Meet Devin Thomas

We were lucky to catch up with Devin Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Devin, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

Finding purpose is one of life’s most important pursuits. For some, it’s running into a fire to save lives or fighting overseas for freedom. We all have our own version of the American dream, and at its core, it’s about finding purpose and meaning unique to each of us. For me, the American dream was always to make movies. My higher calling has always been to create films—almost like a vocational calling. From as long as I can remember, the desire to make movies felt inherent, and I always knew I’d find my way into writing and directing feature films. Even in moments of self-doubt, the idea never felt impossible. There were times when the dream felt too big, but I always knew that even if I turned my back on it, it would haunt me, and I’d keep coming back to give it another swing.

For me, making movies has always been my purpose—it’s what keeps me alive and drives me every day to make the most of every moment and avoid distractions that don’t serve that purpose. It isn’t always easy. I’m human—there are days of burnout, self-doubt, and life getting in the way. But at the end of the day, if there’s a will, there’s a way. I’ve always followed my internal compass, holding onto the belief that anything is possible if you act on making your dream come true.

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?

I’ve been fortunate to watch my dream manifest into reality. As a writer-director, I get to create projects that mean a lot to me. From script to screen, the journey of crafting a feature film is always exciting. What makes it even more fun is the challenge of pulling it all off. I primarily work on low-budget films, and that’s by design. Maybe I’m a contrarian, but I enjoy the idea of making a feature with as little as possible. It’s not about sacrificing quality, but a testament to independent filmmaking. Rather than focusing on the budget, cast, or heavy VFX, I emphasize the narrative, performances, and filmmaking craft. At the heart of every movie is the human element. People are complex, and by focusing on human emotion, you create something different than what you typically see in big blockbusters or streamers.

That said, I’d love to work on something larger one day, with bigger budgets and name actors, but for now, I’m enjoying developing my own filmmaking style. The beauty of independent filmmaking is that I don’t have to worry about waiting for funding or dealing with producer oversight—I get final cut. Right now, I’m working on my second feature, Feel It All Around, which starts filming later this month. The film stars Stephen Ray Thomas and Christine VonRobarie, and follows a couple navigating the complexities of a long-distance relationship between Los Angeles and San Jose. It’s my second collaboration with them, and I’m excited to get back on set. Honestly, I’m happiest when I’m on set with a camera in hand.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Just Start—No Excuses

Don’t wait for the perfect budget, camera, or permission. If you love movies, immerse yourself in them—watch, read scripts, and study relentlessly. Rewatch your favorites and analyze why they work. Your passion will translate into your work. Don’t fear making something bad—everyone starts somewhere. The key is to keep learning and improving.
Networking is Essential

Filmmaking is a collaborative art. You have to talk to people—actors, crew, distributors, and everyone in between. The image of the reclusive, antisocial filmmaker is a myth. If you’re shy, work on breaking out of your shell. Commanding a set and being able to communicate effectively is part of the job. Many talented people fizzle out because they avoid this—don’t let that be you.
Vet Everyone You Work With

Be careful who you collaborate with. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Work on your own projects and ensure any partnership is mutually beneficial. Many productions will guilt young filmmakers into free labor that doesn’t align with their goals. If you want to write, then write. If you want to direct, then direct. Holding lights and wrapping cables won’t get you closer to your dream. And one last piece of advice—don’t trust anyone over 30.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I’m always open to collaborating with like-minded people. I write relentlessly and would love to partner with a literary agent—or even a talent agent as a director. Not only would this expand my ability to get more scripts into production and grow my name and reputation, but it would also help attract name actors, streamers, and studios. Organically opening that door through my grassroots approach would be a huge testament to independent filmmaking.

If any producers, actors, agents, or other industry professionals are interested in connecting, you can reach me at [email protected].

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Devin Thomas & Stephen Ray Thomas

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