We recently connected with Cal Lawanson and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Cal with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I honestly get it from my mum, and it has been shaped to what it is now from the seed she planted in me from a young age, as well as the life lessons I have come across in order to achieve my goals and dreams.
My mum is a single parent who raised three hard headed boys. There were times where she would take on jobs 4-5 hours away from home just to provide for us and to make sure we did not lack in anyway. Now as an adult, I know what she was going through but back then, she made it look so effortless. All whilst taking care of us, she was also chasing her dreams and running her business and company. She would have my brothers and I help draft up documents and sort files out for her and such. It was really a team effort.
I was close to my mum growing up. I learned how to take care of things and pay attention to detail, especially in the midst of my older brothers. Being the youngest in a Nigerian house hold, I did not get the most appealing jobs around the house, or did not get treated as fairly as you’d expect, but my mum would always instill the value of excellence and perseverance in me. These lessons and values are what have gotten me to accomplish all that I have done till this day, and continue to propel me as a creative. For that, I am forever grateful to her.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My name is Ogoluwakitan Cal Lawanson (everyone calls me Cal) born and raised in Southeast London in a Nigerian home, and I am a Director and Filmmaker.
Formerly a physical therapist, my passion for storytelling has led me to embrace the world of filmmaking and creating. I enjoy crafting films and projects that immerse audiences into the storylines. I look to paint each frame with deliberate compositions and expressive colors that creates a visual language that speaks volumes while also becoming a canvas that conveys emotion and meaning beyond words.
The best part about this is seeing your thoughts come to life right in front of you. There is nothing like it. It amazes me again and again and again. Its a bonus when the audience feels the emotions you wanted them to experience or emotions they never thought they could feel. If that is accomplished, my job is done well.
I operate through my production company “Drunken Noodles Productions” where we aim to fabricate films that bring visions to life. We work closely with artists, actors, writers, producers, and directors to curate short films, music videos and stylistic ads to showcase the depth and essence of the story or subject at hand. We eventually look to work in producing feature length films and leave an indelible mark on the art of visual storytelling.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Learning how to be your authentic self, learning how to navigate through self doubt and planning effectively. These three things gave me the best kickstart to achieving my goals and dreams.
No one is better at being you than you, and the most beautiful thing about that is everything you want will fall into place once you revel in that. We all know its easier said than done, especially in the world we live in today, but once it clicks, you wont look back. Do things that make your soul happy and watch the world around you do the same.
As humans, self doubt at some point in your life is almost inevitable, but do not let it hold you back from doing what you initially set out to do. You’d be amazed at the lessons you’ll learn and the growth you’ll come across by allowing your self to make mistakes. A quote from one of my favorite filmmakers is “having something done, is better than it being perfect” and its a quote Im going to hold on to for a while. Do not be afraid to show the world and most importantly yourself, what you are capable of.
Plan accordingly and effectively, but do not over plan. Make sure your plans have actionable steps that you can cross off. Put one foot in front of the other, and you will still finish the race.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE” by Dale Carnegie.
Truly an amazing book. Before I got into filmmaking and directing, I had always been a people person. I enjoyed talking to people, understanding them and listening to their stories. I figured I could learn a lot from people, about their successes and mistakes and all that entails. But this book really turns it up a notch, detailing ways on how to effectively work with difficult people, how to create win win situations and how to get the best out of everyone you come in contact with.
As a director, you are in charge of not only the project, but also a lot of people. It is your job to get the best out of everyone to produce a wonderful film or whatever it is that you are working on. Learning how to create win win situations from the book has honestly been one of the most valuable lessons I have learned till date. The skills of compromise as well as the skill of listening. Two very important things I believe make me a better person and filmmaker. Closing your mouth and just listening to people can go such a long way. Being slow to criticize but quick to understand can showcase your greatness. A quote from the book goes “God himself, does not propose to judge man until the end of his days, [So] Why should you and I [propose to do so]?”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Personal: cal.lndn DNP: drunkenoodless
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTIv5KyBPaEdlQAaun984nA
Image Credits
Jessica Pittman eyeamnovember
