We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Mosallam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
I think the film & tv industry (and Hollywood in general) sort of feels like it lives in a bubble, and in a lot of ways, it does. But, anyone I’ve met who has had a modicum of success has done so because of years of hard work and “pounding the pavement,” so to speak. People don’t wake up and sell a tv show. They put in their dues. Folks don’t generally wake up with the funding to make their indie film. These things take a lot of time, a lot of patience, and often a good amount of failure and rejection. Being in this industry is hard. Really hard. But, the reward is worth it in the end.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I majored in musical theatre (Go Blue!). I’m also devoutly Arab and Muslim. Generally, those two things lived in very silo’ed compartments in my life. Until 9/11. After that tragic day, my identities couldn’t remain separate. They had to merge, because I really wanted to reclaim my own narrative (as a Muslim) and little did I know, I had been training my whole life and now possessed the skills to do so. It wasn’t easy, but I found myself loving telling the stories of me and my people – through docu-series, feature films, short films, and even musicals (who knew!). Incorporating various parts of myself in my art has been ultra healing, illuminating, vulnerable, and wholly gratifying. I got to where I am today because of my parents, grandmother, teachers, mentors, friends, and bosses – all of whom helped get me to the next level – one that I couldn’t even see for myself. If you’d like to learn more about my work, please visit www.watchmmp.com.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
the morning would start with an iced almond milk latte from Tartine on Sunset. We’d walk with the latte around the Silverlake Reservoir. then off to brunch at Clark Street Deli (do not miss out on the Olive Focaccia!). A stroll down Sunset – visiting Yolk, Happy Socks, or even over to Clover – for some shopping. Then heading over to Pan Pacific Park with a blanket and a book (or board game). And once dinner hit, Sunnin in Westwood is hands down the best Lebanese food in LA. Depending on the time of year, The Huntington Gardens are not to be missed.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Jason Hariton is a studio exec and producer who has stewarded my career in so many ways. He’s an incredible role model, mentor, and even better friend.

Website: www.watchmmp.com

Instagram: @watchmmp

Twitter: @watchmmp

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/watchmmp

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG1iiGdoDlm5ge0l6xQIINw

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