After working on a wide range of commercials, music videos, and client-driven film projects, I wanted to create something entirely my own—both creatively and technically. I was particularly interested in exploring new visual effects techniques and seeing what could be achieved with little to no budget if everything were handled completely in-house.

Over the years, I was often told that certain ideas or visuals simply weren’t possible without significant budgets, representation, or external backing. Rather than seeing those limitations as roadblocks, I decided to remove outside control factors altogether by producing, directing, filming, and editing the project independently.

I reached out to Daniel Jones—an exceptionally talented writer, musician, and actor—to collaborate on the project. I shared a few visual effects concepts I wanted an excuse to explore and asked him to write a short screenplay. That initial five-minute script quickly evolved into a much larger undertaking: a period short film shot across multiple locations throughout Texas, featuring original music, period costuming, and a fully realized world.

While the production was ambitious and challenging, it was also extremely rewarding. Daniel’s original screenplay extends far beyond what we filmed, leaving room for future expansion into a longer film or series. I’m incredibly proud that we were able to bring this project to completion and grateful for the opportunity to share it with audiences.

The first film I vividly remember watching was The Exorcist—likely because of how profoundly it affected me at such a young age. Around the time I began developing an interest in filmmaking, the industry itself was undergoing a major shift from analog to digital. Home video cameras were becoming accessible, and independent filmmakers such as Robert Rodriguez and Kevin Smith were gaining recognition through film festivals.

I was also deeply influenced by The Matrix, which I watched countless times on VHS—especially the behind-the-scenes footage that followed the credits. That film, along with the Indiana Jones franchise, had a lasting impact on me. To this day, Indiana Jones remains one of my favorite film series, both for its sense of adventure and its craftsmanship.

I’m most inspired by independent filmmakers—particularly friends and peers in the industry—who have taken an idea and successfully brought it to life. Seeing people around you create meaningful work is incredibly motivating and reinforces the belief that dedication and persistence can turn vision into reality.

That said, I’ve also been deeply influenced by directors such as Christopher Nolan, Peter Jackson, Steven Spielberg, and Tim Burton. Each of them has a distinctive voice and an ability to blend strong storytelling with immersive worlds, which I greatly admire.

My interest in filmmaking began at a young age, starting with claymation projects and later evolving into short skits filmed with family members. I initially pursued music as a career, which led to the opportunity to create several music videos along the way.

Through that process, I realized how powerful film is as a storytelling medium—it has the unique ability to combine imagery and music, my two greatest creative passions. I was surprised and grateful when my self-taught skills began being used for professional commercial work and larger productions.

Despite those opportunities, I always felt a strong desire to create a film that was entirely my own. That long-standing goal has finally been realized with The Sanguine.

Time was by far the greatest challenge. Scouting locations, developing a workable budget, coordinating actors and volunteers, and managing costuming and makeup are always demanding for independent productions.

Without the resources to employ a full-time cast or crew, the production schedule had to be built entirely around the availability of everyone involved—including my own. Balancing filming, editing, and post-production within those constraints required careful planning and flexibility.

The most significant reality was working around the schedules of volunteers. Many of the locations we filmed at were gracious enough to offer reduced rates, provided we filmed on off-days, which required additional compromises in scheduling.

We also had to remain adaptable when unexpected issues arose—such as actors becoming ill or unavailable on scheduled shoot days. With fixed locations and limited time windows, quick problem-solving and flexibility were essential to keeping the production on track and within budget.

I believe the purpose of art is to challenge yourself and push beyond what you previously thought possible. There are countless ways to tell a story, and each director, actor, and writer will approach that process differently.

Whether a filmmaker chooses to experiment or embrace classic styles, what matters most is authenticity and satisfaction with the final result. There will always be an audience for thoughtful, well-crafted art, regardless of its form or style.

Film festivals play a critical role in the filmmaking industry. They provide exposure for creators, valuable feedback, and meaningful opportunities for networking and career growth. Many of today’s most respected directors were first discovered through festivals.

To get the most out of the experience, it’s important not only to submit your work, but also to engage fully—by attending screenings, connecting with fellow filmmakers, and learning from the diverse range of projects being showcased. We are grateful to Barcelona Indie Awards for offering the above opportunities.

In the near future, our focus is on navigating the festival circuit, marketing, and eventual distribution of The Sanguine. We would love to expand this world further, potentially developing it into a longer film or series.

Beyond that, we remain open creatively and excited to see where the journey leads. Rather than setting rigid expectations, we aim to follow the projects that inspire us most and continue telling stories that we’re passionate about.