Meet Wael Rashad | Film Director Producer Dp

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

Hi Wael, what role has risk played in your life or career?

From a young age, my fascination with movies and art ignited a desire to unravel the mysteries behind their creation. I didn’t just want to be a spectator; I wanted to be a part of the magic, shaping stories that could captivate hearts and minds. With unwavering passion and dedication, I embarked on a journey of exploration, seeking wisdom from diverse places and people, each encounter adding vibrant hues to my creative canvas.

Risk, to me, embodies life’s most profound journeys—an intricate dance between uncertainty and opportunity, guiding my steps with humility and grace. It’s a philosophical stance—a testament to the profound belief in the power of dreams and the relentless pursuit of one’s true calling. Each risk is a testament to the faith I hold in the unseen, urging me to embrace the boundless potential of the creative process. Through risk-taking, I’ve discovered profound truths about myself and the world, unveiling layers of resilience and creativity I never knew existed.

Taking risks has played a significant role in my life and career. Initially, the decision to leave behind my guaranteed career as an engineer to pursue a career in a very competitive filmmaking field in Cairo, I had to go through a new education journey and jump into a community that I have no single personal contact with, where is the entrance?! I have no idea! I had to knock the doors, introducing myself as a little film lover seeks for an internship to interchange any experience. Then to fly to the U.S. with my family was a monumental risk, as we left behind our familiar environment, my established career and family support and ventured into the unknown in pursuit of a better academic and career paths.

Throughout my academic and professional journey, I’ve continued to embrace risk-taking as a means of growth and advancement. For instance, from Cairo’s vibrant tapestry of culture and central film industry to the pulsating heart of New York’s global film industry, I embraced the kaleidoscopic diversity of perspectives and cultures, enriching my creative palette with each encounter. And as I stood on the threshold of Los Angeles’s enchanting embrace, I vowed to infuse every project with the fervent spirit of a dreamer, weaving tales that resonated with authenticity and passion, each endeavor a testament to the transformative power of risk and the boundless potential of the human spirit. Another station, when I decided to pursue higher education despite financial constraints and societal pressures, I was taking a risk, but it was necessary to add to my experiences and improve my business skills and knowledge as a business manager and producer. It required stepping out of my comfort zone, juggling multiple jobs, and navigating unfamiliar territory.

For me, risk is not just a concept; it’s an integral part of the journey. It’s about daring to venture into the unknown, embracing uncertainty with open arms. Taking risks has been a cornerstone of my life and career, guiding me towards new horizons and pushing me beyond my comfort zone. Each risk I’ve taken has been a catalyst for growth, propelling me towards my aspirations and igniting my passion for storytelling. Without risk, there would be no progress, no innovation, no life. It’s through taking risks that I’ve discovered my true potential and unlocked doors to endless possibilities. Embracing risk has allowed me to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the film and commercials industry with humility and determination, reminding me that the greatest achievements often lie on the other side of fear.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by the magic of cinema and art, driving me to explore every facet of the filmmaking process. From editing and cinematography to directing and producing, each role has deepened my appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship behind every piece. With boundless curiosity and relentless dedication, I’ve journeyed across continents, enriching my creative vision at every turn. My art is deeply rooted in storytelling. A passion that has driven me to explore the depths of human experience through the lens of cinema. What sets me apart is my unwavering dedication to authenticity, a commitment to crafting stories that not only entertain but also resonate deeply with audiences. for example, my current film project “Echoes” which delves into the complexities of self-discovery in a world dominated by social media and unrealistic judgments, and without forgetting that movies must be the medium of joy, entertaining and dreams. I believe, that is where the magic comes from!!
Getting to where I am today has been a journey filled with challenges and obstacles. It certainly isn’t easy, but every setback and difficulty I am facing along the way is ultimately shaping me into the one I am today. Like many artists, I’ve, and still, faced my fair share of challenges and setbacks along the way, where every twist and turn presents new challenges and opportunities for growth. From my earliest days, I was captivated by the enchanting allure of cinema and artistry, igniting within me an insatiable thirst to delve deeper into the realms of storytelling. As I matured, I realized that filmmaking was not just a passion but a calling—a journey that would demand unwavering dedication, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to honing my craft. Transitioning from a wide-eyed enthusiast to a seasoned professional was no easy feat. It required a fundamental shift in perspective—a recognition that behind the glitz and glamour of the lights coming from the screen lay a world of hard work, perseverance, and unrelenting determination. Mastering the intricacies of storytelling and navigating the multifaceted landscape of the film industry demanded a willingness to embrace the unknown, confront challenges head-on, and forge my own path amidst uncertainty.

As an outsider in bustling hubs like Cairo, New York, and Los Angeles, I faced the daunting task of carving out my niche in an industry teeming with established talent and fierce competition. Each new chapter brought with it its own set of obstacles—from cultural barriers to logistical challenges—but also opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery. I quickly learned that success in filmmaking was not just about talent or luck, but about resilience, adaptability, and the ability to forge meaningful connections with fellow creatives. Even though being an outsider at first was tough, it pushed me to get better at what I do, to appreciate our differences, to understand people more, to be an excellent observer, and to be genuinely able to put myself in the other’s shoes. These experiences made me better at telling stories and gave me many stories to tell. Over the years, I’ve been involved in a diverse range of movies, Ads, music videos, fashion films and documentaries projects, finding immense fulfillment in every role I undertake. I also consider myself lucky to meet various filmmakers and artists from variable cultures and background, I have learned a lot from each one experience and still learn from each one’s different story. One significant thought I would love to share with aspiring filmmakers is rooted in passion and perseverance—remain steadfast in your dedication to your craft. Art path is only for those who are obsessed by, it’s not an easy logic path. By staying true to your vision and embracing the journey with enthusiasm, one will pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in filmmaking.

What I want the world to know about me is that I am deeply passionate about storytelling through scenes. There’s an indescribable feeling I get when I watch an actor breathe life into a seemingly dead line on a paper, transforming it into vibrant emotions that resonate with audiences. It’s this magic of transforming words into vibrant emotions that drives my dedication to creating entertaining, inspiring, and meaningful experiences for viewers. My ultimate dream is for my work to serve as a reflection of my unwavering commitment to authenticity and my profound belief in the transformative power of storytelling. With every project, I endeavor to forge connections with art lovers on a profound level, leaving an indelible mark that encourages them to pursue their own dreams and aspirations.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long adventure in Los Angeles, I’ve crafted an itinerary blending iconic sights, hidden gems, and culinary delights. We’ll kick off with breakfast at Grand Central Market, then visit The Broad Museum and enjoy lunch at Perch. After exploring Olvera Street, we’ll head to Malibu for beach time and a visit to the Getty Villa. The next day, we’ll include a Warner Bros. Studio tour, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and dinner at The Ivy. We’ll start another day with brunch at Urth Caffé before delving into artsy LACMA exhibits and a picnic at Griffith Park. Day five brings a hike at Runyon Canyon, brunch at Sqirl, and biking along Venice Beach. Culinary exploration takes over on day six with a guided food tour and perhaps a cooking class. Our final day will be about relaxation, with breakfast by the beach, a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive, and a farewell dinner reminiscing with a bird’s eye view of LA at The Roof at The West Hollywood EDITION, concluding an unforgettable LA experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m deeply indebted to the many individuals who have shaped my journey in profound ways. Foremost, My father, a true achiever, was the first to instill in me the boundless nature of dreams. the love and care of my mother, my wife and children for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout every step of the journey, the unconditional love of my siblings, Additionally. I consider myself fortunate to be part of such a caring and supportive family, the support of my uncles—who have been like father figures—and my aunts. I am grateful for each one of them, they all have provided me with strength and inspiration.

Countless others have also left their mark on my path; there are so many. I deeply believe that everyone I’ve encountered in life has somehow pushed me forward, whether through good or bad experiences, each teaching me valuable lessons and shaping who I am today.

I’m also deeply thankful for the collaborators who have shared their wisdom, expertise, and guidance with me along the way. From professors and industry professionals to fellow filmmakers and creatives, each interaction has enriched my perspective and propelled me forward.

Asking about books, I have to mention two special names to me, both are turning points in my path. During the middle school, I have been captivated by films, but I didn’t understand why certain films and filmmakers resonated with me more than others. It wasn’t until I discovered Samir Farid’s film criticism books and articles that I found clarity. Farid, through his materials, became my first film teacher, teaching me about various film genres, filmmakers, and the intricacies of European, Egyptian, American cinema, and Master filmmakers from all over the world. His writings not only deepened my understanding of film but also inspired me to pursue filmmaking career. I also learned from Farid that a robust film criticism field and talented writers are essential for fostering a vibrant film industry. Samir Farid wrote more than 60 books in around 50 years, leaving behind one of the most important film knowledge resources for cinema researchers and students in many languages.
Another pivotal moment came, during my university days, when I stumbled upon “The Screenwriter’s Problem Solver” by Syd Field in my uncle’s library. This classic book became my guide to crafting professional scripts. Field’s expertise and guidance helped me transform my scriptwriting from amateur attempts to polished pieces. Later, I discovered the Master Syd Field’s other works, learning even more about the craft of scriptwriting. I am grateful for the knowledge shared by individuals like Farid and Field, who dedicated their lives to inspiring and enlightening others on their creative journeys.

Additionally, I want to acknowledge the power of storytelling itself—great producers, directors, writers, DPs, and art critics—their stories have shaped my vision, and their books have been my first teachers in life. They ignited my imagination and fueled my passion for this art form. The way I have been influenced by their products always remind me of the profound impact that storytelling can have on individuals and communities, and I’m grateful for the endless reservoir of inspiration they provide to the whole world.

Website: https://www.waelrashad.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wael.rashad/?hl=en

Image Credits
Photo No. 1: Michael Anthony, Photo No. 2 & 5 : Chrystal Hohmann