Meet Panta Mosleh | Director | Writer | Producer

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

Hi Panta, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
You know, the decision to start my own business in the creative world wasn’t just a spur-of-the-moment thing. It came from a mix of experiences and passions. Growing up in a diverse background and seeing the lack of representation in storytelling really hit home for me. I wanted to bring more voices to the table, especially from minority groups, and show the world the joy and beauty in their stories.

I’ve always been passionate about telling these stories authentically, and that’s something I felt I could best do by having my own creative space. It’s not just about making films or shows; it’s about creating a brand that stands for something meaningful, something that reflects my values and what I believe the industry needs more of.

Starting my own production company wasn’t just about being my own boss (although that’s a nice perk!). It was about having the freedom to tell stories the way they deserve to be told, without any compromises. And of course, having a strong network of collaborators and mentors who share the same vision has been incredibly rewarding and motivating along the way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m thrilled to share more about my art and journey in the entertainment industry. What sets me apart is my passion for joyful representations of minority groups, stemming from my personal experiences and background. I strive to tell stories that resonate authentically and bring diverse perspectives to the forefront.

One aspect I’m proud of is my dedication to continuous learning and growth. I started as a camera assistant, gaining invaluable insights into the technical aspects of filmmaking. From there, I transitioned to the production office, working as a coordinator, and later as a production manager for documentary series. I even did a season of a TV series as a post-production coordinator. These experiences allowed me to understand different facets of the filmmaking process and how each role contributes to the larger picture.

I further honed my skills by producing indie films, delving into the creative and logistical aspects of storytelling. This diverse background has given me a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking machine, setting me apart from many others in the industry.

Moving forward, I transitioned into directing, combining my technical knowledge with a creative vision to bring stories to life on screen. This journey has taught me the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and staying true to my values.

The industry is slowly opening up to BIPOC women, making progress little by little. However, it’s still very difficult for us to have the same path as our male and white counterparts. Nevertheless, I’ve navigated these challenges and intend to continue paving my career path as a queer BIPOC female director. Getting to this point hasn’t been easy, and I’ve faced obstacles along the way, but I’ve learned to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. Building resilience, seeking mentorship, and staying true to my vision have been key in overcoming barriers.

The lessons I’ve learned are invaluable. Collaboration is essential; no one succeeds alone in this industry. Building a supportive community and fostering genuine relationships has been crucial. Additionally, staying adaptable and open to new experiences has allowed me to evolve creatively and professionally.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m dedicated to creating meaningful, impactful content that celebrates diversity and authenticity. My stories reflect my values, and I hope to inspire others, especially BIPOC women, to embrace their unique voices and stories in the film industry.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re my best friend and in LA, looking for some cool spots to check out, I’ve got a few recommendations that hopefully you’ll love.

First up, if you’re into movies and all things cinema, you’ve got to visit the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. It’s like stepping into the heart of Hollywood’s film history, with fascinating exhibits and behind-the-scenes insights.

Now, when it comes to food, LA has some incredible options. But because I am Persian first thing I will do is take you to try Shamshiri Restaurant in Westwood. The flavors are amazing, and all in all it’s a wonderful culinary journey.

If you’re in need of a caffeine fix or some quick bites, Zinc in West Hollywood is fantastic. They serve up great coffee and snacks in a cozy setting.

And speaking of coffee/tea (which ever is your jam), if you’re looking for a nice patio experience, head over to Urth Caffé in West Hollywood. It’s a favorite spot for locals, with a charming ambiance and delicious fare.

Now, if you’re up for a fun day out, head over to Santa Monica Pier. It’s got everything from amusement park rides to arcade games, plus stunning views of the ocean. It’s a classic LA experience!

For some shopping and dining vibes, I highly recommend The Grove. It’s a lively outdoor complex with great stores, restaurants, and even live entertainment sometimes. Perfect for a relaxed day of strolling around. Also I love taking meetings there because of the free 90min parking!! Just remember to validate lol

Lastly, don’t miss out on exploring the classic Hollywood Walk of Fame and checking out the TCL Chinese Theatre. It’s where Hollywood magic comes alive!

These spots capture the essence of LA’s culture, entertainment, and culinary scene. Have a blast exploring bestie! LOL

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my family and friends for their unwavering support, encouragement, and love. Their belief in me and my dreams has been a constant source of strength.

A special thanks to Tonya Williams, Safia Abdigir, and Zaarin Bushra from Reelworld for their mentorship and guidance, which have been invaluable in shaping my journey. I’ve learned so much about the business of the industry and received the help I needed to hone my skills.

I’m also grateful for the support and resources provided by organizations like the National Screen Institute (NSI), Warner Access/Bell Producing Program, and the Directors Guild, as well as the opportunities from programs such as the Groundlings School of Comedy, the SNL scholarship, and the Sundance programs.

Lastly, immense gratitude to the talented collaborators, crew members, and industry partners who have contributed immensely to the success of our projects. Your dedication, creativity, and passion have been truly inspiring. While I wish I could list everyone’s name, the list could go on, demonstrating that it takes a village to achieve anything in the film industry. No one can do it all alone, so building a community of friends and colleagues you can trust and support each other is key. Thank you to everyone mentioned and all those who have been a part of my journey. Your contributions are invaluable and deserve recognition in my story!

Website: https://pkstudioproductions.com/about/

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

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5625610/

Image Credits
Kharen Hill Photography for first solo photo of me that will be the top photo of the article