Meet Walt Perez | Writer, Producer, Director

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

Hi Walt, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

To answer that, please allow me to look back. When I was eleven, my mom opened a mini-mart on the block of Cesar Chavez Avenue in Boyle Heights. Her purpose; to provide for her family and community. The mighty convenience store had it all – everyday items such as coffee, groceries, soft drinks, snack foods, confectionery, ice creams, lottery tickets, toiletries, newspapers, magazines and so on. It was named “Kim’s Market” after my sister Kim. My mom had worked different jobs upon arriving in this country. The store was her first business. It was also my first job as a cashier. Quick resume plug there (laughs). When it closed, I remember she was sad. The future was presenting her with another opportunity. Mom began to attend a Nursing program. She now works in that field. So I think the tenacity of taking on a daunting task, such as running a business, comes from her. The drive to provide, to challenge the status quo. The ability to create the impossible, possible. When I began my film career, there was very little room for people like me. My stint as an actor came in my twenties. My acting manager was auditioning me for ethnically ambiguous roles. I did not fuss about it. When the roles dried up, I went into the world of Television & Film production. Same story, I wasn’t allowed in certain circles or in the room where creative decisions occurred. Still not a fuss. I wrote instead. Thought about creating a company that would give folks of all walks of life the opportunity denied by those in charge. That was the inception of Verloren Productions. On March 10th, 2009 I became a founder of a production company. 

With a more open door for diverse artists to step in and share their stories. Their vision. I’m excited about what is to come and look forward to collaborating with as many artists as possible. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I consider myself fortunate to be able to do what I love. It’s been a tough, yet rewarding experience. From the early years of teaching myself and then being able to learn from others has given me the knowledge needed to demonstrate who I am as a filmmaker. With ‘Verloren’ we have developed and produced seventeen titles. Our most renowned productions include: “Here in the East” (2016) which brought us numerous honors, including awards at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival Awards, Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival and the Chicano International Film Festival for Directing and Best Film. “Into the Night” (2020) was adapted from a story by Stephen King. The film received acclaimed and various festival award nominations. In 2021, the film qualified for consideration in the 93rd Academy Awards, under the Best Live Action Short Film Category. “Norjack” (2023) will be making its debut in various festivals, including this year’s Cannes Court Métrage. At the moment, we are preparing to bring an important story to the screen. “Macho!” is a coming of age story set in the 1960’s. A story we are familiar with in some way, but with a

different voice in the helm. This film, dare I say it, will break a stigma that has plagued a community for far too long. We’re all excited to get rolling and see it come to fruition. I approach each new production as the first – with the same wonder and excitement. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. I think that’s been the fun part of it all. 

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?

There’s a lot to do in Los Angeles. From restaurants, theme parks, museums and of course the beach sites. A good time to have at every turn. 

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I owe who I am to my mom. She taught me patience and perseverance. Yet, even with all this fortitude, From her I learned to be kind, warm and understanding. Structures that have helped me create connections with all those around me. My sister’s Ivy, Kim and Donna have also taught me valuable lessons. They’re my inspiration. 

My producing partners – Ms. Melanie Tirado is a wonderful individual. Her passion, assertiveness, dedication, loyalty and heart are ever present in our work. Her willingness to learn and appreciate this art form and industry is amazing. My brother from another mother, Mr. Soren Odom. A visionary, and a true student of the craft. He breeds film and understands the “why we do this” aspect. My respect and admiration for them. 

I would also like to give a shoutout to Mr. Ralph Esparza. His love for films, energy and the way he presses on is unique. Keep the momentum going sir. 

There are several people in my life, past and present, which have inspired and encouraged me along the way. I carry them in my heart and want them to know that all my effort and work will always be dedicated to them.

Website: https://linktr.ee/VerlorenProductions

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verlorenproductions

Other: imdb.me/waltperez

Image Credits
Oliver Endahl, Daisy Escamilla, and Yana Petrova