Meet Melodi Tuna | Assistant Director

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

Hi Melodi, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
I have had to make a lot of difficult decisions in my life but the hardest one was definitely to leave my family and friends behind at the age of 19 and move to America to pursue my dream of working in Hollywood as an assistant director.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was a very shy kid when I was growing up. I could not speak for myself at all, I could not even order food for myself at a restaurant. So when I told my family that I want to move to America from Turkey, no one thought I could do it. Living in another country and speaking another language was a dream for me. I really wanted to succeed. I wanted to prove myself that I am strong enough to do it. I had very hard times when I moved here at age of 19. I did not speak any English. The culture was very different. For me to be able to work in Hollywood today is a big success. I never gave up. No matter what I went through I was always so focused on my goals. I really want world to know that nothing is impossible. I had so many difficult times mentally and financially but I always kept going. I want everyone to believe in themselves.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love living in LA because there is a lot to discover. I would start from my favorite restaurant which is Bacari- Silverlake. It is a very Unique place. I would do a day in Malibu. There is an amazing hike called Escondido falls. Than we would have a nice cocktail at Paradise Cove beach or Malibu Cafe. I would show all the museums like The Board, Lacma, Getty. I would do a day in Laguna beach which is my favorite place on earth. LA has so many options to try new food. Korean BBQ, sushi, Italian are my favorite.

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?
Well, there was one person who was my 1st AD on the very first job I was a PA on. Even though I had no idea what I was doing, he believed in me and kept hiring me. He always supported me and he was very patient teaching. I own a huge thank you for him.

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Image Credits
Cansu Topaloglu