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

Hi Arman, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a filmmaker, I have always been an artist at heart—driven by the power of storytelling and the desire to create. But the journey to share my work with the world has been anything but easy. Filmmaking is a labor of love, requiring sleepless nights, immense creativity, and relentless dedication. Yet, even after pouring your heart and soul into a project, the true challenge lies in the aftermath—finding an audience, securing funding, and connecting with those who truly understand your art.

These struggles are not unique to me; they are the reality for countless filmmakers, especially emerging talents who lack the resources or connections to break through the barriers of the industry. This is where my journey to entrepreneurship began—not as a business venture, but as a mission to empower artists and amplify their voices.

Today, I stand as more than a filmmaker with a collection of award-winning short films; I am the founder and director of the Cine Choice Awards, a film festival dedicated to celebrating young and independent filmmakers. The festival was born from my deep understanding of the challenges creators face and my desire to provide a platform where their talent could shine.

At Cine Choice Awards, we focus on more than just showcasing films; we celebrate the art of storytelling in its purest form. Our festival is a global stage for independent creators, where innovation and inspiration take center stage. Through curated screenings, Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and networking events, we have built a community that fosters collaboration and fuels creativity.

But my vision didn’t stop there. Recognizing the need for a broader, more accessible platform, I launched Sceneum.com—a streaming service designed specifically for independent filmmakers. Sceneum is not just a platform; it’s a movement. It’s a place where filmmakers are celebrated, investors discover untapped talent, and audiences experience bold, original stories that redefine cinema.

Our mission is clear:

For Filmmakers: Sceneum.com is a family—a network where emerging creators find audiences, funding, and opportunities to collaborate. We don’t just stream films; we champion them.
For Investors: Sceneum is a gateway to discovering the next breakout talent. We connect investors with compelling narratives and give them the chance to be part of the next cinematic revolution.
For Audiences: Sceneum offers a treasure trove of fresh, never-before-seen films. It’s a destination for movie lovers who seek bold, original, and inspiring stories that haven’t hit the mainstream yet.
While Sceneum is still in development, I am driven by the knowledge that it will soon become a fully functional, worldwide platform. It will be a beacon of hope for creators who dare to dream and a home for stories that deserve to be told.

Starting Cine Choice Awards and Sceneum.com has been a journey fueled by passion, resilience, and the belief that art has the power to change lives. These initiatives are more than businesses—they are communities. They are platforms where talent is nurtured, voices are amplified, and the art of filmmaking is celebrated in all its glory.

My story is not just one of success; it is one of purpose. It is a reminder that with hard work, vision, and the courage to take risks, we can create spaces that inspire, connect, and transform. I hope my journey inspires others to follow their dreams and turn their challenges into opportunities that uplift and empower those around them

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Art, for me, is more than just a medium of expression—it’s a way to connect, to inspire, and to solve real-world problems. The company I now run is an extension of that philosophy, a creative endeavor born from my personal journey as a filmmaker and shaped by my commitment to empowering others in the industry.

I am not just a film director; I am the director of a film festival and the visionary behind an upcoming streaming platform, both of which are deeply intertwined. Together, these initiatives reflect my belief that art can be a powerful tool for change when combined with purpose and innovation.

What sets me and my companies apart is our ability to understand the challenges that filmmakers and artists face today. I know firsthand the struggles of trying to bring a story to life, of battling for recognition in a saturated market, and of finding the right audience for your work. These experiences have shaped my approach to leadership. By placing the resolution of these issues at the forefront of what we do, I’ve been able to create platforms that truly serve the needs of our community.

The Cine Choice Awards, for example, is more than just a film festival—it’s a space where filmmakers can shine, connect, and feel valued. It’s a place where their art is celebrated, and their stories are given the attention they deserve. Similarly, Sceneum, our soon-to-launch streaming platform, is designed to be a home for independent filmmakers, a space where their voices can be heard, and their visions can thrive.

Getting to where I am today has been far from easy. Like any journey worth taking, it has been filled with challenges. There were times when resources were scarce, and the road ahead felt uncertain. But I leaned on my passion, my community, and the belief that what I was building mattered—not just to me but to the artists and audiences we serve.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable:

Empathy is key. Understanding the struggles of others and actively seeking solutions makes all the difference.
Community matters. Success is not a solo act—it’s built on collaboration, shared vision, and the collective power of many.
Resilience pays off. The path may be difficult, but perseverance transforms obstacles into opportunities.
What I want the world to know about my story and my brand is that we are not just about business—we are about creating impact.

Cine Choice Awards and Sceneum.com are built by filmmakers, for filmmakers. They are platforms born from the challenges we’ve faced and fueled by the determination to make the industry better for everyone.

I am still very much a filmmaker at heart. I am part of this incredible community of creators who, despite the difficulties, continue to dream, to create, and to push boundaries. My work—whether as a director, a festival leader, or a streaming platform innovator—is dedicated to them.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Over the past two years, I’ve unofficially become the go-to tour guide for friends and family visiting Los Angeles. It’s been a joy to share the city’s beauty, culture, and energy with those closest to me. When someone visits, I make it my mission to show them not just the famous landmarks but also the places that have inspired and energized me as an artist and storyteller. Here’s how I’d plan an unforgettable week-long trip through LA:

Day 1: A Fresh Start
Morning: Begin the day early at Griffith Observatory. Watching the city awaken from the heights of this iconic spot is nothing short of magical. The panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign offer the perfect introduction to the city.
Afternoon: Head to Hollywood Boulevard to stroll along the Walk of Fame, marvel at the TCL Chinese Theatre, and take a few snapshots by the legendary Dolby Theatre.
Evening: End the day with dinner at Santa Monica Pier, soaking in the lively atmosphere, street performers, and the sound of waves crashing beneath the Ferris wheel.
Day 2: Malibu Magic
Morning: Drive up the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Point Dume. This breathtaking spot, with its rugged cliffs and expansive ocean views, has always been a source of inspiration and peace for me. Though recent wildfires have left their mark, Malibu’s beauty and energy remain unmatched.
Afternoon: Enjoy a beach picnic or visit Malibu Farm Café for fresh, locally-sourced food right by the water.
Evening: Take in the sunset at Zuma Beach before heading back to the city.
Day 3: The Artistic Side of LA
Morning: Explore the arts district of Downtown LA, starting with a visit to The Broad Museum or MOCA for a taste of contemporary art.
Afternoon: Wander through the bustling stalls of Grand Central Market and grab lunch from one of the many diverse food vendors.
Evening: Catch a performance or film screening at The Los Angeles Theatre or one of the city’s historic venues.
Day 4: Culture and Cuisine
Morning: Visit the stunning Getty Center, which offers world-class art, architecture, and gardens, along with breathtaking views of the city.
Afternoon: Head to Little Tokyo for authentic Japanese cuisine and unique cultural shops. Don’t miss the chance to try fresh sushi or ramen.
Evening: Experience the lively energy of Koreatown, with its amazing Korean BBQ spots and karaoke bars.
Day 5: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Spend the day hiking in Runyon Canyon or Topanga State Park for a more immersive connection with LA’s natural beauty.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in Echo Park by the lake, with the city skyline as your backdrop.
Evening: Attend an outdoor movie screening at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where films are projected under the stars.
Day 6: Beach Bliss
Morning: Spend the day in Venice Beach, soaking in the eclectic vibe, street performers, and unique shops along the boardwalk.
Afternoon: Rent a bike and ride along the coast to Marina del Rey.
Evening: Have dinner at one of the chic waterfront restaurants in Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Day 7: The Grand Finale
Morning: Explore Beverly Hills with a stroll through Rodeo Drive, followed by a visit to the serene Greystone Mansion and Park.
Afternoon: Wrap up the trip with a casual lunch at The Grove or Farmers Market, where you can shop, relax, and people-watch.
Evening: Toast to an unforgettable week with a final dinner at Perch LA, a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of the downtown skyline.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is a city of contrasts, where natural beauty meets urban vibrancy, and inspiration is around every corner. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, I’ve curated this itinerary to reflect not just the best of LA but the places that have personally shaped my creative journey. Whether it’s the calm of Malibu, the energy of Santa Monica, or the artistic flair of downtown, each stop is a testament to the city’s diverse and inspiring spirit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Who are we without the people who believe in us, who lift us up when we falter, and who stand by our side through every challenge? The truth is, none of us achieve success entirely on our own. My journey, my achievements, and everything I have built would not have been possible without the unwavering support, love, and encouragement of those closest to me.

First and foremost, my family—my wife, Ayaulym Sayat, and our children Alan and Ansel—deserve all the credit and recognition in my story. They are the foundation of my strength and the greatest motivation behind every accomplishment. My wife, Ayaulym, has been my rock, my biggest believer, and the reason I dared to follow my passion for filmmaking.

You see, filmmaking was never part of my initial plan. Like many, I chose practicality over passion and did what I thought I had to do instead of pursuing what I truly loved. But Ayaulym saw something in me that I had buried—a spark, a dream, a calling. She encouraged me to take the leap into the world of filmmaking, reminding me of the creativity and passion I had carried within me all along.

Her belief in me transformed my life. It wasn’t just her words of encouragement; it was her actions that spoke volumes. From enduring sleepless nights with me to taking care of our children while I spent countless hours on set, she has been the silent force behind my success. Every time I faced doubt or fear, her steadfast support reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

My children, too, are a constant source of inspiration. They remind me of the importance of dreaming big and working hard. Every achievement I strive for is not just for me but for them—to show them that anything is possible when you have passion, perseverance, and the right people by your side.

Beyond my family, I owe gratitude to the mentors, collaborators, and fellow filmmakers who have shaped my path. The filmmaking community has taught me lessons, shared opportunities, and fueled my creativity. Each person I’ve worked with, from actors to crew members, has left a mark on my journey, reminding me that art is a collective effort, born from shared vision and teamwork.

Website: http://sceneum.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmsbyinsomniac/

Other: http://cineloom.net

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.