We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gary Karapetyan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gary below.

Gary, appreciate you joining us today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Thank you for the question. Success, in my opinion, is a complex idea that includes more than just career and financial accomplishments. While recognition and accomplishments are significant, I believe that genuine success is strongly related to one’s sense of happiness and joy.

Pursuing a sincere passion is one important factor that contributes to success. Passion is a driving force, as it inspires people to put in the required work, devotion, and time to succeed in their chosen fields. Challenges become chances for progress rather than obstacles when you are enthusiastic about what you do.

Also I think that success is mostly determined by flexibility and ongoing learning. The world is continuously changing, and those who accept it and are willing to pick up new abilities and skills have the most success.

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 everyone. I’m delighted to share my story with you. I am an independent filmmaker based in Los Angeles. My journey into the field of filmmaking has been all about devotion, creativity, and a passion to creating a positive impact.

From a young age, I was fascinated by good storytelling and the craft of visual expression. I have a strong desire to tell stories that have a lasting impact. My love towards storytelling encouraged me to focus in directing, where I discovered my true purpose, as I continue to sharpen my abilities and improve my art.

After years of experience, I started my own production company, “Dark Eye Productions.” The commitment of making films that go beyond entertainment and explore the world of societal impact is the core of my mission statement. Every film I’ve directed, centers around the theme of mental health and the transformative power of following your heart.

Underpinning my work is the belief that films have the capacity to bring about positive change. They possess the ability to start conversations, challenge perceptions, and inspire empathy.

My work is motivated by the phrase “Creating films that impact our society”. I’m determined to tell stories that matter rather than just telling stories for the thrill of it. I’ve made it a personal goal of mine to alter people’s hearts and minds through the films I create. Each motion picture captures feelings and experiences that everyone can relate to, regardless of background or identity.

The intense emotional engagement I put into each narrative is one feature that distinguishes me as a filmmaker. I really immerse myself in the stories I tell, making an effort to accurately capture feelings and sensations.

The ability to combine my love of  filmmaking with my goal to make a positive impact on society is what I’m most proud of. Knowing that my work has impacted people’s lives and won numerous awards at various film festivals  gives me a so much satisfaction. With “Dark Eye Productions,” my major objective will always be to tell stories that inspire, enlighten, and resonate with people from all walks of life.

I’d want to end by saying that my filmmaking journey is motivated by authenticity, empathy, and a sincere desire to make a difference. I want future supporters, followers, and fans to know that I’m not just making films with “Dark Eye Productions,” I’m making experiences that encourage audiences to think, connect, and grow.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is recognition and impact.

Influence and recognition is, in my opinion, the most fulfilling part of being an artist or creative. Without a doubt, receiving awards at film festivals is rewarding. It recognizes the effort, commitment, and originality put into each creation. It’s a definite indication that my creative efforts have found an audience with both viewers and professionals in the industry.

But above and beyond the appreciation, the knowledge that my work has had an effect on someone’s life warms my heart. I try to tell tales as a filmmaker that arouse feelings, provoke thought, and start discussions. When a viewer of one of my movies comes up to me and expresses how moved they were or how it changed the way they thought, it is an amazing feeling.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I started a journey at the age of 18, straight out of high school, that would put my resilience to the test in ways I never imagined. I wrote a script that I wholeheartedly believed in because I was passionate and had a burning desire to bring stories to life on screen. My first film, “Czech Mate on Ice,” officially began production at this time.

I made the leap into the world of independent filmmaking with unwavering determination. I was aware that this project would require not only creativity but also resiliency, resourcefulness, and a firm faith in my vision. I started the production by launching a crowdfunding campaign in the hopes of obtaining the required funding.

I refused to give up and sought out the help of my close friends and family. Their confidence in me and my endeavor became an essential component of my strength. I was able to gather the funding I needed to proceed with their support and encouragement.

The difficulties, however, were far from over. I ran into obstacles as I dove into the production phase that put my perseverance to the test. Finding filming locations proved to be difficult because the city officials were resistant to giving me the necessary permissions…

Even though the odds were against me, I refused to give up. I was driven by the belief that my story needed to be told and that the difficulties were just a means to an end. I continued after each setback by looking for solutions and alternatives.

The turning point finally came when “Czech Mate on Ice” was finished. I experienced a wave of emotions as the credits rolled and the movie came to life on the screen. The journey had been characterized by doubt, opposition, and numerous challenges, but it had also been a time of self-discovery, growth, and a beginning of a new chapter.

I was rewarded in ways I never could have imagined for the determination I had developed throughout this journey. As ‘Czech Mate on Ice’ continued winning awards, it showed how much heart and soul I had poured into it. The award was more than just a confirmation of my efforts; it was a symbol of the strength of resiliency and the capacity to overcome challenges.

I learned from this experience how crucial it is to have self-confidence, even in the face of doubt. It taught me that overcoming obstacles and seeing them as chances to get stronger is the mark of true resilience.

The journey of ‘Czech Mate on Ice’ remains a cornerstone of my creative career. This imperfect film has a special place in my heart, reminding me that with passion, resilience, and a willingness to persevere, even the most audacious dreams can become reality.

Contact Info:

• Website: imdb.me/garykarapetyan
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garrr_bear/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.karapetyan.films
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-karapetyan-33a915166
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@darkeyeproductions4915

Image Credits
Dark Eye Productions George Pilafdzhyan Elias Shankaji Gonzo Vasquez Steve Escarcega Ethan Asin