We had the good fortune of connecting with Noa Roethlisberger and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Noa, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risks are inevitable. They arise whether you actively work against them or attempt to avoid them altogether. The only choice one has is to decide which risks they are willing to expose themselves to. Thus far, I’ve found that the risks I’ve taken have always been worth it. One risk I consistently faced, particularly in my younger years, was the decision to invest my energy into filmmaking. After school, I had the option to pursue training in video production or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, become a mail carrier. I chose the latter because I saw the most potential there to build my career as a filmmaker. I spent five years in that profession before making the transition to becoming a professional filmmaker. In hindsight, it might not have been the smartest decision, but it was the right one.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
There was a moment from my childhood that remains etched in my memory to this day. The first time I watched “Inception,” I was literally left speechless. That film made me feel like I was a part of something immense yet profoundly intimate—a feeling I had never experienced before. And the film’s ending… truly unparalleled! The process of crafting, directing, and bringing such a screenplay to life on the screen continues to inspire me.
Throughout my professional career, I continually strive to recreate such moments—moments that leave you utterly awestruck. Whether it’s in production, on set, or in post-production, I believe it’s a widespread misconception that one cannot be creative in a production setting—I argue the contrary. Identifying problems before they arise, resolving them before they take root, and communicating alternatives are all integral parts of what we do.
The flame that was ignited within me back then still burns brightly today and is the reason why I’ll never cease working on honing my skills. Every creative individual knows the doubts and fears experienced along this journey. It’s the passion, love, and trust in the people we work and live with that carry us through challenging times.
At the end of the day, I strive to evoke in others what “Inception” did to me—leaving them in awe, standing in the cinema, hands over their heads, staring at the screen in disbelief because they couldn’t comprehend what had just happened 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?
Great question! I would definitely advise him to land outside of LA and drive into the city. Once you’ve braved the traffic, there’s a magical feeling driving down mulholland drive that leads straight into the heart of Hollywood.
One of the best things about LA is undoubtedly the people you meet there. I think attending a few indie screenings by up-and-coming filmmakers would be high on the list. There are numerous groups that organize such events, like The Great Filmclub, Secret Movie Club, just to name a few.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The place where I am now is owed to every single person I’ve encountered. However, I owe a huge shoutout to my mother and father. When I received multiple rejections from film schools, my father took the time to analyze films with me, teach me the craft, and guide me step by step into this world. My mother taught me what it means to be understanding towards others and how to deal with difficult people. Between the ages of 9 and 18, she was on every set with me, cooking for the crew. Since then, I’ve never experienced such amazing crafty on a set. 😉
Website: https://thehubfeatures.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noaroe/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noa-r%C3%B6thlisberger-454541148/
Image Credits
Damian Derungs