Creator Spotlight with Filmmaker Paul D. Bestolarides
This week we’d like to introduce you to writer, director, and producer Paul D. Bestolarides. Be sure to follow Paul on Instagram and subscribe to his YouTube channel.
What was the inspiration behind becoming a filmmaker? What do you enjoy most about the creative process?
I am naturally curious about the world and my over-active imagination has currently provided me a window into movies. From start to finish, filmmaking is a shared experience. The creative process is most enjoyable when like-minded friends are performing at their best, on and off set. There is also a great feeling of being carried away after one story is completed, inviting the next adventure.
Can you talk through your creative process? How long does it take? Does everything you produce make money?
A short film can take weeks/months, but a feature film can take years. I tackle multiple projects simultaneously, so time is only relevant upon the moment of production. Our upcoming feature length film took one year to make from start to finish. The story is about a private duty nurse who cares for a retired actor and slowly discovers their roles are interchanged.
So far, the projects that I have directed, or worked on, have provided compensation. We also have sustained worldwide distribution on multiple platforms and streaming services. The testament of wealth is not related to finances, but through the ability to see growth in others. Like a vine producing grapes in season, the growth is natural. There is no impediment of financing a film as long as the vision is strong and carried with brevity.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about your work?
I find that there are many misconceptions about this profession. You do not have to go to film school, or have a million dollars to tell a good story. One who is interested in this craft has to formulate their own career, or maintain it through other means of work. There is no right way of pursuing this industry because your path is uniquely your own.
What is the best piece of advice that you would give other creators in your field about copyright and how to protect themselves?
As creators, we often suffer more in our imagination than reality, but what determines a true artist is one who imagines greater. Craft your own vision and try not to be like everyone else because everybody else is taken. In regards to copyright, I recommend obtaining copyright protection through the U.S. Copyright Office. Copyright protects the legitimacy of an original piece that is essential for growing your business.
What is your biggest copyright-related challenge?
Anyone can steal someone’s work. So, I usually do not share my stories with most individuals until they are finished and protected by copyright, including those participating in an actual production.
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