Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Malik Marcell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Malik, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My optimism is derived from my turbulent upbringing. Growing up I experience a lot of traumatic events that most people wouldn’t make it out of. Surviving such turmoil, my outlook on life is different & I’m just grateful to be alive, so I live each day to it’s fullest unapologetically.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a filmmaker based in Atlanta, originally from Philadelphia. My companies, 730 Vision for music videos and Somnium Pictures for films, reflect my passion for filmmaking since high school.
Interestingly, acting led me into film. My brother and I used to act in skits, realizing the need to film ourselves. As our acting skills grew, so did our filmmaking abilities. I was a runner-up in a statewide acting competition in GA. When college came around, film school offered more scholarships, so naturally, I chose that path.
Fast forward, my brother Ellis and I founded Somnium Pictures & 730 Vision. Somnium, meaning “to dream” in Latin, represents our dream for films. 730, meaning crazy, reflects the idea of being different in today’s world. Our companies signify “To Dream Pictures” & “A Different Vision,” with slogans like “pixelating dreams to reality.”
Since starting these ventures, I’ve filmed for major artists like J. Cole, Future, Young Thug, TI, Jacquees, and even Jay Z. I’ve worked on various projects, from theaters to major streaming services, taking on roles like grip work, camera, gaffing, and 1st assistant director.
I’m committed to making a positive impact through my lens, particularly in helping youth and my culture. Each summer, I host “Camp 729,” a free internship for aspiring young filmmakers and actors. Collaborating with Young Voices United, led by my mentor Nic Starr, we create motivational projects like #W.A.T.Ch, now available on Amazon.
Currently, I’m directing my first Love/Horror film and promoting a game show I directed, “TGFU,” set to release on Tubi this December.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The 3 qualities that were most impactful on this journey is definitely Patience, Passion, & Networking! PPN, sounds like some money is involved!
Patience is a virtue as I’m sure everyone has heard by now but with Film you can’t quit on the Dream. It’s an industry that takes a team to maneuver, & with being a part of a team you have to wait for others often, especially when it comes to green lighting a project.
Passion is important because without the drive to really be in the industry, you will easily be looked over. There are tons of upcoming film makers coming out daily. The only way to get noticed and get more jobs is to show that you really want it.
Networking is the most vital of these 3, being as you can be on a multi million dollar job from just talking to the right person. Meeting people in your industry is key because film makers hire other film makers they can relate to.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Nic Starr, my mentor would definitely be the most impactful person on my career. Without him I wouldn’t have gotten into acting, which got me into film. He also used to chase me around school trying to make me clean up my character as well. Literally forced me to be in his class so he could keep an eye on me.
In recent years as an adult, Nic has supported me throughout the journey & even invests in my projects and equipment. We work together often and sharpen each others skills. I’m actually in Phoenix with him on a film, as I answer these questions.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malikmarcell/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malikmarcell730/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malik-marcell-66440159/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/malikmarcell/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6asoYystAdjnfcXNFEXhAQ
