We had the good fortune of connecting with Fernando Perezgil and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Fernando, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
My big goal is to be remembered as more than just a filmmaker – I want to be known as a storyteller who sparked imaginations, challenged norms, and changed how we see genre movies.
Professionally, I want to create a place where new talents can grow. A place where artists can push their creativity to the limits. Just like I was inspired by those who came before me, I want to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and creators. I hope they’ll find their own unique voices and ideas.
As my journey continues, I want my work to keep inspiring people. I hope it takes sparking curiosity, wonder, and creativity, even after my time in this world is over.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey to where I am today professionally as a filmmaker has been both exhilarating and challenging. It certainly wasn’t an easy path, but it was one driven by my deep passion for the fantastical and horror genres.
I founded Newtopia Studios, an independent entertainment company specializing in film and television production and distribution, with the dream of elevating the world of fantastic and horror storytelling. From a young age, I was determined to make my mark in this genre. However, this pursuit came with its fair share of obstacles.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded, talented individuals who share your dreams and values. I had to make the difficult decision of parting ways with my first company when it became evident that not everyone shared my vision.
The founding of Newtopia Studios was a pivotal moment in my career, enabling me to continue my journey toward my dream. Over the years, I’ve directed and produced several fantastic genre short films, such as “Devil’s Reflection,” “Mateo,” and “Un tal Borges,” which have received acclaim and been selected at numerous film festivals worldwide.
My love for the horror genre and fascination with monsters have been constant sources of inspiration. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and the vital role a talented team plays in filmmaking. Each project has been an opportunity to refine my craft and approach, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement in this ever-evolving industry.
At present, I’m excitedly preparing for my directorial debut, “The Last Page,” based on a short film I wrote and directed when I was younger. I believe it possesses all the elements needed to become a compelling suspense film that I hope audiences will enjoy.
In summary, my professional journey has been characterized by passion, determination, and collaboration. Challenges were an integral part of the process, but each experience contributed to my growth as a filmmaker and the realization of my dream to excel in the fantastic and horror genres.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting California and we wanted to have an unforgettable time exploring the darker, more mysterious side of the state, here’s where I would take them:
1. The Queen Mary (Long Beach): This historic ocean liner is known for its haunted history. We’d embark on a paranormal tour to uncover its eerie secrets and maybe even experience some ghostly encounters.
2. The Stanley Hotel (Estes Park): Although it’s a bit further from California, a trip to this iconic hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining,” would be worth it for any horror enthusiast.
3. Winchester Mystery House (San Jose): This mansion is a maze of bizarre architecture, built to confuse vengeful spirits. A tour here would be a chilling experience, exploring its strange and haunted halls.
4. Joshua Tree National Park: We’d venture into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, where the otherworldly desert landscape and peculiar Joshua Trees create a surreal atmosphere. Exploring this vast wilderness after dark might just unveil some paranormal mysteries amidst the starry skies.
5. Bodie State Historic Park (Mono County): This ghost town is an ideal spot to delve into the macabre past. It’s said to be haunted, and exploring its deserted streets would be a spine-tingling adventure.
6. Griffith Observatory (Los Angeles): To balance the macabre with the mysterious, we’d visit Griffith Observatory for some stargazing. It’s not spooky, but it offers a breathtaking view of the cosmos.
7. Big Bear Lake (San Bernardino Mountains): If we crave a snowy and eerie atmosphere, a trip to Big Bear Lake during the winter would provide the perfect backdrop for some chilling tales by the fireside.
These are just a few places where I’d take my best friend to explore the darker and more enigmatic side of California and its surrounding areas. It would be a trip filled with thrills, chills, and a touch of the unknown.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Susi Cabello
Website: www.ferperezgil.com
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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/FerPerezgil/
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