was when I think my family finally bought in 100%, they then thought “wow he IS going to make it!” All because I had met Eddie Murphy! (chuckles). They definitely left me alone after that!


Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

Denzel Washington is my muse. There is never going to be a higher role model for me in the industry that I would model anything after more than Denzel. 


Who's your biggest fan?  

First and foremost, my family, who supported me from day one and I wouldn’t be here without them, my beautiful daughter who everything I do I do for her, and of course my incredible partner, my “ride or die” who has supported me through thick and thin.


What brings you inspiration the most?

The opportunity to affect change. I’ll see things that are happening the in the world or people that I am connected directly to, good or bad – because some of it can be fun stuff too, that I feel like I can make a difference with when it comes to creating a story or character that I get inspired to write. I’m inspired by society and people and the nature of the state of where our world is, mostly unfortunately recently there has been more bad based on some the frustrating things going on in our world today, hence “Finding Solace” will be my next project. I just completed the screenplay, and we go into production in early 2023. It’s the Motivate Pictures project I’ve been the most excited about this far.

Which actor would you like to work with?

I actually have a list, ha! Denzel Washington and Robert Di Niro are who I have modeled all of my talent after, I learned how to act because of those two cats and feel they are the best actors of all time, hands down. I would love to work with those individuals.  Other actors because they are just amazing in different areas and would be so cool to work with is Brian Cox, who is absolutely incredible, Chris Cooper who is “this guy”, there is just something about him, and Viola Davis who has the most powerful voice in cinema. Chadwick Bosman I always wanted to work with so that was a real heartbreak when he passed.  My other role model who I admire and would have loved to work with is Sidney Poitier. He was a beautiful artistic leader who paved the way for people like me. 

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

Yes, I think “The Help” is better than the book. I am a John Grisham junkie but “A Time to Kill” was better that the book as sometimes when I see the movie visually it just moves me in a certain way. And “My Sister’s Keeper” – a great book, I believe is a better movie. 



What's the movie that taught you the most?

“The Green Mile” was the first and one of the few films I have ever seen, that made me feel every emotion there is to feel in one film. I didn’t know that was possible. I watch a drama, I’m going to get anger and sadness. I watch a psychological thriller I am going to be afraid the whole time. I watch a sci-fi film and I’m going to be looking for something incredible to happen, I see a comedy I’m going to laugh. 
“The Green Mile” …. when I saw that movie in the theater I left there and literally said “it’s the best movie I have seen in my entire life” because I am a movie go-er for emotion, I want to be moved, and that movie from the beginning to the absolute end moved me in every single way I could ever possibly imagine! That taught me that it was possible to create all those emotions in one movie - as a storyteller, as a filmmaker, and even as an actor – that actors could be SO GOOD that they could take you on this journey with them. That’s something I chase on a regular basis. 

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

Yes. Yes. I’ve been in fetal position, naked on the floor, crying my eyes out asking, “what the hell am I doing?” Mainly because stuff wasn’t happening based on how hard I was working, things were not shaking out the way I wanted so I started to ask myself “why”? You ask yourself “why?” enough times you start asking yourself “why am I doing this if I got to ask myself why isn’t this working?” And I have quit, I did quit, for one moment when my marriage was on the line and I had packed everything up to leave LA and quit the business to move to . And actually, I have quit, I did quit, because I was losing my marriage and daughter and so I left LA, I packed all my stuff up and was quitting the business, moving to Wisconsin for my family. And the day that I was leaving town, I had an unfortunate phone call that made me realize I was actually quitting for no reason, and now was going to have to go ahead and figure out what the hell I was going to do after that. So, I made a plan and haven’t looked back. Other than that one moment scared I would lose my daughter, all the other times it has popped into my head “why?” I’d sit with it for ten minutes and know that quitting was never something in my wheelhouse; nothing would ever change my mind.  When it comes to the struggle of this industry – never will I quit!



 
On set what excites you the most?  

I get excited working with the entire team on set.  I thrive being with the people I want to be working with.  In the past many years, I’m responsible for the people who are on set with me. I’m producing the film, I’ve hired the talent, and I get so excited to work with them! Hands down I think filmmaking is the most collaborative job on the planet (and that’s including building spaceships and airplanes)! I get really excited to create some art with a bunch of artists and when I can create a moment that works, man o’ man! My energy goes nuts, I love to clap, laugh, and celebrate - high fiving everyone … and that’s cool to me. I don’t get tired on set if it’s good stuff that’s happening with the right people

And what scares you the most?

That I don’t know what the hell I am doing.



What's your next project?

“Finding Solace”. It’s a psychological thriller I wrote inspired by two of my favorite movies “Se7en” and “The Usual Suspects” that I will direct, produce and play one of the supporting characters in. Because of where I see our country right now, I also added some social commentary that I thought was necessary to speak on.  It will be an interesting, important and entertaining film that will be what I believe is Motivate Pictures’ most impactful project to date.  


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

Sylvester Stallone. He is another role model who was an actor turned writer and director. I was inspired by him when I think of the first major film I wrote that I was very proud of - “Founding Father”.  I could have potentially sold this script to some folks in LA but not have been a part of it and that wasn[‘t an option.  I go back to Sylvester and his story of how he wrote “Rocky” and how they wanted all these other actors like Ryan O’Neal and how he wouldn’t sell it unless he was the one who played the main character. Sylvester believed in his project and in himself enough that he was willing to hang on to it and to fight for it regardless of the consequences. And we all know what “Rocky” ended up being. After “Rocky” he became one of the most prolific actors, writers and director in Hollywood. And now at nearly 80, he is showing no signs of slowing down as he is starting in his first major TV vehicle, “King Of Tulsa”. 
He has had one of the most eclectic, unique, and amazing careers that mostly started because he refused to let the industry tell him what he was supposed to do. He found his own ways to get things done the way he wanted to, and then built his brand around that, and I admire the hell out of him. 


An actor is made of....

Passion.

A director is made of…

Vision.

A screenwriter is made of…

Storytelling



For you Cinema is....

Life.



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

Yes. There is an art to them that I think from the moment you start viewing it, that you have to be connected to it whether it is a comedy or drama because of that cinematic visceral feel and look. It makes you pay closer attention to detals.  It’s a stylistic art that gives the audience an immediate emotional connection to what we are viewing. 


Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Absolutely, 100%



Do you think you're gonna win it?

Yes. 

Hey, I’m Jason. I’m a writer / producer / director and the primary creative behind Razed by Rebels — a music & film project that explores themes of struggle, reflection, angst and independence. I’ve been involved in tons of media projects in my past. Everything from making educational videos & corporate films, to working on marketing campaigns, to directing narratives and playing in rock bands. This project, Razed by Rebels, fuses my passions for music, film and storytelling together.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I like a little comedy in my drama and a little drama in my comedy.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

It’s circular, but I think Life started it.

Which is the best Moment on set?

When all of the production disappears and the only thing you can see is the moment you are trying to capture.

Did anyone ever tell you weren’t good enough?

Yeah, for sure. Sometimes directly and sometimes indirectly.  It’s part of life and in some ways it’s necessary so you can grow thicker skin and learn to listen to yourself above all others. Having people in your circle that support and believe in you is also critical. So if you find yourself surrounded by people who are putting you down, maybe it’s time to re-evaluate your friends. They might not be good enough for you.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

I keep a pretty active relationship with my goals. At the beginning of every year I spend some time setting goals that will help stretch me and move my work forward. I use those goals as north star to focus my time throughout the year.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your job?

No. I think I’m still saving up for a good meltdown someday.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

I think it would only be a curse if you were talented at doing something you hated and forced to do it everyday. For example, if I were a talented accountant and forced to balance spreadsheets all day that would be a terrible curse for me, but for someone else it might be a blessing.

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

I’d like to get really good at calling “Action”.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Rainbow.

A day without a movie is…

Monday. I hate Mondays.

If someone offered you tdirect/write in a movie that you despised but that for sure will make you rich and famous… would you accept the job?

Yes, and I would make it a satire.

What’s your greatest ambition?

To see the earth from space.

What’s your biggest fear?

Clowns.  …and also what they represent — being trapped inside a facade where you are forced to smile all day while quietly dying on the inside. That’s scary!

Does music help you play/direct/write?

Yes, music motivates almost everything I do. From the soundtrack I choose for my day, to the music I listen to while I work, to the score I use for a scene. I think music and sound really set the emotional timbre for the way we experience moments in time.

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

Given my reply above, it wouldn’t be my first choice, but if I did make a silent film my message would probably be something like - Imagine what you can learn, when you are not always thinking about what you are going to say.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar…

Thank you for allowing me to accept this award on behalf of the talented team that made this possible. I am perpetually inspired by your enthusiasm, grit and general badassery. I’m glad our work has resonated enough to be recognized at this level. We’ll get back to it and see you again soon!

P.J. Piippo has worked as a screenwriter, director and production manager in several Finnish and international documentary, fiction and advertising productions since the late 1990s. In addition, he has previously worked as a radio journalist. In 2016, his prose debut book ‘Unieni Barcelona - Lyhyttä proosaa’ (Saaga-kirjat) was published. Piippo is a member of Finnish Playwrights and Screenwriters Guild.

When did you decide you wanted to be  a director/ screenplayer?

I remember this moment very clearly. This happend a sunny morning of July 1992 in Lapland, Finland. I was my grandparents’ place. Then it came: I understood what I really want to do: films. I was just 13 years old.

How did your family react?

They were a quite puzzled of my decision. Later they understood and support me when they realized that I’m for sure what I’ll want.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

I haven’t. There are some filmmakers, visual artists and authors who I like and admire, but not any special who is my role model. Muse – good question. Life itself and phenomena of it is a quite inspiring muse.

Who's your biggest fan?

There is some older ladies in Northern Finland who maybe like a bit what I’m doing. But have to say that I can’t be a sure for that either.

What brings you inspiration the most?

Strange coincidences of my life and my night dreams.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Maybe with Mr. David Lynch, who has by the way Finnish roots. I met him once in Helsinki. I love his artistical style.

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

I don’t think so. A quite good try is Aki Kaurismäki’s Hamlet adaptation (Hamlet goes business, 1987).

What's the movie that taught you the most?

Under the North Star -trilogy by Edvin Laine (Finnish/original tittle: Täällä Pohjantähden alla -trilogia).

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

Never really! In Finland film making is a marginal profession. Sometimes it feels so that some other job would have been smarter choice than this what I’m doing.

On set what excites you the most?

When I see a story come to life...

And what scares you the most?

Have to say just same than Kim: If something bad happens to anyone in the set.

What's your next project?

The Priest and His Master -movie with Kim Saarinen. A great and hilarious ”road movie” style story. Coming 2023.

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

American author and film director Paul Auster. He is brilliant!

An directo is made of....

 ...is made of own vision and belief for own doing.

 For you Cinema is....

The universe where everything is possible!

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

 Absolutely! It is no coincidence that some of the best films in the world are in black and white. By the way our next film The Priest and His Master is by chance black and white.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

No, I don’t.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

 I don’t think so.

Known throughout the 80's and 90's as a playwright, Don has made his mark as an award-winning filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter. Since 2000, he has produced, co-produced, or co-funded over thirty feature films through his production company nextPix, including the Sundance award-winning documentary TIBET IN SONG (2009), Hal Hartley's NED RIFLE, as well as the internationally acclaimed films RAILWAY CHILDREN (2016) and YOMEDDINE (2018). Films he has been affiliated with as a producer have premiered and won awards at festivals such as Sundance, Toronto, Cannes, Berlin, and others. Since 2017, his screenplays have also received recognition and awards, including at the New York Movie Awards, Worldfest Houston, ISA Fasttrack (Top 50), Filmmatic Screenplay Awards, New York Screenplay Contest, Los Angeles Film Awards, and the Festigious International Film Festival. His screenplay adaptation of Herman Melville’s novella ‘Billy Budd’ was an Award Winner at the New York Movie Awards.

For you, what is the absolute ingredient of a good screenwriter?

I believe a screenwriter needs to reflect some level of humanity in their work. That means their characters should be three-dimensional and have some sense of grounded reality. Also, I believe a good screenwriter knows how to convey what the Greeks called ‘catharsis’. That’s the emotional payoff for the audience from a film that a good screenwriter should deliver. For me, it's the emotional journey of a screenplay that's the most important.



What is your first and last film crush?

What got me interested in movies when I was young was independent films. So I would say my first film crush was the Nuart theater in Los Angeles where I would go to watch foreign films and indie films with my brothers and friends. That inspired me to want to go to film school at UCLA. My latest film crush is the streaming channel for the Criterion Collection. Many of the great art films of the past and present are on Criterion. It’s a great education in classic filmmaking.


How old you were when you decided you wanted to be a screenwriter?

I’ve always loved to write, even since I was a teenager. The first screenplay I wrote was when I was about eighteen. It was actually a pretty funny script. My Dad was my editor, and he was a very tough critic – but he did believe I was a good writer. At any rate, watching the early Woody Allen movies (like ‘Annie Hall’) really made me want to become a screenwriter because his films were always well-written and funny. Also, the film ‘The Graduate’ really inspired me. Again, a great script by Buck Henry based on the book by Charles Webb. The film starred Dustin Hoffman and was directed by Mike Nichols. Another early film I loved was ‘Harold and Maude’ by Colin Higgins.  Yet another great script – also a very funny and yet touching movie. Ruth Gordon was terrific in that film. All of these films inspired me to want to write.



What is a good film for you?

A good film to me conveys the human experience in a way that is enlightening and speaks to the human condition. I’m not generally very interested in films about superheroes or monsters or things that aren’t human. I believe people on this Earth need artists to help them understand what being a human being means, to grapple with that question. Maybe that is a little arrogant but that is the way I feel. I believe the artist has a mission to help humanize the world. We have plenty of dehumanization going around in terms of inequality, poverty, oppression, and racism. Artists, in my mind, should speak to those kinds of issues.

What do you feel when you're writing?

I love being absorbed in the creative process. When that happens, I forget myself completely. It’s as if I disappear, in a sense. I go away and something else appears: the art. 



Let’s assume you can go to the Movies with any director that you love.

What kind of movie do you choose and with who do you want to watch it with?

I would go to watch a great epic film such as ‘Lawrence of Arabia’. And I would go with Ridley Scott – who is a modern director with an understanding of what an epic is and can be. He is also a genius – so it would be interesting to hear what he has to say about ‘Lawrence of Arabia’.



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

I do believe that. I believe that our greatest limitation as people is our own limited thinking. If we open up our thinking to new realms and new possibilities, anything is possible. People – even humanity in general – are in many ways stuck in old patterns of thinking and believe there is only one way people can and should behave. But I don’t believe this at all. I believe what Audrey said – that nothing is impossible.



Can you live just a life devoted to your passion?

Making a living while living your passion is a challenge – but not impossible. You have to be persistent, a little talented, and pretty clever. 



What's more important talent or luck?

Both are important, I feel. Luck is really, I believe, good intuition. Or you could say good taste. As a producer, I’ve had some luck picking good projects that have gone on to gain recognition and awards. This is more instinct and intuition and taste than luck – although you could call it luck. Talent is important, but also subjective. People have various tastes and a talented person to one person might be mediocre to another. Also, commerciality is often translated in this country as talent – in other words, do your projects make money? If yes, you are considered talented. That said, art does not always make money. Particularly art that is groundbreaking. But in this country, the greatest sin is to lose money. This at times makes creating art problematic.

You must go to a desert island what would be the one movie you would bring with you?

‘Lawrence of Arabia’ – perhaps the greatest film of all time. Or maybe ‘The Bridge over the River Kwai’. Both directed by David Lean.



Have you ever accepted a script assignment when you didn’t like the project?

I have written screenplays on assignment where I didn’t always feel totally great about the source material that I was provided to translate into a finished script. But I like the challenge of working with something and adding my own perspective to it and hopefully creating something wonderful. That’s my goal when working on assignment for me. That’s my responsibility. To make something wonderful no matter what the circumstances. But screenwriting on assignment is collaborative, and you need to compromise. Hopefully, at the end of the process, you can still live with the final product.



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

The best compliment is when people laugh or cry when experiencing your work. As a playwright, I’ve had a few experiences like that. I might hear secondhand about people really being moved by the work and that is really gratifying. Screenwriting – unless the script makes it to production – has been a little bit of a harder path as fewer of my screenplays have made it to production than my plays. So, I may never get a full sense of how an audience would react. As with a play, when one of my screenplays is produced as a film, it is very gratifying when people are moved and express that. It makes all the effort worth it.



Are you satisfied with your career?

I’m happy that I’ve done some good work. I feel I could do a lot more. Also, I feel I could do higher-budget films successfully. Most of my projects have been lower-budget, independent films. I’d like to work at a higher budget level and be successful at that – in other words, to make films that are successful both artistically and commercially. 



Do you have a good luck charm?

My good luck charm is my wife, Diana. We’ve been married for a long time, and she is incredibly supportive. 



Which was your worst moment on set?

Having to fire an actor during production and replace them quickly. It was a nightmare but somehow, we survived.



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

If the job is well done, I feel really good. If not, I don’t feel so good and somehow wish I could re-do what was not done as well as it could have been. The lesson is to always try to do your best in the moment. Don’t let it down. Don’t feel you can fix it later. Fix it now. That is my advice.



Have you ever lied to get a job?

I’m not by nature, a liar. I have embellished, I suppose. All creatives probably embellish a little here and there to get ahead. 


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

My mother. She was the one who got me interested in movies as a kid. So, I suppose she was really my first movie crush – not going to the Nuart theater (that was later). She would take all of her kids to the theater and watch the latest big movie. She loved movies and she taught me to love them. She is the primary reason I wanted to get involved in movies in the first place. I miss her.

Kenny Metroff is the creator, writer and star of the award winning web series, It’s A Parent. He resides in Chicago where he has worked in the industry for over 15 years. Other on camera credits include, NBC’s Chicago Fire , numerous commercials, and a bevy of independent films. He has performed with Second City on cruise ships, and was a staff writer for the iO Comedy Network. He wouldn’t be able to function without the love and support of his wife and children. He enjoys a fresh Waldorf salad with chicken, and was given a World Series ring from the Chicago Cubs.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

I prefer comedy; because it is empowering, limitless, and can be healing. 

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Art imitates life. Life comes first, then art holds all sorts of fun mirrors up to it. Then life sees its reflection in those mirrors and imitates that…woah.

Which is the best Moment on set?

My favorite moments on set are when you are trying your best not to break character, but have to remain serious for the scene. The sketch, "Meet Dude" where I run into another dad, played by Terrence Carey was a good example of this. Terrence is an amazingly talented improviser; trying to get through that scene with him was such a joyous challenge. I about lost it when he said "It's a mandated-dad-date". I also love trying , through the scene work, to make the crew laugh; since my background is in live performance I enjoy the immediate response. 

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

I can't think of a specific person to throw under the bus right now. But I know there were instances during my journey where people were negative; but as I have gotten older I realize haters are gonna hate. Creataz gonna create.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

For me staying focused is easier when you can find your community. People who are also driven, and cheering for you. With It’s A Parent, I was fortunate to find people along the way who believed in the project; and provided encouragement when I needed it.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

I’ve had meltdowns being stuck in traffic on the way to gigs. And, I’ve had existential crises pining away at data-entry jobs to pay rent. But once I’m on set or stage, I feel at home and cherish it. 

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Talent is a blessing when it’s used to make a positive impact on the world. 

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

The biggest thing I’d like to improve is to continue getting more reps as an actor and a writer. And be able to work with more people, to continue to grow and learn on the job.

What's the worst critic you have received?

In the early days of MySpace, I put some comedy videos up. Then I was cyber-bullied by a random person, who said something that was very inappropriate. AND no one else commented!?! So it lived out there, which is why it sticks out in my mind so vividly.

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

Realistically, I probably would’ve gone into teaching and coached a sport. I’m a bit of a Sporty Spice. Unrealistically, I’d be a super-chill water ski instructor on a tropical island.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Periwinkle.

A day without a movie is...

Probably a Tuesday. I don’t watch a lot of movies on Tuesdays.

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?

Nah. Of course, everyone has a price. So, if it could make me rich without the fame; call my people and we might be able to work something out. The fame is the deal breaker.

What's your greatest ambition?

My greatest ambition, first, is to find a harmonious balance between being a present parent/husband and being an evolving artist. Once that’s established, then  I turn the ambitions toward growing the film/TV industry in Chicago. There’s so much talent here that they deserve more opportunities without having to move to a coast. Mainly, I miss my friends.

What's your biggest fear?

Being stuck in a cave like James Franco in 120 hours.

Does music helps you to play\write?

Yes, I enjoy music. I typically gravitate towards more melancholic music to juxtapose to the comedy I write. 

A lot of Nick Cave. 

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

The message I’d want to amplify would be the reminder that “you truly don’t know what others are going through”. And have it be original and hilarious, but with heart.

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

You mean WHEN I win an Oscar, I will say: “Thanks to my wife, my children, the academy and everyone along the way. Find your people to find your way. Ducks fly together. Let’s play two. Bear Down.” 

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Instagram:  @kennymetroff    @itsaparentshow

Jed Boeger Bernard is an American actor, originally from Gridley, California, based in Los Angeles. Bernard has appeared in dozens of films, television shows and stage productions, including “CLEMENCY”, Chinonye Chukwu’s 2019 Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning death-row drama. He also plays the Lead in the critically-acclaimed Dramatic Thriller Short Film, “DYING FOR A LIVING” (Dir. Darin Munnell , 2022). Bernard is of Italian, French, German and Swedish ancestry, and has lived in Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Zurich, Switzerland; and Guadalajara, Mexico before moving to Los Angeles. He is fluent in Spanish, Dutch, German and English.

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

You have to feel... I'm an empath and by understanding the characters I play, I can get into the correct world as authentic and truthful as possible. 

First and last cinematographic crush?

First: The Princess in The 1984 film, "The NEVER ENDING STORY".

Last: Ana de Armas as Marylin Monroe in "Blonde".

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

5 years old.... I saw The Return of the Jedi... and wanted to be up on that Big Screen next to Luke Skywalker. haha

For you a Film is...

Straight Magic. It can take you to other worlds, other lives, other ideas of thinking.... Because Film is Art, each person is affected differently by the same film.... Film is a truly unique medium.

What do you feel when you're acting?

I feel most alive.... there are so many factors into filming, either TV or Film.... I have an inner joy, and excitement that is not rivaled by anything else!

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you

love. What kind of movie do you choose and with whom are you're gonna watch it with?

I would probably watch the OG Star Wars with George Lucas.  I'd want to hear him do first-hand commentary as we watch Star Wars together. (God, that sounds slightly bizarre...lol).

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

about it?

Well, there are of course certain things that are impossible in the literal sense, but for you and your dreams, I feel you can achieve almost anything you put your mind to.

Can you live just of your passion?

No. I need structure and order in my life to help cultivate/perfect my passions.

What's more important talent or luck?

Talent. Talent opens the doors and you have to use your talent of tenacity to propel yourself forward!

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

The Big Lebowski.

Have you ever accepted a part even if you didn't like the project?

Yes.  But Work is Work and I then changed my mind-set and was very grateful of the opportunity.

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

I was very convincing, and now people are scared of me. (regarding my character, "Christo" in "Dying For A Living").

Are you satisfied about your career?

I'm happy to have worked with so many amazing people up to this point in my acting career.  Ambition propels me upward and onward. I'm always striving further, and try to never be complacent.

Do you have a good luck charm?

I have a few, and keep them closely personal.

Which is the worst moment on set ?

When they officially "wrap" you and everyone claps... Because, I love creating and I get sad once I complete projects.

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

Sad.  But also grateful as I had the chance to be part of a "Bigger Thing", that will last forever.

Have you ever lied to get a part?

No, I've always believed in karma and the last thing I'd ever want is to be called out on lying.  My reputation is everything and I pride myself on being a straight shooter.

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

My parents, because they raised me to follow my dreams!

Playwright and screenwriter, Robert Coles taught African American Literature at Hampshire College in Amherst Massachusetts. His screenplay ODE TO FREEDOM (co-written with Bartley McSwine), based on the life of the African Russian poet, Alexander Pushkin, was a finalist in the We Screenplay International Contest in 2015 and the Reel Writers Screenwriting Competition in 2014. In 2016 Coles worked in a film crew that traveled to The Russian Federation to make a documentary film on Alexander Pushkin.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

 I prefer drama but have a strong attraction to comedy. Both genres should interact with each other whenever possible. All serious or tragic stories need some elements of comedy.

 Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life? 

Both. Life imitates Art and Art imitates Life. You cannot have one without the other.

Which is the best Moment on set? 

When shooting begins. Nothing beats the thrill and excitement as cameras start rolling for the first time and optimism is at its highest. Later, the law of diminishing returns sets in with challenges and problems.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough? 

Yes, a close friend once told me I would never receive an NEH (National Endowment for the Humanities) grant I had applied for, as if to say intense competition made my chances impossible, so why even try. To this day, I ask myself should I pursue that which seems impossible or be a realist and save myself from harmful and false illusions.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

By working as long as I can. If I have a project to work on I can stay focused. It’s when I don’t have a project that I begin to drift.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job? 

Yes. I came very close once when I was a teacher coming up for tenure review and didn’t think I was going to succeed— a seven-month process. In the end I received tenure (a life-time appointment), so crisis was averted.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

A blessing. The greatest talent of them all is the ability to relate to people (and other living beings), to see reality outside of our selves.

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

I would like to improve how I use comedy in a dramatic script. Most of my work leans toward social realism, which sometimes paints a bleak picture. Serious drama also needs comedy as William Shakespeare found out.If you weren't an actor/director/screen player what would you like to be? A poet or novelist—a creative writer.

What's the worst critic (ism) you have received? 

That my written script contained too much exposition and not enough dramatic action. Ouch! Exposition slows a story down and makes it boring.

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

A poet or novelist—a creative writer.

If Cinema was a color what would it be? 

Rustic brown, the color of autumn leaves.

If Cinema was a color what would it be? 

Rustic brown, the color of autumn leaves.

A day without a movie is . . .

 a very rare day indeed.

 If someone offered you to write a movie that you

despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you

accept the job? 

The politically correct answer is to say—no I would not. The key word here is “despised.” It also means “contempt” and “disdain.” These are strong words. I don’t see how I could write any movie with such feelings.

What's your greatest ambition? 

To write a screenplay that becomes a successful movie, that is, it turns a profit and has good reviews.

What's your biggest fear?

That my current good physical health will break down or I become impaired through illness or injury.

Does music helps you to write? 

No, I need quiet in order to write.

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

Stay hopeful and positive. I would want them to leave the theater uplifted, educated, empowered, or satisfied.

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

“Thank you! Thank you everyone, thank you, etc. . . . I feel so humble, so honored. I am so excited and very happy to receive this award. But it is not mine alone. Many individuals and organizations made it possible.” (The remainder of the speech is to cite specific names with a very brief remainder of what they did or how they helped.) “Thank you to those I have not mentioned. So many of you. Once again thank you all for making this dream come true.”

Jay Dennis (born Jayce Bertrand) has been enamored with writing as a craft for as long as he could put words together. He first began experimenting with storytelling in the sixth grade, when he wrote his first rough, rough draft of a novel. In only seven years, Jay’s passion for writing has only continued to grow, finding him continuously participating in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. For the duration of his time with this event, he has won seven gold medals at the regional level, as well as a National Gold Medal, as well as the American Voices Award. Jay Dennis is currently studying Writing for Film and TV at Chapman University, where he hopes to continue to grow and evolve as a storyteller.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

Drama, but I’ll need a little bit of black and grim comedy to keep me on my feet throughout the movie. 

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Life, in my opinion, is one of the most beautifully unpredictable thing we will ever be able to perceive in our lifetimes. No two lives will ever be the same. As such, how can life imitate art, when life itself has no set precedent? I like to think that art is such a unique and beautiful thing because we constantly use moments from our lives, good or bad, to create our art. Art, true art, is vivid and individual because it is an imitation of life, quite possibly the most vivid and individual thing of all. 

Which is the best Moment on set?

In my opinion, the little moments. The quick breaks between scenes where everyone has a moment to take a collective breath, sharing in our agony during this shoot. No matter the role of the crewmember, director, cinematographer, AD, DP, makeup, everyone takes these little moments to take our quick breaths of relief. During these little moments, the entire crew is united as one exhausted team.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

It’s funny, really. I was raised in a home where it seemed that all my mom and dad ever told me was that I would be able to do anything I put my mind to, as long as I put my mind to it. But the minute I stepped out of the sanctity of my house, I was hit by the real world with the ferocity of a freight train. I’ve been doubted all my life, primarily by teachers. Due to my struggle with understanding math and science, educators constantly wrote me off as a slacker, a class clown, and just an overall bad student. It got worse when I got into high school. As my aspirations to put my writing into the world grew, I felt as if I was getting more pushback from my teachers. I was forced to have my individual writing subjected to review by my English teacher in order to submit them to the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition, something that always brought conflict due to the content of my writing not particularly meshing well with the values of my private Catholic school. My senior year English teacher said that with my style of writing, I’d be lucky to get a 4 on the AP Exam (I wound up getting a 5). My theater teacher tried to get my first one-act play produced at my high school, but the administration refused to do so purely because they did not want to set the precedent of students producing their work (that play went on to be nominated for an American Voices Award). The hardest hit to my pride, however, was when I was cut out of the school magazine by that same English teacher and that same administration after I won a National Gold Medal. Every other winner at the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition got a nod, but my name didn’t appear anywhere in the magazine.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

I tend to compartmentalize every task I have as one little goal to achieve in order to get closer to the big goal. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I just remind myself that with every little goal I finish, I’m one step closer to that big goal, and that means one less little goal I have to finish. 

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

I wouldn’t necessarily describe this as a breakdown, but I am now infamous with my friends and family for falling into what I call “writing fevers”. During a writing fever, I become a whole other person. I shut myself in my room, draw the blinds, shut off the lights, wear a blanket like a cloak, and just… write. No one is allowed to enter my room, no one is allowed to speak to me. I only appear outside my room to get food and use the bathroom. I disappear into this fever one day with nothing but a title and a rough summary, and I appear a few days later with at least forty fresh pages. 

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Blessing, by far. If you are treated any differently by the world because of your talent, that doesn’t mean the talent is the cause of your pain, it’s because of the world’s reaction to you and your talent. 

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

I’m as new to this industry as anyone can be. I feel that I can improve as a screenwriter in almost every way possible. I’m so new, how can I  not need to improve? But if I have to pick one aspect that I’d like to focus on the most, I think it would be telling stories that genuinely matter to the viewer. I want to learn new points of view so I can respond to and tell their stories just as well as I tell ones from my own point of view. 

What's the worst critic you have received?

Going back to that awful English teacher. She was the organizer of the Creative Writing Club, and because I was the only writer at my school (at least the only one dumb enough to subject myself to her club), she took it upon herself to personally critique my work. Instead of finishing the short story in one go and looking at the whole plot, she decided to stop three pages in and urged me to add a psychedelic, paranormal influence on my protagonist. This was a true crime drama…

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

I have an incredible passion for music, so if there was absolutely no way I could be involved in film whatsoever, I’d love to see where songwriting and music making would take me. 

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Pure, golden light. Almost blindingly bright. 

A day without a movie is…

A day spent missing a story, either to tell one or to witness one. 

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

As a writer, I think I may be in a unique position in this situation. Assuming that I cannot change the story in any way whatsoever (which is what I believe would make me hate the movie), I’d try to have the dialogue be tolerable at the very least. But if I can’t fix it any way possible, I’d probably just swallow my pride and take the job. Being rich and famous would give me much more independence and autonomy to create and produce scripts that I genuinely enjoy. 

What's your greatest ambition?

I want to completely shake up the image of Las Vegas, my hometown. It’s my dream to open a publishing company, a movie studio, and even possibly a theme park in and around the city. It’s a little out there, but what else are ambitions for?

What's your biggest fear?

Abstract? Loneliness, failing my loved ones, being forgotten, being powerless. Physical? Clowns, heights, the ocean. And crickets. I really hate crickets. 

Does music help you to  write?

That’s an understatement. I listen to music while I write. I listen to music while I think of writing. I think about music while I write. I tend to either reference favorite songs and artists of mine in the actual content of the script, or I title the actual project after a song that I feel fits the vibe and tone of the story. For example, my short script “Jeremy” gets its name from the song of the same title by Pearl Jam. I tend to do this as an homage and nod to the songs and artists that inspire me. 

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

I’d try to emphasize the importance of listening. Nowadays, we are all so focused on talking and being heard and having the last laugh that we rarely ever stop and listen to the world around us. Maybe if the audience is forced to listen to nothing but silence, they will reevaluate how they spend their days when they are in the real world, listening to the sounds of life.

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

When I was young, my dad would buckle me into a tandem bike, and we would ride all around our little North Las Vegas community. Well, he would ride. I would sit there and let my pedals spin while I rambled on and on about ideas and I had. Now, my mom was kicking ass at her job during the day, working her way up to an executive, so my dad watched me during the day before going to work at night. We’d spend our days riding that bike. He would take me all over our poor little town while I told my stories. Sure, it tired him to pedal what was essentially the weight of two bikes by himself, but he knew his son had a story to tell. I was in sixth grade when I wrote my first novel. It was only twenty pages, and half of it wasn’t even coherent. I gave it to my English teacher and I watched as she kept it on her shelf, and my little twenty page book began to collect dust. So I stole it from her, and I gave it to my mom instead. Sure, she had ten different projects due by the end of the week, but her son had a story to tell. All my life, I’ve wondered why I was here. I knew from a young age that you would never find me in a cubicle. You would never catch me dead in your average suit and tie. For years I questioned if the way I lived my life was giving me any worth whatsoever. I would grow out my hair and blow out my eardrums with grunge music and stick it to the man from my home that my parents worked their asses off to give me. I suffered through abuse after abuse at a Catholic school that would prefer if I never opened my mouth to question what they were telling me. But I’ll never shut my mouth. I didn’t shut my mouth on that bike, I didn’t shut my mouth in my mom’s office, I didn’t shut my mouth in that Catholic school, and I won’t shut my mouth now (I assume they’d start playing the music around here). My name is Jay Dennis, and I have a story to tell. 

Hello my name is Ryan. Im a Filipino born filmmaker and I moved here to the US in 2016 to pursue my career in filmmaking. I released my first film, Chat, in 2021 which was a semifinalist at the Rhode Island Film Festival and my second film, Watercooler, this year which was selected at a few festivals namely The Los Angeles Lift-off Film Fest, Hollywood Gold Awards, The Dark Fest, LA indies and now, the New York Movie Awards.

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

It slowly got there. When I was in my undergrad, my lit professor was discussing a literary style used in the movie the Gladiator. Curious, I watched the film and from beginning to end I could not take my eyes off the screen. The movie had a mysterious effect on me as I watched it a second time. It was only during my transition from undergrad to med school where I found myself sad over the fact that I'm not gonna get an Oscar.

How did your family react?

I expressed to them my interest in acting after I dropped out of medical school but growing up in conservative asian family, it wasn't received well.

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model? 

None in particular.

Who's your biggest fan?

I'll tell you when I have one

What brings you inspiration the most?

I have a few sources of "inspiration". I watch movies avidly which is where I get some. I also like looking at paintings, especially dynamic ones.

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

I dont really read a lot of novels, but I have watched a few movies or series unknowingly they were from a book and did the book justice.

What's the movie that taught you the most?

Black Swan was the first film where I understood the idea of a characters perspective.

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

Almost all the time. In my case, this is only my second short and I know I still have a lot to go through and things to learn. 

On set what excites you the most?

When we're ready to roll and the work begins.

And what scares you the most ?

When things go missing or figuring out that you need more footage. Finding out youre not as prepared as you thought you are.

What's your next project?

Im still at the concept process of it but it centers around a stalker that wasnt there.

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

I think you really can't steal someones career in this field because that wouldn't be your career. A career, in my perspective, is something of you that you build yourself. Sure I can draw inspiration from someone else's work, but that still  hinges on my perspective of their work hence its mine.

For you Cinema is.... 

Cinema is when movies provide timeless profound effect.

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

It depends on the story. Black and white is simply a style but whats more important is whats told and how it affects us.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Yes, as I've said earlier, but nowadays not really. Im really just happy to be able to do what I want and tell the stories I want to tell.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

It would be great if I won! Im also satisfied with the work and the project so that suffices as well.

Sheldon Woodson is a military vet who is also the writer of several published novels and screenplays now film shorts. He's also the creative mind behind AutuerPreneur Edutainment (Entertainment) a training, development, and collaborative Indie Film Production company geared towards turning the written word into visual cinema. Sheldon's main drive is to provide filmmaking opportunities to any and all artists in front and behind the camera. Working in the form of a collaborative team to put their work on the big and little screen.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama? 

If we're talking Eddie Murphy's "Trading Places" style of comedy, it would be comedy. If we're talking Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather Series" it would be drama. I would say I like a film that has an even sensible blend of Comedy, Drama, Sci-fi, and horror/suspense. One of the problems with my films are they're hard to categorize because I sometimes get lost in the blend. 

Does life imitate Art or Art imitates Life? 

Both. Art is good for opening up the imagination and infecting its viewers with good and bad possibilities. The good is what we hope for but the impressionable mind sometimes takes in the bad and mimics it. Art done well is made to influence some part of us. Art can also imitate life because life itself is art. The diversity of people, their different attitudes and temperaments, the different ways they look at situations and subjects, and so many things. I can sit and watch people and enjoy myself just as if I was watching a film. 

Which is the best moment on set? 

Seeing things flow without the constant tweaking of equipment, personnel, or performance. Things don't always go as planned but when they do, it's magic. The most important part of a production is hiring the right people to do the right things and for performers to know and feel comfortable with what they're doing and saying. 

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

Not in those exact words but yeah. They'd mostly talk about how hard it was to do this or that or how many years of experience you needed to do this or that or no one is going to pay you for this or that. I listened until I got to a point where I got tired of listening; especially after I looked at the people's lives who was giving me this information. They were mostly people who hadn't done it and didn't know how to do it or it was people who had done it, failed, and didn't learn from the failure. They quit and they wanted me to quit before I even got started. 

How can you stay focused on your goal? 

#1 Imagine the end result, the outcome. It's no guarantee you'll get there but the imagining keeps you going. #2 Do something every day towards it. I write a list of 3 to 5 things I must complete before the day is over and I work towards completing that task. #3 Put your goal in your face every day in the form of a dream board or a daily mantra. Doing this will keep you from hoping, wishing, and praying for a miracle you're not presently pursuing. It reminds me of the joke I think I heard in a sermon, A woman was praying to God every night to win the lottery. It went on for a year. One day God spoke saying "You can't win the lottery if you don't buy a ticket" meaning God is willing to help you but you're required to do your part. At least buy the ticket.  

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job? 

No. I read this book called "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff (and it's all small stuff)" and this is my way of living. I alway's believe there is something better on the other side. When things get bad in a certain situation, this more than likely my cue for it's time to leave. Change is constant. The people who don't roll with the change get rolled over. I believe that the grass is greener on the other side, especially when it's brown on this side. Knowing when it time to leave is an art, skill, strategy, and feeling. That's always been the case in my life. I don't break down... I break up... I understand that there is darkness before the dawn, knowing this and working through the darkness helped me get to the light. 

A brighter light then the one I just left. 

Talent is a blessing or a curse? 

It's only a curse if you don't use it. Chazz Palminteri said in a Bronx Tale "The saddest thing in life is wasted talent and the choices that you make will shape your life forever." Talent is a blessing! It's a child wanting to be born, it wants to be nurtured, and it wants to grow. It can only do that if you use it. 

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

I see myself as a writer/director more than an actor. As a writer, I'd like to improve my ability to get in the headspace of my characters. I'd like to know them more and give them a better fleshed-out life on the screen, but I also love that a skilled actor can read it and make it their own without my strict adherence to who they are. As a director, I would like to have a better sense of the various cinematic ways of creating a scene in my head that can be translated to the screen. Sometimes my vision is bigger than my ability, so now I'm working on an ability that will match my vision which will probably never come. Once I reach one level I have to reach the next. 

What's the worst criticism you have received?

About 10 years or more I wrote and self-published a book called "Destination (Sowing and Reaping)" the overall praise for the book was great. I talked to hundreds of people who loved it. They'd say it changed their lives. One person out of all these people told me they got the book. I asked this person what they thought about it and they said "it was incomprehensible, there were too many characters to follow, and it jumped around too much." This one person's negative comments out of hundreds of praise left me feeling not so good. It stayed on my mind for years. It even affected the writing of my second book which didn't do as well as the first. I decided then, some people are going to like it, some won't, next. 

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

A stock market investor on the level of a Warren Buffett. I've dipped and drived in and out of the market and read everything I can put my hands on concerning stock market investing. This is the kind of business where you have to know what you're doing by constantly studying the market, the Buffett Way, and it takes a lot of time. It would more then likely leave me no time for anything else. 

If Cinema was a color what would it be? 

Purple, which is the combination of blue and red, which is dreams and reality. Cinema is both of these things and much much more. You have to see it to be it. Seeing it starts as a dream you'd like to see become a reality. Doing the work is the mixing of the two colors to create another color, the royal color of purple. The thing you've been working on bringing to life. 

A day without a movie is... 

Simply a day with a movie. A movie developing in your mind. Something new, fresh, and real only a day of silence can render. 

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?

 Of course because it doesn't have to stop there. Money is a tool to use for your own creative ideas, it's also freedom. The fame gets your picture seen and it also bring the biggest and best group of people to your projects. People work jobs they hate because the money's good, everyday. Some people leverage that money to buy or build another opportunity that'll free them from doing what they don't want to do. As long as you’re not going against your morals or hurting anyone by doing this film, you despise. Go for it and think about the end goal.  

What's your greatest ambition? 

Helping to put people in the place they want to be physically, mentally, and/or spiritually. I'd like my films to be a stepping stone to something they'd like for themselves in all realms of life. I'd like for my life and work to be a motivational factor in someone turning from something unpleasent to something pleasent and beyond. I'd like my films to create a synergy that moves things positively forward  

What's your biggest fear?

I refuse to die and unlive my dreams. That's my fear, though it's not something I dwell on. I live inside my fear by taking action against it. "Do what you fear and fear disappears." I use to be afraid to speak in public, so I joined Toastmaster and won every speaking competition I entered and quit before getting my pin because the fear of speaking in front of a crowd was gone. I didn't need the pin. I wrote for a good five to 10 years before publishing anything because of fear. I fought through it and published the 1st thing I have ever wrote and it was successful. Fear is a friend you have to prove wrong unless he or she is telling you not to put your hand in the fire because you'll burn it. In this case fear is speaking some facts you might want to listen too but never lsten to it concerning your talent and/or harmless desires. 

Does music help you to play/direct, write? 

In some cases yes but I love a quiet place more than anything. I use music when I'm writing a scene that needs some kind of inspiration added to it. I'd play a love song if I'm planning a love scene. To stay in the mood of what I'm writing or I'd play some gangster rap if the scene required that kind of mood. Music helps but once I'm tuned in to something. I need silence. That's a beautiful sound uncomparable to anything. 

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

I made a silent short called "Taken Over" I plan to make into a feature. The theme was trying to convey, that everyone has this higher and lower self in them. 99% of people allow the higher self to lie dormant until death, when it leaves their body right before their passing to show them what they could have become, if they'd just tapped into it and used it to be and do more. They know it's there because it raised it's head a couple of time during a race, a fight, or a time when they let go and let god, the god within takes over. Because this action is not a common action it's forgotten and drowned out by lower self action. The kind of action that makes them and those around them comfortable. The kind of comfort that leads to meeting their higher self the day before they pass on into the other world with regrets. I wish I would have's that no one want to hear.  

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

I saw this day in my mind, I felt it in my spirit, and now it's here. I'd lke to thank my family, friends, past winners and competitors of this awards ceremony. Seeing you work and fight to be here made me work and fight to be here and I am grateful!! 

Francis Han is an international filmmaker who graduated from Ringling College of Art & Design in 2022. After he shot his first silent short film Broken Again during his high school period, he decided to enter the world of movies. His latest short film 503 was a bold experiment. In the 503 you will notice some classic elements like endless hallways, entrapment, and doppelganger shadows, which are expressed by a non-traditional philosophy of cinematography and performance. In addition, Francis made a great example of integrating film, animation, and video games.

Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?

Drama is reality. It delivers the complex relationship between people and demonstrates the human’s perception of or responsiveness toward something. That’s why drama films are awarded more than other genres.

Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?

Art imitates life more than life imitates art, because art is a certain form which expresses our energy.

Which is the best Moment on set?

When I say first “Action!” on shooting Day 1, from that moment, I realize that my project is on track, and I must be ready to meet the unknown.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

When I screened the 1st Cut of 503 to my crew member, the feedback was “Boring and Disappointed.” The negative feedback pushed me to try more possibilities. If you've seen 503, you can never imagine how bad the 1st cut was.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Stop overthinking and start TO DO.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

When I was approaching the deadline, but still had massive jobs need be done.

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Both, depending on the attitude. The greater the talent, the greater the pressure.

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

I’d like to improve my communication skill. Although I used to work independently, I know how beneficial it can be to discuss with peers. I’ve been trying to socialize with people to get to know their opinions.

What's the worst critic you have received?

(Same answer as "Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?”)

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

I’d like to be an editor. I am immensely enjoying the process of combining raw footage into a complete movie.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

It’s hard to say what color it would be. Cinema is colorful. It delivers different kinds of emotions to different audiences, and that’s why people love movies.

A day without a movie is...

A day without sunlight

 If someone offered you to direct a movie that you despise

 but that for sure will make you rich and famous... would you accept the job?

This is a tricky question. If I gain more opportunities to achieve my artistic ambition after becoming rich and famous, my answer is Yes, without hesitation.

What's your greatest ambition?

For now, my goal is to direct my own feature film.

 What's your biggest fear?

 Deadline!!!!!

Does music helps you to direct?

Absolutely! Music always be part of the movie. When I feel that a scene is difficult to describe, I will play a piece of music and imagine that it is score in my movie.

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

I will highlight the Big Boss on the frame.

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

 I am not ready for this. If it happens ask me again, and I will let you know ;)

Alex Mahutte is a filmmaker based in Montreal, Canada. He is currently entering his 4th year in the film studies department at Concordia University. His films, in particular Building a Nest and Crying, have won awards at festivals all over the world.

When did you decide you wanted to be a Filmmaker?

I decided this after watching James Cameron’s Titanic. I love the size of that production, his films are just very imaginative. I especially love the over the top ways that some of the extra characters die in that film, they are just so entertaining. 

How did your family react?

They have always been supportive of the idea that one should follow their dreams, and I love them for that. 

Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?

I definitely have a few role models. I respect anyone who just wants to tell a story because it is their passion. This is regardless of quality. I love the films of Hayao Miyazaki for example. Like Cameron, he places emphasis on creativity and imagination above all else (in fact, Cameron has even cited him as a source of inspiration). Moreover, Miyazaki’s studio, Studio Ghibli, is known to place all of their focus on the auality of their films. They are not known for making financial choices in their characters. I respect anyone who will put the quality of their work over greed.

Who's your biggest fan?

My biggest fans are my family of course. They have always been there for me. 

What brings you inspiration the most?

I really get inspired by works that break conventions in a way that helps benefit the film. For example, I was amazed at how Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame and Spider-Man: No Way Home managed to mix in a number of characters that would normally be way too much for a movie (as they would usually get too little screen time to make the audience care about them). Those films solved that dilemma by splitting them into groups, which allows them to interact with each other and get more screen time. 

 Which actor or director would you like to work with?

I would like to work with anyone who is kind and has a good reputation. If there is anyone  I can name, I think it would be someone by the likes of Tom Hanks or Steven Spielberg. Not only do both men have great reputations, they also seem like very nice people. 

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

I think the Lord of the Rings trilogy is better than the book because it cuts out many unnecessary plot points and characters.

 What's the movie that taught you the most?

I do not know about that. 

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

Nope. I have never had that desire. 

On set what excites you the most?

The filming, because it is where you get to see your vision come to life.

And what scares you the most?

Making a mistake that ruins my career. This could be because I picked a project based on an idea that doesn’t work (ie, Tom Hooper deciding to adapt the musical Cats into a film)  or simply because I make a bad choice that ruins the project in the long run. 

What's your next project?

I think it will either be a film inspired by Michelangelo Antonioni’s Blow-Up. 

This one will be a still photograph of a sequence which will possibly lead to a murder. I don’t want to go into too much detail on that one at the moment. The next film may also be a project I call The Card Castle, whichwill be a film about a massive card castle getting destroyed. I intend to make that to practice set design. 

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

I would never steal the career of any artist because that is not being myself. I would never be proud of myself if I steal the success of someone else, because it is someone else that got that. It is not something that was earned by me through my own hard work.

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

Anything they want. 

For you Cinema is....

A great way to express yourself.

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

Absolutely. I think one of the most powerful black and white films is Psycho. It is a great subversion of horror expectations for that era. Horror films of the 40’s and 50’s usually had someone fight some sort of supernatural monster. That could not happen in real life. However, in this case, the villain was a murderer, who could very well exist in real life. Not only that, (and spoiler alert here) Norman Bates does not look very monster-like. He looks like a handsome, perhaps kind and sympathetic young man who obsessively cares about his mother. However, he turns out to be a serial killer. This is a great example of how appearances can be deceiving. Moreover, one of my other favorite black and white films is Akira Kurosawa’s Rashomon. The basic plot of that one is that there is a woman who is raped and we listen to the testimony of various suspects in order to figure out who did it. However, all of the suspects have a reason why they should not be trusted. In the end, (spoiler alert again) we never know what truly happened. All of the suspects could have been telling the truth. The film plays on who the audience would trust and critiques trusting someone based on their appearances. You don’t need to have a film be in colour to get that critique out.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Yes, that would be the pinnacle of any filmmaker’s career. 

Do you think you're gonna win it?

I sure hope so. 

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 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. 

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!!!!!!!

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 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 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 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 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).