We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mohammed Alshehhi a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Mohammed, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
In the military, I absorbed a crucial lesson that has stayed with me: the strength of teamwork. The notion that one person’s mistake impacts the entire unit, resulting in collective consequences, is a principle that has continued to shape my outlook on collaboration even today. This mindset has become ingrained in my approach to teamwork, influencing how I perceive my teammates.
I often compare the team to a ship, where every member is a crucial part of the crew. If one person falters, the entire vessel can be affected. This analogy has become a guiding principle in my daily collaborations, serving as a reminder that success is a collective effort. Just like a ship won’t move forward if all hands aren’t paddling together, a team can only thrive when each member contributes their best.
The military’s emphasis on collective responsibility has instilled in me the importance of having a dependable and cohesive team, especially during challenging times. I carry this perspective into various aspects of my life, whether it’s in a professional setting or personal projects. Ensuring I have a team I can rely on, knowing that we’re all paddling in the same direction, provides a robust foundation for overcoming obstacles and achieving our goals.
This philosophy of shared responsibility not only fosters a sense of unity but also instills a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of our actions. It’s a mindset that has proven invaluable in navigating the complexities of teamwork, where the strength of the collective often determines our ability to move forward, overcome challenges, and ultimately succeed.
Mohammed, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I spent my formative years in the United Arab Emirates, specifically Dubai. Currently, I am an international student enrolled at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles. My journey into the realm of filmmaking and artistic production commenced at the tender age of 5, and this innate creative inclination has consistently fueled my ambition to become a storyteller. My aspiration is to direct fellow artists in crafting visual masterpieces capable of influencing and resonating with individuals in their day-to-day lives.
My initial foray into the world of storytelling began with a fascination for Japanese anime during middle school. The intricate narratives and well-developed character personalities found in anime deeply influenced my directorial approach, particularly evident in the short films I have crafted thus far. This early interest in animation naturally evolved into a passion for editing and seamlessly blending animations with traditional movies, resulting in a unique storytelling style.
Delving further into the cinematic landscape, my exploration led me to older films, with a particular emphasis on film noir. I believed that understanding the foundations predating contemporary technological advancements was essential. In this pursuit, I discovered the works of Alfred Hitchcock, whose storytelling approach resonated with me. High school became a period of dedicated study, encompassing scriptwriting and a meticulous analysis of character journeys.
Upon graduating from high school, I faced the challenge of financing my cinematic aspirations. This dilemma led me to enlist in the military, taking a hiatus to reflect and strategize. Coming from a military background, this decision resonated with the wishes of my late grandfather. After serving for two and a half years, I redirected my path to the United States, not to pursue filmmaking immediately but to study business.
During my military service, I formulated a plan to establish a production company in my home country. Armed with a solid foundation in business, I transitioned into the world of film, bringing my scripts to life and fueling my enthusiasm for the craft.
A defining characteristic that sets me apart in this field is my unyielding perfectionism. Each project becomes an obsession, a mental challenge that demands resolution until complete satisfaction is achieved. As an avid fan of true stories, much of my work is based on personal experiences, with recent feature scripts delving into true events. I believe these stories possess universal relatability, resonating with audiences from various walks of life.
Proudly carrying lessons learned from the military—where problem-solving is paramount—I approach filmmaking with a meticulous eye for detail, akin to Hitchcock’s fastidiousness. In the business realm, my ultimate vision is to establish a company that not only produces films but also sponsors and funds emerging filmmakers in the Middle East and around the world. The goal is to create a cinematic platform as influential as Hollywood, providing a voice for hidden talents and contributing to the cultural progression of the region & even on a global scale. I aspire to guide investors toward a future where these talents are recognized, fostering a belief in independent filmmakers and their unique visions.
Pride for me is coupled with the recognition that learning is an ongoing process, a sentiment I hold dear. I am acutely aware that, regardless of one’s level of expertise, there is always room for growth and endless opportunities to glean insights from others. In my journey, I’ve embraced the role of a perpetual student within the industry.
My immersion in the field commenced as a diligent observer, actively participating as an assistant director and script supervisor. I firmly believed that aligning myself with a director’s team afforded me a unique vantage point into their vision and the nuanced strategies employed in its execution. While it may not be my inherent style, I acknowledge a fundamental truth known to all filmmakers—nothing in film is entirely novel. The realization that cinematic patterns have been established and explored over time fueled my determination to carve a niche within this familiar landscape.
This gateway into the industry served as a catalyst for my directorial understanding, deepening my interest in diverse execution methods. Drawing inspiration from luminaries such as Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, and, notably, Alfred Hitchcock, I adopted and adapted elements from their distinct styles. I view these influences not as constraints but as building blocks, tools that I amalgamate to construct my unique directorial approach. My films, a testament to this amalgamation, showcase an evolving fusion of established styles that I continually seek to expand, refine, and ultimately make wholly my own.
As I embark on the next chapters of my cinematic journey, I carry with me the invaluable lessons from every frame, every script, and every collaboration. The realization that creativity is a dynamic interplay of learned techniques, borrowed wisdom, and personal innovation has become the driving force behind my work.
Looking ahead, my commitment is unwavering—to not only be a storyteller but also a conduit for the unheard voices not only in the Middle East but around the Globe. My aspiration extends beyond personal success; it encompasses the elevation of the entire cinematic landscape in every region. With my production company, I aim to foster an environment where emerging talents are not only recognized but also empowered to share their narratives on a global stage.
In this perpetual pursuit of excellence, I remain a student of the craft, understanding that growth stems from humility and an openness to learn. I find solace in the belief that every challenge is an opportunity, and every setback is a lesson waiting to be absorbed.
As my cinematic footprint continues to expand, I am driven by the desire to contribute not just to the art of filmmaking but to the broader cultural tapestry. Each film is a brushstroke on the canvas of my evolving career, a testament to the amalgamation of influences, styles, and, above all, a relentless dedication to the pursuit of authenticity.
In the grand tapestry of storytelling, my narrative is still unfolding—one frame, one script, one project at a time. And so, with gratitude for the past, enthusiasm for the present, and anticipation for the future, I step confidently into the uncharted territories of cinematic creation, ready to leave an indelible mark on the canvas of the silver screen.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative lies in the ability to continuously evolve and contribute to the rich tapestry of human expression. Through my journey in filmmaking, I’ve discovered profound joy in the process of crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on a deep and emotional level. Every film is an opportunity to explore new perspectives, challenge conventions, and provoke thought. The fusion of learned techniques and personal innovation, as evident in my diverse influences from Spielberg to Hitchcock, allows me to weave together a unique directorial style. This constant evolution, coupled with the realization that storytelling is an ever-expanding landscape, brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose to my creative endeavors.
Moreover, the prospect of providing a platform for untold voices in all corners of the world through my future production company adds another layer of reward to my artistic pursuits. Being able to empower emerging talents, amplify diverse narratives, and contribute to any cultural progression of any region gives my creative journey a deeper and more meaningful dimension. To sum up, the most rewarding aspect for me is the ongoing journey itself— the perpetual learning, the exploration of untapped potential, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on both the art of filmmaking and the broader societal conversation.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
Life has taught me a profound lesson — that nothing remains constant, and unpredictability is an inherent part of our journey. This insight stems from personal experiences, particularly the loss of my grandfather, dear friends, and the twists and turns in both my personal and professional life.
I used to believe in the power of planning, thinking that meticulous preparation could set life on a certain, predictable course. However, the more I’ve faced unexpected challenges, the more I’ve come to question the validity of that belief. No matter how much control I thought I had over my health, unforeseen changes still occurred. Even in the face of sickness, despite all attempts to manage and control, unpredictable patterns emerged.
The passing of my grandfather, who seemed perfectly fine just days before, shook the foundations of my understanding. Similarly, someone close and dear to me bravely fought cancer four times, confidently declaring, “one more to go,” only to lose the battle on the fifth attempt. Friends who I had plans to meet at the mall were suddenly taken away in a tragic car accident. Work, despite meticulous planning for a perfect shoot, encountered delays and challenges, making me realize that even with the best preparation, life can throw unexpected obstacles our way.
It’s in these moments of unpredictability that life reveals its true nature. The challenges in my professional life, especially during the production of a film inspired by the memory of that partner who battled cancer, showcased the delicate balance between control and the unforeseen.
In embracing the unpredictability of life, I’ve learned to appreciate the fragility of our existence. Resilience and adaptability become essential companions on this journey, and the ability to navigate uncertainties with determination and creativity becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Life, with its mix of joy and sorrow, triumphs and tribulations, is a constantly evolving tapestry that requires us to be present, flexible, and open to the unexpected.
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