Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Aristides Mantilla. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Aristides, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I always try to be the coworker I would love to have, so I reflect what I expect from the rest of people who work with me. My work ethic comes from my upbringing and my deep passion for storytelling. I’ve always believed that filmmaking is not just about talent—it’s about perseverance, discipline, willingness and collaborative work. I approach every project with that mindset, knowing that hard work and commitment are what bring a vision to life on screen, which is our goal.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Aristides Mantilla; I am a film producer and director passionate about telling stories that resonate on a deep emotional level with broad audiences. My work is often inspired by my roots in Mexico, particularly my love and nostalgia for my state Veracruz, which I always strive to honor in my projects. What excites me the most about filmmaking is its power to connect people; how a single story can transcend borders and cultures, leaving a lasting impact.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my career as a director and producer, bringing my personal vision to new audiences. I recently shot “In The Still Of The Night”, a deeply personal project inspired by my grandfather Ruben, whom I never met, and taking such a topic as “The Day of the Death”, one of our most important traditions as Mexicans and of course, always happy to bring these exciting projects to my hometown in Veracruz. Additionally, my twin sister Paola Mantilla and I founded our production company “CINEMAR FILMS” and this year we are producing high-quality projects and also working on the developing of new feature film scripts.
As I move forward, I aim to continue telling stories that feel authentic, cinematic, and emotionally powerful. I also look forward to collaborating with other passionate creatives and exploring opportunities that allow me to grow as a storyteller.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Problem-solver & Adaptability – Filmmaking is unpredictable, and things rarely go exactly as planned. Learning to adapt to challenges, whether on set or in the creative process, has been crucial. Those who find a way to solve any problem are always the ones who stand out.
Storytelling & Emotional Connection – At the heart of filmmaking is the ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with people. At the heart of filmmaking is the ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with people. I’ve learned that looking at real-life experiences, personal anecdotes, culture, and identity is key to creating honest and meaningful stories. Sticking to what feels true makes the work more powerful. I encourage aspiring filmmakers to embrace their own backgrounds and unique perspectives; they are their greatest assets.
Collaboration & Leadership – Film is a collective art form. Being able to communicate a vision while also valuing the contributions of others is essential. I’ve learned that the best directors and writers are great listeners. For those starting out, I recommend surrounding yourself with passionate, like-minded people and learning to build strong creative relationships.
Ultimately, success in this field comes from persistence, a passion for storytelling, and the willingness to keep learning. No matter where you start, every step forward counts.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been as a producer. I took a significant leap, stepping into larger and more ambitious projects with confidence. Trusting in the quality of my work and actively reaching out to well-established industry professionals to collaborate, a complete success.
Producing at this level has taught me how to manage complex productions, navigate high-stakes decisions, and build relationships with people I once admired from a distance. It has been both a challenge and a validation of my abilities, showing me that taking bold steps and believing in my vision can open doors I never thought possible this soon.
This growth has not only elevated my projects but also expanded my network and deepened my understanding of the industry. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries and working with incredible talents to bring meaningful stories to life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: aristides_ma
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