Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Toby Kearton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Toby, 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.
I feel you must possess optimism in order to survive in the creative industry. We all possess it otherwise we wouldn’t be here. My optimism stems from my ability to maintain a clear vision for the stories or projects I undertake. When I initially conceive a story, I see it as more than just words on paper; it’s a series of vivid images waiting to be shared with an audience. That excitement alone is enough for me to be fuelled with optimism on day one. I firmly believe that each story I tell is unique, and only I can offer my distinct perspective on the characters and their journeys. Despite facing various obstacles, I hold a steadfast belief that there are individuals out there who will resonate with and respond to my vision. This conviction keeps my glass half full, motivating me to overcome challenges with resilience and determination.
My unwavering enthusiasm is grounded in my genuine love for the process of filmmaking. Embracing every aspect, from conceptualization to completion, allows me to find joy in the journey itself. This genuine passion not only fuels my creative endeavors but also serves as a constant source of optimism. The sheer pleasure I derive from every step of filmmaking instills in me the confidence that, no matter the challenges, the end result will be a labor of love that resonates with both myself, my collaborators and, hopefully, a receptive audience.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My story in relation to my work professionally, begins from a very early age. Just six years old, I remember watching behind the scene documentaries of my favourite movies on the bonus discs of the DVDs. Today these featurettes only consist of talking heads aimed to promote the film, but in the early 2000s they were immersive, three-hour explorations that allowed a glimpse of the entire filmmaking process, complete with its flaws and triumphs. I knew this is where I wanted to dedicate my life.
Writing and directing comes from a way to deef my creative imagination which is my strongest attribute as a human. My craft revolves around weaving compelling stories that transcend the screen, resonating with audiences on a profound level. All offer a unique experience (either set in the past or an alternative future) to another time and place of what we see today. What I find most exhilarating about my role is the power to have the potential to make our fellow human a better person through being exposed to something honest and truthful. My aim is for the audience member to see themselves in a character on screen (even in small doses) which allows for a perfect fusion of entertainment and personal reflection. This for me has always been the crux of my work, aiming to offer audiences to undergo and encounter that lingers beyond the cinematic experience.
In particular, my upcoming project, ‘UnPresidented,’ holds a special place in my creative journey. This will be my first feature film as a director which follows a man’s battle with himself set entirely in the most famous room in the world: The Oval Office. And in the Oval Office there are no corners to hide in!
This story delves into the emotional life of a fictional President of the United States hurting for the love of his people. Through this very unconventional relationship, my aims are to navigate the complex terrain of love while grappling with the profound responsibility of leadership, sacrifice, and the pursuit of connection. ‘UnPresidented’ serves as a vehicle to explore the human side of authority figures and, in doing so, invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships and prompt contemplation of these dynamics if they were leader of the free world.
For me, the most fulfilling aspect of being a filmmaker is the opportunity to contribute to the collective human experience by crafting stories that entertain, provoke thought, and ultimately, foster empathy. It is this pursuit of genuine connection and understanding that continues to drive my passion for storytelling in the realm of film.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey as a filmmaker so far, the first quality that stands out as particularly impactful, first and foremost is innovation. The ability to envision unique and compelling narratives, coupled with innovative approaches to storytelling, has been crucial to me. Especially in a world where ‘every story has been told’, I have found it crucial to find a way to show your story differently and give it an alternate perspective we are not used to experiencing. Innovation has enabled me to think beyond conventional narrative structures and visual styles, fostering the development of unique and memorable cinematic experiences.
Secondly, adaptability has played a significant role. The film industry is dynamic, and being able to navigate changes, whether in technology, industry trends, or unforeseen challenges on set, is key. I have come to learn that flexibility and a willingness to embrace new ideas and methodologies (without compromising creativity of course) contributes to a filmmaker’s ability to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.
Lastly, effective collaboration has been pivotal. Filmmaking is inherently collaborative, no one can make a film alone and the capacity to work harmoniously, valuing each member’s expertise, is fundamental to the success of any film. The ability to identify the best collaborators for your projects are crucial as it can significantly shape the trajectory and quality of a project. I have learnt the success of a film hinges on the cohesion and shared commitment of its collaborators, to only to enrich your vision, but enrich the creative process.
For those early in their filmmaking journey, my advice is to treat every film like it is your last, take risks, be ambitious and don’t let anyone dissuade you for going ‘the easy route’ or to ‘play it safe’. The only way to enhance creativity, is to give yourself permission to fail. It is better to have failed while taking a risk than succeeded by playing it safe. Embrace those challenges if you feel deep down it will lead to a more honest and truthful story.
And lastly, watch everything and anything you can. If you want to be a chef, you have to taste a lot of food. It’s the same with filmmaking. Immerse yourself in the work of the master directors and embark on watching films that you normally wouldn’t give a second thought about watching. Trust me you’ll find something thee that will speak to you. This way you can see what styles, moods and tones you emotionally respond to and what ones you don’t. And remind yourself: Pain is temporary, film is forever!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always actively seeking creative collaborators who not only possess technical expertise but, more importantly, bring a dynamic and innovative spirit to their craft. Whether it’s cinematographers with a distinct visual style, writers with a knack for compelling narratives, or any other creative professionals who bring passion and originality to their work, I am eager to explore collaborative opportunities.
I value and appreciate those who exhibit a genuine passion for storytelling, as this shared enthusiasm becomes the driving force behind the project. A collaborator’s ability to offer fresh perspectives and original ideas is paramount, as well as those who embrace challenges with great enthusiasm. Ultimately, I look for individuals with a commitment to excellence in what they do, a collaborative mindset, and a profound dedication to creating work that is both impactful and memorable. If you are reading this and share a passion for storytelling and creative expression, free to reach out as I believe that new collaborations are key!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tobykearton.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/to3y_kea97/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirectedByTobyKearton
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/tobykearton/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TobyKearton
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TobyKearton
- Other: https://letterboxd.com/tobykearton/
Image Credits
Robin Morgan, Horacio Martinez, Gabriele Fabbro, Aleks Chukmasov, Louis Murrall.
