We were lucky to catch up with Alexander Cooper recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alexander , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I’ve no doubt that much like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Alexander Cooper will be back.” – Jolly Moel, screencritix

“there is some excellent acting by the whole cast…I am now fascinated by this man to who I have just been introduced. Sandow was a great subject choice for a film, and for that, I applaud Gerard Maurez and Alexander Cooper for a very well-written movie.” – Rick Murrin, 22 Indie Street

“An epic historical drama..” -Joseph Dobzynski, Jr. , critic

An Alexander Cooper Film

SANDOW

What builds the perfect man ?

Banned by Amazon – watch now on Vimeo!

An impressionable Launceston Elliot (Alexander Cooper) comes under the spell of the iconic Sandow The Magnificent, a performing circus strongman. He seeks him out as his mentor to train him for the Olympics. Written, produced and directed by Alexander Cooper, and introducing Timo Kervinen as Sandow.

“A decent effort for Alexander Cooper’s directorial debut. The performances given here were believable and well done.” 7.4/10 Pick It Or Flick It

“I liked the story and the director was clearly passionate about his work.” – Madness Cinema

“Sandow is a perfect example of British Indie Film” – 8/10 Moustache Movie News

“True film making alchemy from a first-time British Director on the cusp of breaking through the indie film scene….Alexander Cooper takes you back to a time when legends were built…Sandow is the kind of film you remember afterwards and want to watch again” – Boyd Davis

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello there,

Thank you for the opportunity to share a bit about myself and my creative journey. My name is Alexander Cooper, and I wear many hats in the entertainment industry – as an actor, producer, director, and the founder of Cooper Watches.

My journey into this dynamic world began with a deep passion for storytelling. From a young age, I found solace and inspiration in the magic of cinema, where films such as Rocky IV, made a lasting impact on me. This love led me to eventually pursue acting, where I honed my craft on stage at school and at with the local Shoestring Theatre and later on screen, learning the nuances of character and narrative.

As I delved deeper into the industry, I realized the power of storytelling extended beyond performance. I became fascinated by the behind-the-scenes process of bringing stories to life, which naturally led me to explore producing and directing. These roles allowed me to collaborate with incredible talents and bring unique visions to fruition including Parallel (2016), Sandow (2018) and Big Dick Energy (2022) amongst other independent films.

In parallel to my work in film, I founded Cooper Watches with a vision to blend artistry with functionality. Our timepieces are not just accessories; they’re reflections of style, craftsmanship, and innovation. We provide products that not only tell time but also tell stories – of elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty.

At Cooper Watches, we solve the problem of finding watches that not only serve a practical purpose but also elevate one’s sense of style and individuality. We strive to offer pieces that resonate with our clients on a personal level, becoming cherished companions in their daily lives.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each watch is meticulously designed and crafted, ensuring precision and durability. We blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, resulting in timepieces that stand the test of time, both in terms of style and functionality.

I am incredibly proud of the creative legacy I am building through both my artistic endeavors and Cooper Watches. Whether it’s through a captivating performance, a thought-provoking film, or an exquisite timepiece, my aim is to inspire and connect with audiences on a profound level.

Ultimately, I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that authenticity and passion are at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s on stage, behind the camera, or in the design studio, I pour my soul into my work, and I hope it resonates with all who encounter it.

Thank you for your interest in my journey, and I look forward to sharing more stories and creations with you in the future.

Warm regards,

Alexander Cooper

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Supporting independent filmmakers and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem involves several key initiatives:

Funding and Grants: Providing financial support through grants, subsidies, and funding programs specifically tailored for independent filmmakers can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with film production. These funds can be used for equipment, location permits, post-production, marketing, and other essential expenses.

Access to Resources: Creating platforms or networks that connect independent filmmakers with resources such as equipment rental facilities, studio spaces, post-production facilities, and mentorship programs can greatly enhance their ability to bring their projects to fruition.

Education and Training: Offering workshops, seminars, and educational programs on various aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound design, can empower independent filmmakers with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their craft.

Distribution Channels: Facilitating access to distribution channels, whether through film festivals, online streaming platforms, or independent theatres, is crucial for independent filmmakers to showcase their work to a wider audience. Building partnerships with distribution companies or creating platforms dedicated to promoting independent films can amplify their reach.

Networking Opportunities: Organizing networking events, film screenings, and industry mixers where independent filmmakers can connect with potential collaborators, investors, distributors, and other industry professionals can foster a supportive community and open up opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Recognition and Awards: Establishing awards and recognition programs specifically for independent filmmakers can help elevate their work and provide validation for their creative endeavours. This recognition not only boosts morale but also attracts attention from audiences and industry insiders.

Legal and Business Support: Providing legal and business support services, such as assistance with contracts, copyright issues, licensing agreements, and navigating the complexities of film financing and distribution deals, can help independent filmmakers protect their intellectual property and ensure fair treatment in business transactions.

Promotion and Marketing: Offering assistance with marketing and promotion strategies, including social media campaigns, press releases, and publicity stunts, can help independent filmmakers generate buzz and attract attention to their projects.

Community Engagement: Encouraging community engagement through screenings, Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and other interactive events not only helps independent filmmakers connect with their audience but also fosters a sense of community and support within the local creative ecosystem.

Advocacy and Policy Support: Advocating for policies and initiatives that prioritize the interests of independent filmmakers, such as tax incentives for film production, funding for cultural institutions, and protection of artists’ rights, can create a more conducive environment for creativity and innovation to thrive.

By implementing these initiatives, society can better support independent filmmakers and contribute to the growth and sustainability of a vibrant creative ecosystem.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One aspect that non-creatives might struggle to understand about the journey of a creative individual is the nonlinear nature of creativity and the often unpredictable path it takes. Here are some insights that could help shed light on this:

The Messiness of Creativity: Creativity is not a linear process with clear steps and milestones. It often involves a lot of trial and error, experimentation, and even failure. Non-creatives might struggle to grasp why creatives seem to embrace chaos and uncertainty rather than seeking a clear, structured path. For me, creating film art has helped me deal with the chaos and loss inherent in lie, for example, after my father who I was extremely close with passed away from blood cancer in 2014, this led me to filming Sandow in 2018. It’s a powerful example of how creativity can serve as a means of coping with life’s challenges and finding meaning amidst chaos and loss.

For many creatives, the process of creating art can be a form of catharsis and healing. When faced with difficult circumstances like the loss of a loved one, the act of creating allows individuals to channel their emotions, thoughts, and experiences into something tangible and meaningful. In my case, creating film art became a way to navigate through the grief of my father passing away, transforming pain into a creative expression.

Filmmaking, in particular, offers a unique platform for storytelling and self-expression. Through the medium of film, I was able to capture my father’s legacy and explore themes of loss, resilience, and hope. By immersing myself in the creative process, I found a way to honour his memory and make sense of my own journey through grief.

It’s understandable that non-creatives might struggle to comprehend why creatives embrace chaos and uncertainty in their work. However, the experience I had highlights how creativity can provide a sense of purpose, direction, and solace during difficult times. My journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.

Emotional Rollercoaster: Creativity can be an emotional rollercoaster. There are highs of inspiration and breakthroughs, but also lows of self-doubt, frustration, and rejection. Non-creatives may not understand why creatives are so deeply affected by criticism or setbacks in their work.

Perseverance and Resilience: Creative endeavors often require a tremendous amount of perseverance and resilience. It’s about pushing through periods of doubt and uncertainty, facing rejection, and continuing to create despite obstacles. Non-creatives might underestimate the strength of character required to persist in the face of such challenges.

The Importance of Solitude and Reflection: Creativity often thrives in solitude and moments of deep reflection. Non-creatives might not understand why creatives need time alone to think, ponder, and recharge their creative energies.

The Intersection of Passion and Practicality: Creatives often navigate the delicate balance between pursuing their passion and meeting practical needs such as financial stability. Non-creatives may struggle to understand why creatives choose to prioritize their artistic vision over more conventional career paths.

The Need for Creative Freedom: Creativity flourishes when individuals have the freedom to explore and express themselves without constraints. Non-creatives may not realize the importance of providing creatives with autonomy and space to innovate.

Overall, the journey of a creative is multifaceted and complex, shaped by a unique blend of inspiration, dedication, resilience, and personal growth. Understanding these nuances can help non-creatives appreciate the challenges and joys that come with the creative process.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cooperwatches.co.uk
• Instagram: instagram.com/alexander.p.cooper
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexcooper81
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercooper2/
• Twitter: twitter.com/alexcooper81
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC19QsHne9k5k5aWg8Rm5M_A