Meet Mariya Pyter

We recently connected with Mariya Pyter and have shared our conversation below.

Mariya, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
On my journey as a filmmaker, I have encountered numerous challenges, with rejection being a common hurdle. I believe it’s a natural aspect of the industry, and the crucial factor lies in recognizing that one’s worth is not defined by these rejections; rather, it is the loss of the other party. Although it may initially feel like a setback, I view rejection not as a pitfall but as a redirection towards a path that is meant to unfold.

This perspective shift often leads to the discovery of new contacts and opportunities that may not have been apparent before. Coupled with a strong work ethic, self-discipline, and the ability to control how I respond to situations, these elements collectively contribute to building resilience in the face of challenges. The journey as a filmmaker has taught me that setbacks are not the end but rather stepping stones to unforeseen possibilities.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am truly passionate about being a filmmaker because, at its core, it allows me to be a storyteller. Whether drawing inspiration from personal experiences, human interactions, or the depths of my imagination, my goal is to connect with like-minded individuals through the art of filmmaking and engage in meaningful dialogues with those who may have different perspectives.

My focus primarily lies in the realms of drama, sci-fi, and horror genres, where I delve into narratives with strong characters facing challenges, overcoming them, and undergoing transformative journeys. What excites me the most is the ability to weave compelling stories that resonate with people on different levels.

Currently, I am immersed in the post-production phase of my feature-length horror/sci-fi film titled “WITH A WHIMPER.” The storyline, rooted in Lovecraftian lore, is written by Devin Fearn, who earned an “Honorable Mention” for his feature “THE ENDLING” in the ScreenCraft Horror 2022 Competition. Additionally, his Western/Horror TV Pilot “STRANGE FLESH” secured a spot in the top 5 in the ScreenCraft Horror 2023 Competition. Collaborating with long-term partner Glen D. Miller, known for his work on “Titanic” and “Dogma,” who serves as the Director of Photography, has been an enriching experience.

I am excited to share this upcoming project with the world, and I believe it will offer a unique and thrilling experience for audiences. Thank you for the opportunity to share a glimpse into my journey as a filmmaker!

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, three key qualities that significantly influenced my path are curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning, a strong work ethic paired with discipline, and effective communication skills. For those embarking on their journey, here’s some advice on how to cultivate and enhance these essential qualities:

Curiosity and Lifelong Learning:

Embrace opportunities that expand your industry knowledge and skills.
Stay consistently curious, and never tire of learning more and connecting with new people.
Seek out experiences that challenge your existing understanding and push you to grow.

Hard Work and Discipline:

Establish a structured schedule and stick to it, even when faced with challenging tasks.
Recognize that discipline is both simple and demanding; it requires a conscious commitment to progress.
Break down larger goals into manageable tasks and conquer them one step at a time.

Communication:

Create a balanced environment that includes both social and solitary time.
Be fully present when communicating with others, whether it’s colleagues, collaborators, or team members.
Practice transparency and openness in leadership, ensuring that your team is well-informed and engaged.

In summary, my success formula revolves around the pillars of hard work, discipline, continuous learning, and effective communication. By incorporating these qualities into your journey, you’ll not only navigate challenges more effectively but also create a solid foundation for sustained growth in your filmmaking endeavors.

We’ve all got limited resources, time, energy, focus etc – so if you had to choose between going all in on your strengths or working on areas where you aren’t as strong, what would you choose?
I believe that acquiring a comprehensive education is crucial for becoming a well-rounded individual, fostering essential skills such as logical reasoning, critical thinking, time management, and discipline. As one progresses through life, there comes a pivotal moment where a deeper dive into a specific area of interest becomes paramount.

Take, for instance, the path of directing film or television. In the initial stages, being a “jack of all trades” can be invaluable. This approach enables a thorough understanding of personal strengths, weaknesses, and knowledge gaps. It also facilitates effective communication with every member of the production team at every stage, from discussing pre-production needs with producers to technical details with the director of photography or VFX team for post-production requirements.

However, in the grander scheme of events, I firmly believe that any weaknesses can transform into strengths. If limitations arise in performing a particular task, it becomes an opportunity for innovation. This is where the mind’s creativity and courage come into play, transforming challenges into new and inventive solutions.

In essence, while a broad education equips us with a diverse skill set, there comes a time when delving deep into a chosen subject becomes a catalyst for personal and professional growth. It’s this combination of versatility and specialization that, in my belief, paves the way for success in any field.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Magic Hour Productions, INC.

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