We recently connected with Andres Beltran and have shared our conversation below.

Andres, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump right into the heart of things. Outsiders often think businesses or industries have much larger profit margins than they actually do – the reason is that outsiders are often unaware of the biggest challenges to profitability in various industries – what’s the biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?

I believe that in film and TV, navigating the duality between pursuing one’s dream project and ensuring profitability is always challenging. In essence, it’s the struggle between art and commercial success. Most artists grapple with this dilemma, and in my opinion, the best ones learn to strike a harmonious balance between the two.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was born in Cali, Colombia, in 1986. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a movie fanatic. I used to go to the theaters with my parents to watch one or two, sometimes even three films per week. Although my parents weren’t in the business, they always enjoyed watching films with me. So, when the time came to choose a career, the answer was clear: I wanted to make movies! Since that day, not a single day has passed without me dreaming about making films.

It’s a really challenging and competitive world, so I started making short films while I was in high school. Then, during my undergrad, I kept making them. Finally, at the age of 25, I decided I needed to pursue the dream of making a feature film if I really wanted to become a Director. So, when I was 27, I shot my first feature film. Of course, with the help of my now-wife, who was my girlfriend back then, family, friends, and a bunch of professional actors who somehow believed in us and the project.

This film, entitled ‘Malos Dias’ (‘Bad Days’), was selected for the official selection of the Warsaw Film Festival in 2015. Later on, the film was released in theaters in Colombia and it caught the attention of some executives at the biggest network in Colombia named Caracol TV. After watching my film, they decided to bring me in as a Second Unit Director for their first collaboration with Netflix. After that, I did two more projects with them as a Director. With these projects, I received awards and nominations that put me in the picture in Colombia.

It also gave me recognition to move on to more premium TV series in Colombia for prominent platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Paramount +. Among those projects I’ve directed, I can mention ‘Distrito Salvaje’ (Wild District), the first Netflix Original series from Colombia; ‘MalaYerba’, the first Original StarzPlay series produced by Dynamo, Pantaya, and Sony; and ‘Primate’, an Amazon Exclusive series.

My second feature film, a horror movie entitled ‘Llanto Maldito’ (‘Tarumama’), was part of the Official Section of the Sitges International Film Festival in 2021 and was acquired and released that same year by HBO Max. It is a horror film about maternity and parenthood in general. I used a Colombian folk tale named “Tarumama”, which bears some resemblance to the Mexican legend of “La Llorona”.

In 2022, I directed ‘Quicksand’, my first English Language film, written by Matt Pitts (‘Westworld’) and acquired by AMC, and released as a Shudder Original in the United States. That same year, I moved to LA with my family, and since then, I’ve directed more TV series in Mexico and Colombia. My latest credits include ‘Socorro’, a Paramount + Original horror series shot in Mexico, and ‘La Hora Marcada’, a reboot of the classic Mexican horror TV series, famous because prominent Mexican Academy Award Winners like Guillermo Del Toro, Alfonso Cuaron, and Emmanuel Lubezki worked on the original series back in the 90s.

Today, I’m working on a new script entitled ‘Anima’, a horror story set in a Southern Californian town near the border with Mexico, that deals with grief.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I believe most creative and artistic careers are built on encountering numerous “NOs” and facing closed doors. It’s a natural process all artists endure. Success hinges on one’s ability to weather these setbacks. While there are rewards and opportunities, each open door signifies perseverance through countless rejections. This is why resilience often takes precedence over talent in the world of filmmaking. My career is no exception to this rule. I’ve worked on projects that never materialized, others that were on the verge of production before being canceled, and some that I’ve filmed but remain unreleased. Despite these challenges, a resilient spirit drives me forward. I cling to that determination. I will pursue my passion regardless.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I would say there are some elements that I find have helped build my reputation. One of them is always being passionate about the film or show that I’m about to direct. I know for a fact that some directors aren’t involved in the production because they lack enthusiasm for filmmaking. They merely go to the set to get through the day and return home. However, my deep affection for filmmaking and the love I hold for cinema make me genuinely happy and excited to make a living doing something I love.

Another crucial element, I believe, is working hard and being rigorous with the work we are doing. Equally important is treating my crew, actors, and collaborators with kindness and joy. This approach is vital because it not only fosters a positive work environment but also encourages everyone to give their best effort. Leading with kindness transforms the pressure of doing a great job into a personal challenge.

Lastly, I would say that I’ve always enjoyed studying, watching films, or reading books on the subject that I’m dealing with. I’m constantly seeking to bring new ideas or approaches to the set. This creativity stems from thorough research and study, aiding me in thinking outside the box, which is always crucial in all creative endeavors.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.andresbeltran.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andresbcine/ | @andresbcine
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andresbcine/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andresbeltrandirector/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/andresbcine | @andresbcine
• Other: IMDb: imdb.me/andresbeltran