Emily Aguilar | Film Director

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

Hi Emily, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I face this question often with my creative projects. My projects can take years to complete; and sometimes, my mind ponders, “It would be so much easier to just give up, wouldn’t it? To just stop what I’m doing and relax…” As we know, life can get overwhelming. When this question pops up in my brain regarding projects or endeavors in life; first, I think about the reasons why I chose to create or start my endeavor in the first place. I ask myself, “Did I chose it for fun, family, money, etc.?” Second, I think about if the reasons I stated above from the first question still matter and resonate with me. Is the endeavor still ideal for the life I am living now? I try to be honest with myself on this one and dive deeply into what resonates with my current situation. And third, I think about who else is or will be inspired by my endeavor. Sometimes, it takes some reminding of why I should keep going; while other times, it takes restructuring. It’s possible to give up an endeavor when it no longer serves my overall goals, but the more important factor is to never give up on myself and my capability to succeed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art form is Directing. As a natural problem solver, I realized quickly in film school that directing was my calling. The myriad and different dynamics that come together when making films are unique each time I walk on set. Working with actors to bring out their best performance is the biggest and most rewarding experience in directing. Especially with my most recent films where I worked with young kids and teens, I got to see the development and tenacity of these young actors. It’s not easy for actors to put themselves out there while at the same time being mindful of other actors, the camera equipment, the crew. The actor truly has to trust the director and their vision, which has been such a positive experience for me thus far. This craft is something I am always challenged with but most grateful for when my work comes to full fruition on screen. In my recent projects, I’m most excited about my new movie that is on its way to completion called “Brie’s Bake Off Challenge”! This piece is a full length family comedy feature film about an aspiring teenager named, Brie Hayes, who aims to win First Place in her school’s annual Spring Bake Off Challenge. The only thing standing in her way is bully and “arch nemesis”, Vanessa Weiler, who also aims to win First Place. I knew from the moment I began development that I wanted to put together a diverse cast with fun and witty characters which the whole family can enjoy. This will be the third feature film that I have directed to date. I’m extremely excited because from pre-production to post, it truly took the hard work and love of over 150 people to bring this movie to life. My team and I are proud that we created a film that represents the modern world: one where people of different ethnicities, genders, ages and sexual orientations are more than just included, but celebrated. Over 60% of our cast and crew are female and people of color. It’s refreshing to see members both in front of the camera and off be from all different ethnicities and cultures. “Brie’s Bake Off Challenge” aims to entertain families with an authentic, charming and lively story, to educate adults on childhood experiences, to improve school scenarios and to inspire children, teens and anyone watching this film to reach for their goals and to not let fear get in the way. Naturally, each and every project has its own set of challenges; however, with the constant love of the cast, crew, and family and friends, who helped push me and my team forward, we were able to make a high quality film which contributes to the World in a positive way. “Brie’s Bake Off Challenge” will be completed soon! For more info, please check out our site at www.briesbakeoffmovie.com. In addition to “Brie’s Bake Off Challenge”, my production company, The MomentEM Productions, has a slate of films on the market and continues to strive to develop dynamic high-quality content. Stay tuned and follow me on IG: @themomentem.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a major foodie, when friends and family visit LA, I always take them to my favorite food places. But, here’s a list of places (not just food) that are near and dear to my heart with the City of Angels. 1. Santa Monica Pier & Promenade (Sunrise or Sunsets are the best! The beach is right there so you can hang out on the beach, shop and get some ice cream or snacks along the way.) 2. George’s Burgers & The Counter are my top burger choices when on the west side. (Best burgers in Santa Monica!) 3. Hollywood Sign (Cliché, but the view is #worthit!) 4. Spicy BBQ (For you Asian food lovers, this is an amazing hole in the wall restaurant not too far from the Hollywood Sign! Make sure to get the actual Spicy BBQ Beef. Seriously, so good. You can order Take out as well since it’s a small space.) 5. Escondido Falls (For you hikers out there! There’s actually a waterfall and the hike to the top is breath taking.) 6. And finally for a little dance night life fun, Ma’kai Restaurant & Lounge in Santa Monica. (This place is always full Friday and Saturday nights. You can also go to 3110, Shangri La Hotel Rooftop Bar, Bungalow- all close by with different fun vibes.) LA has so much going on in that you really can’t go wrong with food and fun things to do. Enjoy!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shout out to my mentor of over 10 years, Paul McKellips, my first acting coach. He was the first person to plant the seed in my head that I could actually be in the film industry. Prior to his mentorship, it had only been a hobby. He has been a major inspiration and motivator in my life. He was one of the driving forces who helped me believe in myself enough to move 3000+ miles away from my hometown to pursue my talent, education and career. I am forever grateful to Paul for recognizing my fears and pushing me to do the unthinkable. Thank you Paul! Forever grateful for your words of wisdom throughout the years. Paul McKellips is an amazing film producer, director, author and public speaker of over 40 years.