Meet Richard J. Bosner | Film Producer & Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard J. Bosner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Richard, what is the most important factor behind your success?
One of the most undeniable aspects about filmmaking is it requires teamwork. It’s not a singular vocation. The end result is a product of the collective, and no matter how much time passes, or how advanced technology gets, this will always be true. Very early on, I realized how important it was to bring the right people together for each project. I’m always looking for that synergy/balance when I start to build out any production. The perfect blend of talent, drive, enthusiasm, and dedication. Success is only a possibility when everyone is moving in the same direction, headed toward a united vision. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to bring together many incredible talents, resulting in films we can all be proud of.

What should our readers know about your business?
I suppose it all began with an eight-year-old Ricky Bosner daydreaming in my bedroom on Blue Creek Drive. I was “that kid” who was always putting on plays, running around with my parent’s camcorder and constantly recruiting the neighborhood kids to act in my films. In addition, if ever there was a teacher who would let me direct a short, instead of writing an essay, I joyfully chose the former.

I’ve always felt fortunate to find my passion so early in life. It made my career goals fairly straight forward, even if the path that led me there was not. I grew up in Rochester, NY, 2,607 miles from Hollywood, but I never let that deter me from learning everything I could about the craft. I took film courses at the local arts school, studied classic films and cinema text, even taught myself how to use an old 16mm Bolex.

When I was 15, I left home alone for the first time to attend the Young Filmmakers Workshop at the Visual Studies Workshops in Rockport, MA. A pivotal moment occurred for me that summer when I was chosen to direct a short film of my own. I was so excited; I could barely sleep at night. When the day came to roll camera, the instructor gave me a handheld stage microphone to record the audio. “Hm” I thought “This seems odd…”, but I didn’t know any different. I gratefully accepted the equipment provided and got to work. What a mistake! When I went to the edit bay to watch the dailies, nothing was audible. I was crushed. Devastated. Why didn’t I say something?

It was at this moment I made a promise to myself that I would learn the ins and outs of every department. If I didn’t know the answer, I would find an expert in the field that did. This approach to producing/ directing has benefited me tenfold over the years. It’s helped me understand the time and the technical requirements of every position, and appreciate each crew member’s contributions.

From the beginning, my mission for Blue Creek Pictures has been to create an inclusive environment for great storytelling. Generosity of knowledge and empowerment became the cornerstone of every production. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with many incredible talents who share these same values. We continue to develop/produce entertaining films that break through the noise and contribute to a larger world view conversation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, it goes without saying, LA is pretty much a cinephiles dream. Any film nerd who visits certainly needs to check out the variety of location and studio tours offered, plus now we have the new Academy of Motion Pictures Museum, which is quite impressive. Also, if you really want to geek out on old Hollywood, don’t forget the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. I know it sounds creepy, but it’s truly an incredible place filled with tons of history. Sidenote, Cinespia periodically holds outdoor screenings of classic films in the evenings. If you want to experience classic cinema with enthusiastic moviegoers, don’t miss it!
Another activity my friends and I really enjoy is being out in nature. When I first arrived in LA, I wasn’t sure if hiking would even be possible. Luckily, I discovered there were plenty of great trails and scenic lookouts all around LA. Now when friends come to visit, I love to go for long walks, catch up, and show them some scenic spots they might not have expected. Obviously, if you’ve never been to Runyon Canyon, Mulholland Overlook, or Eaton Canyon be sure and add those to your bucket list. In addition, there are plenty of other hidden gems if you’re willing to venture out slightly. Corral Canyon Trail, Echo Mountain, and Joshua Tree are just a few to consider.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I can confidently say my parents, Mary Catherine and Kevin Bosner, were the match that ignited my creative spark. Growing up I was always encouraged to use my imagination and explore every artistic outlet. Art, music, theater, and film shaped all aspects of my young life, and the work ethic I would need to succeed was instilled from the very beginning.

I also need to thank my west coast “film family” Debra Bassett and Jamie Murdock of Bassett Productions in northern California. When I first arrived as a film student, Debra was the one who showed me the ropes of production, organization and gave me the foundation to build a career of integrity. I am forever grateful and blessed to still have them in my life.

Finally, I want to recognize all the production crew members who have collaborated with me, time and again. (You know who you are.) When you work with a collective group of creative talents under intense, high-pressure conditions and emerge to see the light of day, you form a bond and a trust that only grows stronger over time. These experiences have burgeoned into many lifelong friendships that I hold very dear. I’m always looking for opportunities to get the “band back together” and although no situation can ever be duplicated, it means the world to have those trusted individuals by my side.

Website: www.bluecreekpictures.com

Instagram: @rickbosner

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rick.bosner