Meet Federica Intelisano | video and film editor, video artist and owner of a post production company

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

Hi Federica, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
In my perspective, embarking on a career as a freelance professional in the fields of cinema, TV commercials (TVC) and video art demands a unique set of skills and a willingness to embrace risks. In this dynamic industry, where creativity knows no bounds, the integration of professional and personal life becomes inevitable. As a freelancer, you are not just an individual delivering a service; you are your own business, and taking risks is an inherent part of this entrepreneurial journey. One of the key aspects of freelancing in the world of cinema, TVC, and video art is the fusion of the artist within with the professional you present to the world. Your work is not just a job; it’s an expression of your creativity and a manifestation of your artistic identity. The decisions you make in your professional life are intricately tied to the artist within you, and this interplay can lead to both challenges and opportunities.
Every choice you make is a risk in itself. Whether it’s investing time, money, or adopting new techniques that may or may not be successful, freelancers constantly find themselves at crossroads where decisions shape their trajectory. The willingness to take risks becomes paramount because it’s the catalyst for opening new doors and gaining valuable experiences. It’s about creating situations that have the potential to elevate your craft and professional standing.
The freelance journey is marked by a series of calculated gambles, and each risk taken is an investment in personal and professional growth. Embracing the unknown and venturing into uncharted territories can be daunting, but it’s in those moments of uncertainty that true innovation and creativity often thrive. Without risks, there is little room for evolution, and the freelance artist must be willing to push boundaries to discover new horizons.
Taking risks indeed blurs the line between professional and personal life, fostering growth in both directions. This interconnectedness is evident in decisions like moving from Italy to LA, where personal and professional development intertwine. Such bold moves exemplify how embracing risks can lead to holistic growth, shaping not only one’s career but also the personal journey.

This constant process of risk-taking and self-discovery ensures a dynamic, fulfilling career in the ever-evolving world of visual storytelling.

I consider myself fortunate because I not only embrace risks but also relish them. For me, the thrill of taking risks isn’t just a necessity for professional and personal growth—it’s what makes me feel truly alive. Each leap into the unknown, whether in my career or personal life, is a source of excitement and vitality, propelling me forward on a journey of continuous discovery and fulfillment.

In the grand scheme of things, as crucial as it is to set goals and make plans for the future, I am reminded that the only tangible reality is the present moment. Embracing risks, pursuing my passions, and feeling alive in the now contribute to a life well-lived. While I navigate towards my aspirations, I find solace and fulfillment in the present, recognizing that it is the foundation upon which my future is built.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I specialize in commercials, but my professional scope spans diverse areas such as fashion films, videoclips, documentaries, movies, video art, and beyond. What sets my approach apart is a deep-seated passion for experimentation and an active commitment to researching various styles and techniques drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as video games, museums, travels, food, philosophical speculation, and even observing old people enjoying coffee in a bar.
With this approach try to infuse creativity and innovation into my projects, resulting in a rich and dynamic blend of influences.

As a professional, I believe that innovation and exploration are crucial elements in the ever-evolving landscape of visual storytelling. Embracing mixed media, I strive to infuse new animation and styles into films and commercials, pushing the boundaries of conventional norms. This commitment to freshness and originality not only sets my work apart but also contributes to the dynamic evolution of the visual arts in both film and commercial domains.

Being an eclectic individual, my artistic style spans the spectrum, seamlessly transitioning from bold neon aesthetics with a dynamic pace to the atmospheric and dark ambiance of gothic settings. This versatility allows me to navigate diverse creative landscapes, bringing a unique and adaptive touch to my work. Whether it’s the vibrant energy of bold neon or the moody depth of gothic environments, I thrive on embracing and seamlessly integrating contrasting styles, trying to add richness and depth to my artistic expressions as much I can.
In my opinion no matter the style, your essence always shines through. The authenticity you bring to your craft makes your work uniquely yours, leaving a lasting impression.
I hope to do a good job in this direction.

I recently served as the VFX supervisor for the acclaimed documentary “The Crown Shyness”. The film achieved success at the Venice Film Festival, was selected for the David di Donatello in the Best Documentary Section, securing further recognition in Italy, including the prestigious Nastro D’Argento award. Overall I consistently choose to work on projects that I am proud of.
Currently, I’m serving as a VFX supervisor for a feature project, where I’m excited to introduce and explore innovative ways to evolve VFX in an artistic and creative manner.
I take immense pride and gratitude in leading Innerspace Studio, my post-production company.\
Being a co-director in a female duo for some of the most important brands and agencies worldwide with our latest project calls dirk + Diggler fills me with pride and gratitude.

The journey wasn’t easy, but when you’re determined to achieve your dreams, every day becomes an opportunity for self-improvement and progress towards your goals. Stepping out of my comfort zone consistently was essential, pushing me to acquire new skills, build trust with others, and take on responsibilities for the team. Embracing the inevitability of failure as a natural part of the process became crucial. Failure doesn’t truly exist if you persist and surround yourself with the right people—those who can teach, inspire, and radiate positive vibes.

I’ve learned numerous lessons, but the most crucial one is not to constantly push myself. It’s okay to have moments of low motivation, fatigue, and various legitimate feelings. You don’t need to be in constant motion, but rather, gently shift the energies around you, and opportunities will eventually come your way. Another important aspect is to prioritize listening over talking and to express gratitude for every achievement attained through consistently giving your best.

I dream of enhancing my post-production studio by inviting individuals from all corners of the world to find a space where collaboration is a daily joy. A place that is a safe haven, disregarding gender, race, age, and background, because connecting with diverse individuals with good hearts is the foundation for creating extraordinary things. My hope is to foster an environment where we can produce projects that resonate globally, making someone on the opposite side of the world feel heard and less alone, just as many movies have done for me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In LA, everything is engaging and cool; the city offers a diverse array of experiences, and you can literally find everything you want. LA gives back the energy you put into exploring its unique spots. One of my favorite places is Amoeba Library, where I always find interesting people to talk to. For film tourism, I recommend visiting places like the Vagabond Inn and the Coyote Ugly Saloon.

Cinema lovers shouldn’t miss the underground gems like Los Veil 3 Theater, Aero Theater, and the Cathode Cinema. If you’re into music and good vibes, Zebulon is a must-visit. For a drink or a bite, check out places like Love Cafe Calò, The Short Stop, Sassafrass, Thunderbolt, Employees Only, Bestia, Carbone, Frankie, and the amazing burrito truck near Vons in Echo Park. LA truly has something for everyone, making it an exciting and diverse destination.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The journey from growing up mostly by yourself in Sicily to traversing Milan and ultimately arriving in Los Angeles has indeed been a lengthy and arduous one. As the road ahead continues to unfold, reflecting on your accomplishments fills you with gratitude for the individuals who supported and guided you. I wholeheartedly acknowledge that reaching this point in my life wouldn’t have been possible without their unwavering support and guidance.

Béla Tarr stands as a transformative figure in my life, a catalyst that shifted my perspective on the world and redefined how I approach movies. His influence not only unearthed new layers of inspiration but also played a pivotal role in my personal and professional self-discovery.

Gratitude extends to other influential figures such as directors Valentina Bertani and Luca Finotti, along with writer Giuseppe Genna, who believed in me before others did. Their support has been instrumental in my journey, contributing significantly to the transformative experiences I’ve undergone.

Yet, it’s essential to acknowledge that my achievements wouldn’t be conceivable without the unwavering support of my closest friends and those who believed in me from the very beginning. Their encouragement, love, and valuable advice on movies, books, and podcasts have played a vital role in my personal growth, shaping me into the person and professional I am today.

Website: www.federicaintelisano.com

Instagram: federica.intelisano

Linkedin: https://it.linkedin.com/in/federica-intelisano-a0283136

Facebook: federica intelisano

Other: vimeo https://vimeo.com/federicaintelisano