Meet Nnate Kalu

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nnate Kalu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Nnate, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Being the only one in the room who looks like me has certainly presented its challenges, but it
has also been a powerful catalyst for growth and resilience. I’ve learned to navigate these
situations by embracing my unique perspective and using it as a strength rather than a
limitation.
By embracing my identity and being proud of where I come from, I can confidently share my
insights and perspectives, which often resonate with others. I focus on building genuine
connections with those around me. I am a therapist as well, so it helps me create an
environment where collaboration and understanding can flourish. I am committed to learning
and it helps me stay informed and adaptable, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to
discussions and projects.
I strive to be an advocate for diversity and inclusion within the spaces I occupy. By speaking up
and sharing my experiences, I aim to pave the way for others who may feel marginalized. This
not only empowers me but also encourages others to recognize the value of diverse
perspectives in decision-making. Keeping my goals in sight helps me remain motivated and
resilient, even in challenging situations. I focus on delivering high-quality work and maintaining a
strong work ethic, which speaks for itself and earns respect.
Ultimately, being the only one in the room has taught me to be adaptable, confident, and
proactive. I’ve learned that my voice matters, and by staying true to myself and my vision, I can
create meaningful change and inspire others along the way.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

Of course! Filmmaking is a passion of mine, and I’d love to share more about it.
In my filmmaking journey, I focus on storytelling that resonates with audiences on an emotional
level. I believe that every great film starts with a compelling story, and I strive to create
narratives that explore the complexities of the human experience. Whether it’s through drama,
thriller, or documentary, I aim to capture authentic moments that provoke thought and evoke
feelings.
I enjoy collaborating with a diverse team of creatives, including writers, cinematographers, and
actors, to bring these stories to life. Each project is a unique opportunity to experiment with
different styles and techniques, from visual aesthetics to sound design, which play a crucial role
in enhancing the storytelling.
I’m currently immersed in the world of psychological thrillers, working on three captivating
stories that delve deep into the human experience and the challenges we face.
The one film explores the journey of a woman who loses her brother and becomes increasingly
isolated, haunted by the fear of a killer. This story examines the profound fear of losing loved
ones and the struggle to find strength in solitude.
Another project follows a cancer survivor who, after losing her abilities, grapples with despair
and seeks hope through prayer. As she envisions herself in a better place, she embarks on a
transformative journey toward healing and reclaiming her promised life, all while confronting her
fear of death. Lastly, I want to mention a film that touches on the theme of identity crises,
highlighting how our sense of self is often shaped by the perceptions and actions of others.
These films are designed to resonate deeply with audiences, fostering connection and
understanding.
Through these narratives, I aim to raise awareness about the day-to-day challenges many
people endure, emphasizing that no one should face trauma alone. My work serves as an arm
of therapy, reminding viewers that they are loved, seen, and supported. And hopefully they can
identify these themes in their communities and help.
I’m excited to share that these films are set to be released later this year, and I can’t wait for
everyone to experience the powerful stories we’ve crafted. I am grateful for the support I have
received so far, and I hope these films inspire and uplift those who watch them!
I also just started a new company! NATULLY PRODUCTIONS is an independent film
productions company focusing on creating original, thought-provoking films with a strong emphasis on storytelling and artistic vision. My company is committed to bringing fresh voices to
the indie landscape through cross-cultural perspectives and diverse storytelling.
Additionally, I’m passionate about fostering a supportive community for emerging filmmakers. I
often host workshops and discussions that focus on various aspects of filmmaking, from
scriptwriting to post-production. I believe in the importance of sharing knowledge and resources
to help others find their voice in this art form.
Overall, my filmmaking approach is centered around authenticity, collaboration, and innovation.
I’m dedicated to creating films that not only entertain but also inspire and provoke meaningful
conversations. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next!

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

Reflecting on my filmmaking journey, I’d say the three most impactful qualities or skills have
been:
My first is storytelling. At the heart of every great film is a compelling story. Understanding
narrative structure, character development, and emotional arcs has been crucial. To develop
this skill, I recommend reading widely—both scripts and literature—and analyzing films to see
how they construct their narratives.
Second is the 2 Cs – collaboration and communication. Filmmaking is inherently a team effort.
Being able to communicate effectively with a diverse group of people, from crew members to
actors, is essential. To improve in this area, practice active listening and be open to feedback.
Engage in group projects, even outside of filmmaking, to learn how to work with others and
navigate different perspectives.
And lastly, but certainly not the least, technical proficiency. Understanding the technical aspects
of filmmaking, such as cinematography, editing, and sound design, has been invaluable. While
you don’t need to be an expert in every area, having a solid foundational knowledge can greatly
enhance your ability to collaborate and make informed creative decisions. Start by taking online
courses or tutorials, experimenting with equipment, and working on small projects to build your
skills.
My advice for Early Filmmakers is to start small – don’t wait for the perfect project or resources.
Begin with short films or even video essays. Each project is a learning opportunity, regardless of
its scale.
Don’t be afraid to seek feedback – share your work with peers and mentors. Constructive
criticism is vital for growth. Be open to it and use it to refine your craft. And where do you find
peers and mentors, you ask? Attend film festivals, workshops, and local meetups to connect
with other filmmakers – network is key. Building a network can lead to collaborations and
valuable learning experiences.
Never lose your curiosity. The film industry is always evolving. Stay updated on new trends,
technologies, and storytelling techniques. You must be willing to experiment and adapt.
Filmmaking can be challenging, with many ups and downs. Cultivate resilience and keep
pushing through setbacks. Every filmmaker faces obstacles, but perseverance often leads to
growth and success.
By focusing on these qualities and skills, and embracing a mindset of continuous learning,
aspiring filmmakers can lay a strong foundation for their creative journeys.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is someone who embodies a few key characteristics:

An ideal client is open to new ideas and creative approaches. They understand that
collaboration often leads to the best outcomes and are willing to explore different perspectives.
Having a clear vision of what they want to achieve is essential. Ideal clients can articulate their
goals and objectives, which helps in aligning our creative efforts effectively.
Someone who values teamwork and is eager to engage in a collaborative process. They
appreciate feedback and are willing to contribute their ideas while also being receptive to
suggestions.
An ideal client has a genuine passion for storytelling and understands the importance of
narrative in filmmaking. They are excited about the project and invested in bringing it to life.
They recognize that filmmaking is a journey that requires time and effort. Ideal clients
understand the creative process and are patient as we work together to refine and develop the
project.
The ability to adapt to changes and challenges that may arise during the filmmaking process is
crucial. Ideal clients are flexible and willing to pivot when necessary to achieve the best results.
A commitment to professionalism in communication and collaboration is important. Ideal clients
respect deadlines, are clear in their expectations, and maintain a positive working relationship.
If you resonate with these characteristics, I’d love to connect and explore how we can work
together to create something amazing!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Natully Productions

HC Productions

Poiz Production

Talia Klein

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