We recently connected with Elijah Perry and have shared our conversation below.
Elijah, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My journey into the world of creativity began quite early, at the tender age of 7, with my first encounter with my grandmother’s camera. This wasn’t just an ordinary interest; it was a profound fascination that had me captivated from the start. My grandmother would often find herself frustrated with me for using up all the film, a testament to my relentless desire to capture the world around me. Whether it was recording my little sister’s outdoor adventures, the squirrels in their playful glory, our lively video game battles, or just the sheer joy of running around in the backyard, I was there, camera in hand, attempting to freeze these fleeting moments in time. This constant tussle with my sister over the camera, far from being a hindrance, actually spurred my passion further, embedding in me a deep love for visual storytelling.
As I transitioned into middle school, my interests expanded alongside my world. Skateboarding became my new obsession, providing a dynamic backdrop for my evolving filming skills. Documenting my friends pulling off tricks down handrails, soaring over big gaps, and mastering complex maneuvers became my new canvas. This era marked a significant evolution in my approach to photography and videography, shifting from passive observation to active participation in the creation of thrilling action sequences.
High school graduation wasn’t the end but rather a launchpad for my creative aspirations. It was during this time that I ventured into producing my own skits, embracing the burgeoning world of short, impactful videos. My work started gaining traction, catapulting me into a sphere of recognition I had never imagined. The success of these ventures fueled my ambition, driving me to delve deeper into my craft. I began working on my own projects with a renewed sense of purpose and creativity. This phase of exploration and achievement underscored my commitment to my artistic journey, solidifying my decision to pursue this path professionally. It’s been a thrilling ride, marked by continuous learning, growing, and an unwavering passion for capturing the essence of life through my lens.”
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Hello, readers! My name is Elijah Perry, a blend of actor, producer, and content creator, and I’m currently 28 years young. My journey into the realm of creativity wasn’t straightforward—it was a vibrant mix of experiences and experiments. From a tender age, I found myself immersed in a variety of activities, but it was the allure of storytelling through visuals that truly captivated my heart. I vividly remember the days spent commandeering my grandmother’s camera, a humble beginning that unknowingly paved the path to my future in filmmaking. This early exploration into the world of film was more than just a pastime; it was the spark that ignited my passion for the creative arts. The realization that this was my calling came gradually, as each captured moment and playful experiment with the camera drew me deeper into the captivating world of visual storytelling. It wasn’t until I was fully engrossed that I understood the magnitude of my commitment—I was already too far down this mesmerizing path to ever consider turning back. That initial inspiration, stemming from innocent curiosity and the joy of creation, has been a guiding light in my journey, pushing me to explore, innovate, and express myself in ways I never thought possible.Transitioning into the industry, however, was a journey marked with its own set of challenges and uncertainties. Initially, I found myself at a crossroads between film and photography, grappling with the decision of which path to pursue. Acting and filmmaking ultimately won my heart, setting the stage for a significant shift in my life. Before making my way to Los Angeles, the epicenter of film and television, I spent time in San Francisco, exploring the theatrical side of my craft. However, the allure of film was irresistible, prompting a move back to LA to dive headfirst into the cinematic world. With no formal experience but a reservoir of passion and determination, I signed up with LA Casting, a pivotal step that opened doors to opportunities previously unimaginable.
My first foray into the professional realm was a guest appearance on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine,’ a show that has since become a household name. This experience, stepping onto a live set for the first time, was nothing short of exhilarating, marking the beginning of a series of remarkable opportunities. Following this, I landed a role in ‘Snowfall,’ a critically acclaimed series that delves into the crack cocaine epidemic of the 1980s in Los Angeles—a project that not only challenged me as an actor but also deepened my appreciation for the power of storytelling.
As my journey progressed, the digital realm of TikTok and YouTube beckoned, offering a platform for creativity and self-expression that was previously unthinkable. Collaborating with talents like Mason Good and King Vader, I ventured into creating content that resonated with a wide audience, liberating me from the traditional constraints of the industry. This phase of my career underscored a pivotal realization: the need for external validation or traditional pathways to success was diminishing. I could create, produce, and share my work directly with an audience that appreciated and supported it.
Navigating through the complexities of this industry, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges, from naysayers to the inevitable presence of those who doubted my path. The journey was never easy, fraught with obstacles and moments of self-doubt. However, it’s through pushing beyond these barriers that I’ve found my strength and voice. The criticism and negativity, while daunting, only fueled my resolve to persevere, reminding me that passion and persistence are the true keys to overcoming adversity and achieving one’s dreams.In the midst of navigating through various roles and projects, what I am most profoundly proud of is the culmination of my experiences and passions into a project that is entirely my own creation. Currently, I am in the throes of developing and preparing to shoot my very own TV show titled ‘Echos of the Forest,’ set to begin production in May. This project is particularly close to my heart, as it embodies a concept wholly original and untouched by others in the industry.
‘Echos of the Forest’ ventures into a mesmerizing narrative where the digital world and our reality converge into an all-encompassing adventure. The story centers around Jerry, Zan, and Frankie—three college students with a fervor for coding, who inadvertently find themselves trapped within a game of their own making. This isn’t merely a game; it’s a living, breathing world on the edge of being overtaken by a malevolent force with the potential to breach into our existence.
As our protagonists embark on a quest for liberation, their journey morphs into an exploration of self-discovery. They traverse a landscape where their digital personas conceal and yet gradually unveil their deepest fears, ambitions, and fortitudes. The narrative intricately weaves through the challenges they encounter, spotlighting the profound reflections of their choices not only in the digital expanse but resonating within their very beings, redefining their perceptions of companionship, identity, and the profound influence of technology on the human essence.
Beyond its compelling storyline, ‘Echos of the Forest’ is poised to redefine visual storytelling through a synthesis of visionary artistry and groundbreaking technology. Our ambition is to present a spectacle that marries breathtaking visuals with emotional depth, transforming viewers from mere observers to active participants in this odyssey. The contrast between the vibrant, life-filled digital domain and the stark nuances of our reality is designed to offer an immersive experience that captivates both the eyes and the heart.
This project is a testament to my journey, an amalgamation of my skills, creativity, and the lessons learned along the way. It reflects my commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling and visual effects, aiming to create something not only groundbreaking in terms of technology and narrative but also deeply reflective of the human condition. As ‘Echos of the Forest’ progresses towards production, it stands as a beacon of what passion, innovation, and perseverance can achieve, marking a pivotal moment in my career that I hope will resonate with audiences and industry peers alike.”
How did you build your audience on social media?
My adventure into social media, particularly TikTok, was both a study in creativity and a series of trial and error. The journey began with a simple desire to share and connect, but I quickly realized the power of experimentation and leaning into the quirky side of content creation. While I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some incredible TikTokers and YouTubers along the way, a significant breakthrough came from an unexpected source—recreating SpongeBob episodes in real life.
This idea struck a chord with viewers globally, catapulting my TikTok from a modest 2,000 followers to an astounding 56,000 and counting. The process of transforming beloved animated episodes into live-action scenarios resonated with many, blending nostalgia with a fresh, humorous twist. Witnessing tens of thousands of people engage with my videos has been nothing short of awesome. It’s incredibly motivating to know that my content brings laughter and joy to others. This experience has reinforced the importance of authenticity and innovation in my work.
For those just starting on their social media journey, my advice is to embrace your unique ideas, no matter how outlandish they may seem. Experimentation is key. Not every attempt will be a hit, but it’s through trying different things that you’ll find what truly resonates with your audience. Collaboration can also play a crucial role, providing exposure to new audiences and insights. Most importantly, remember that social media is about building connections. Making people laugh, think, or simply take a momentary break from their day can have a profound impact. So keep pushing, stay true to your creative spirit, and enjoy the journey of discovery and connection
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey unfolded when I decided to step into the healthcare field, a move that was as unexpected as it was transformative. Initially, my heart and soul were deeply embedded in film and content creation. However, I reached a point where I felt an urge to contribute to the world in a different, more direct manner. Additionally, I needed a stable means to support and fund my creative projects, which, at the time, were struggling to gain the traction I hoped for.
Becoming a medical transporter marked a significant pivot in my career and life. This role exposed me to the raw realities of human vulnerability and resilience. Seeing people in pain on a daily basis was both heart-wrenching and profoundly motivating. It underscored the fragility of life and the importance of pursuing one’s passions fervently. This experience didn’t just provide the financial means to support my creative endeavors; it offered a renewed perspective on the value of my work and the impact I wished to have.
This phase of my life taught me invaluable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the interconnectedness of our actions and aspirations. It reinforced my resolve to make a difference, not just through healthcare but also by creating content that could uplift, inspire, or simply provide an escape for those who needed it most. This pivot wasn’t just about finding a way to fund my projects; it was a journey towards understanding the broader impact I want to have on the world. It reminded me why I pursue the creative arts with such passion—because, in their own way, they heal, empower, and bring light to those in dark places.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialelijahboi/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elijah-perry-04b0751aa
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/itselijahbois
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Officialelijahboi
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialelijahboi?lang=en
Image Credits
n/a