We recently connected with Alex Correa and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alex, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
After releasing my short film “High Potency,” I felt drawn to several new avenues. Acting being one of the many art forms, especially with my recent start at a production studio. As a creative, the inevitable question that is almost always going to be asked is “When’s the next one coming out?”, accompanied by self-doubt about my ability to craft another short film. Persistence and the support of good friends encouraged me to pursue a new project.
Reaching out to fellow creatives was pivotal in overcoming my creative block. I knew I wanted to create something meaningful to both me and my community, so engaging with them was crucial. I owe a debt of gratitude to three specific individuals: Joshua Leomiti, whose home and hospitality provided the setting for our writers’ rooms and birthed my latest short film; Sergio Gonzales who inspired me to create such a film based on our upbringing in a Mexican American household wanting to pursue a creative career; and finally Moyses Escobedo, a longtime friend who ensured the film was handled with the utmost care and professionalism it deserved serving as my 1st AD.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Next month marks my two-year anniversary as a Cinematographer for Reelarc, and every day on set brings new adventures. Some days, we tackle up to four scenes, each crafted for our clients’ demo reels. These fast-paced shoots often present challenges that test my creative vision. With strict time slots—typically two hours per scene—meticulous planning is essential before actors step foot on set.
What I value most about working at Reelarc is the support we offer actors looking to enhance their brand, as well as the support that Reelarc has for independent filmmakers like myself. Thanks to resources provided by Reelarc along with another production company called @media gave me the opportunity to shoot my short film “Virtuoso” giving the film the extra level of professionalism I believe it needed.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I’m no stranger to watching YouTube tutorials, which have been invaluable in teaching me both the basics and of course more intricate techniques of filmmaking. While filmmaking is an expressive artform with no single correct method, I’ve have learned and value plenty from short tutorials that have greatly enriched my skills.
However, the most profound learning experiences come from actually shooting and creating films. Through this hands-on approach, I’ve discovered my own voice, developed a unique style, and honed my personal methods. It’s a continuous practice that I believe offers endless opportunities for growth.
In addition to YouTube and practical work experience, watching movies has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of how films should flow. Observing choices made in the editing room—whether a film feels dragged out, rushed, or perfectly paced is particularly enlightening to discover. I analyze films to grasp why they evoke certain feelings, whether through editing tempo or deliberate use of long takes that maintain focus on the entire frame.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Directing and DP’ing my short film “Virtuoso” was a pivotal learning experience for me in filmmaking. Going into the project, I often questioned if I had prepared enough, although looking back, many would argue I may have been overly prepared. While traditionally the roles of a Director and DP are divided between two individuals, I felt capable of taking on both responsibilities, even though it meant keeping my mind constantly engaged throughout the long days on set.
Having a dedicated crew whose commitment matched my own was crucial, especially since this was my first time working with such a large team. It provided me with valuable insights into the dynamics of larger film productions. Planning the shooting schedule based on lighting and set requirements taught me the importance of adaptability and effective communication, particularly in guiding actors through their performances over extended shoot days.
Communication became paramount with such a sizable crew. I owe a debt of gratitude to two key individuals who kept me grounded and expanded my understanding of operations: Alejandro Zambrano, my Key Grip, and Kyle Bross, my Gaffer. Their dedication and expertise were indispensable, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had their support throughout the project.
I am eagerly looking forward to sharing with the world the project we cooked up and dedicated so much effort and time to. “Virtuoso” will be presented soon enough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.procineum.com/alexcorrea
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_alexandrocorrea_/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@_Alexandrocorrea_
Image Credits
Katie Schwartz, Spencer Moore, Christian Del Rio
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