The Journey of Kevin Interdonato: From Reluctant Businessman to Acclaimed Filmmaker
Kevin Interdonato, an actor, writer, director, and producer, has an inspiring story that reflects the challenges and triumphs of navigating the film industry. His journey is marked by personal revelations, professional growth, and the relentless pursuit of creative expression. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various aspects of Kevin’s life and career, touching upon his childhood experiences, the hurdles he faced, and the valuable lessons he learned along the way.
Growing Up in a Family Business
Kevin’s upbringing played a significant role in shaping his views on business and creativity. Growing up in a family construction business, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of being a business owner. His father, a hardworking man, often had to confront clients to collect payments. Kevin recalls, “Never in a million years did I think I would produce a movie because that meant opening up an LLC.” The stress and responsibility associated with entrepreneurship were daunting for him.
Seeing his father confront clients and handle the pressures of business made Kevin determined to avoid a similar fate. He preferred the simplicity of being an employee, working his hours, and receiving a paycheck without the added stress of ownership. This mindset persisted until he felt an undeniable creative urge that compelled him to enter the world of filmmaking.
Facing Internal Struggles
Despite his reluctance to enter the business side of film, Kevin realized that he needed to express himself creatively. He found himself at a crossroads—either continue as an actor or take the plunge into producing and directing. “I was busting at the seams,” he admits. Eventually, he decided to take the leap and create an LLC to produce his own projects, despite his initial mental blocks regarding business operations.
Kevin’s journey into filmmaking wasn’t smooth. He dedicated countless hours to learning about the industry, including attending workshops and speaking with friends who owned businesses. Overcoming his fears and misconceptions about business ownership became a crucial turning point in his career.
The Eye-Opening Experience of AFM
Attending the American Film Market (AFM) was a significant moment for Kevin. It helped him understand the commercial aspects of filmmaking and the importance of producing a product that could be sold in various markets. “I don’t look at what I do as a product,” he emphasizes, “I never will. To me, it’s selling art.” This perspective allowed him to balance his creative vision with the commercial realities of filmmaking.
Kevin learned that to succeed in the industry, one must consider the marketability of their projects. He reflects on the mistakes he made early in his career, emphasizing the importance of understanding genre and audience expectations. “If you are setting your movie up to succeed, you have to look at it like painting by numbers,” he explains, advocating for a strategic approach to filmmaking.
Learning from Mistakes
Kevin’s journey was not without its setbacks. He encountered challenges that tested his resolve and forced him to adapt to the industry’s demands. He acknowledges that many filmmakers make the mistake of prioritizing their personal vision over marketability, which can lead to financial losses. “If you deny that, you’re doing yourself, your movie, your investors, everyone involved a huge disservice,” he cautions.
He emphasizes the necessity of aligning creative work with market expectations to ensure success. Kevin learned that following industry norms while maintaining creativity is crucial. He shares, “If you stack your film appropriately and essentially follow the system, you will be in business.” This realization has guided him in his approach to filmmaking, ensuring that he creates projects with both artistic merit and commercial viability.
The Role of Producers in Filmmaking
As a filmmaker, Kevin wears many hats, including that of a producer. He highlights the importance of the producer’s role in the filmmaking process. “The producer hires everyone,” he states, pointing out that the producer’s decisions ultimately affect the project’s success. By thinking ahead and considering how to position a film for success, Kevin has been able to navigate the complexities of the industry effectively.
He stresses that the difference between a successful film and a failed one often lies in the producer’s ability to manage resources and make informed decisions. “It’s usually not the film that’s bad; it’s the person behind the film,” he explains, encouraging investors to be discerning when choosing projects to support.
Building a Successful Career
Through perseverance and a willingness to learn, Kevin has established himself as a respected figure in the indie film scene. His recent projects, including “The Bastard Sons,” showcase his growth as a filmmaker. “I was already told by a sales rep that the budget we’re using, she was kind of flabbergasted by it, but she’s like, you’re gonna do very well on it,” he shares, highlighting the positive outlook on his upcoming projects.
Kevin’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and making informed decisions to ensure success in the competitive world of filmmaking.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Kevin Interdonato’s story is one of transformation—from a hesitant employee to a confident filmmaker. His experiences illustrate the complexities of the film industry and the importance of balancing creativity with business acumen. By embracing his journey and learning from his mistakes, Kevin has carved out a successful career in filmmaking.
For those looking to follow in his footsteps, he offers advice rooted in his own experiences: “Be smart and get on top of it.” Kevin’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers, reminding them that success is achievable through hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to learn.
To watch Kevin’s work, check out The Bastard Sons on Prime Video. For more of his films, visit Tubi where you can find free streaming options.
Stay connected with Kevin Interdonato on Instagram and explore his filmography on IMDb.
