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APA Member Spotlight:  Matt Pearson, Chandler, AZ 

* Primary Production Role: Student 

* What made you decide to study production? 

From a young age I was obsessed with film and tv; like many others the magic of what I saw onscreen was fascinating. It wasn’t until that realization that I should follow something I loved rather than something that provided stability and comfort that I decided to pursue film & media production. I decided to take a risk and study film with the belief that with enough persistence, hard work and love, anything can happen.

* Primary production role/s you're currently interested in/pursuing:

Over the past few years, I’ve found a specific love and interest for cameras. Whether that be an assistant position or the Director of Photography. All of the capabilities and ways to tell a story through such a fascinating machine is what I’ve had the most enjoyment doing, and what I will continue to pursue.

* What are some of your favorite personal or student projects you’ve worked on?

My favorite personal projects are to document nature and capture the simple essence of life, and the ability to tell a story through new and exciting locations. Any student project I work on is always a new opportunity, whether that’s an ASU Capstone production or my friend’s passion project. Each new film set, no matter the scale, is a place for growth.

* What type of stories are you most interested in telling as a filmmaker?

I’m most excited to tell stories that reflect the human experience. Ones that feel real and intimate and leave something further to be desired. I love stories that focus on making characters feel like real living beings, and their experiences are some that we all face, but on a heightened level.

*What project are you currently working on that you’re most excited about?

I have written and am currently directing my senior capstone project at Arizona State University. Check us out at @unmappedfilm for more information.

*Who has influenced you the most as a filmmaker?

I think the most influential filmmaker, and the person I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from, is Trey Edward Shults from his amazing work in "Waves" and "Hurry Up Tomorrow." Also, Mark Bone has taught me a lot about how to be creative in an independent work environment.

*What has been the most challenging lesson you've learned while working on a film set?

I think the most important challenge I’ve learned is being okay with being the dumbest person in the room and not being afraid to fail and look like a fool. The worst thing is to pretend to know what you’re doing and make a potentially dangerous mistake.

* What do you hope to do when you graduate?

I hope to move to Los Angeles after I graduate and build connections with friends and mentors, as well as relentlessly evolving my craft. I understand that being a filmmaker is an uphill battle and I’m ready to accept any opportunity/challenge that comes my way.

* Why should people film in Arizona?

People should film in Arizona because it's a growing industry that’s often overlooked by professionals. We are a fast-growing film community from local production groups to the Arizona Office of Film & Digital Media. We have a diverse landscape with an easier permitting process and lower costs for locations. I think businesses here are often eager to support productions, which makes it a great place for filmmakers to bring their projects to life.

For more info on Matt, check out his listing in the Arizona Production Guide HERE.

APA MEMBERS! If you want to be featured in a Member Spotlight, complete the questionnaire and submit it with a headshot or BTS photo: APA Member Spotlight | Arizona Production Association