We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Israel Melendez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Israel below.
Israel, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
Throughout my final two years of high school, I dedicated the second half of each school day to the Area Career Center (ACC) in Hammond, Indiana, where I took a multimedia broadcasting program. This provided me with my first hands-on experience in filmmaking, enabling me to develop my skills in directing, audio-visual screenwriting, and video editing. My instructor, Stephanie Reiser, a remarkable mentor who continues to inspire me, consistently supported me throughout my projects, regardless of their challenges. She imparted essential knowledge on project production and filming techniques, focusing on commercials, PSAs, documentaries, interviews, music videos, and news broadcasting. Upon graduating from high school during the height of the 2020 pandemic, I confidently applied my newly acquired skills to real-world client projects. I joined a production team called MildlyHappy, which consisted of myself and several close friends. Together, we embarked on a creative journey, producing numerous music videos and commercials for Chicago and Indiana creatives. Despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic, we remained active and engaged in our work. Simultaneously, I inadvertently ventured into the realm of portrait photography. As the team began booking photoshoots for various occasions, I found myself with limited photography experience, having primarily focused on capturing close-up shots of flowers and city skylines using an iPhone and random mobile editing apps. However, I was determined to enhance my skills and embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Restless nights transformed into productive mornings, as I dedicated myself to learning new editing softwares and sharing my work online. Throughout my filmmaking journey, I have consistently sought to refine my artistic vision and technical proficiency. I have dedicated myself to reading books on editing and cinematography, and I make it a daily habit to watch and study films, analyzing the techniques employed by the cast and crew. Four years and four cameras later, I continue to learn and grow as a filmmaker. The hands-on experience has been invaluable, providing me with a deep understanding of the fundamentals necessary to sustain my career.
The essential skills for these fields encompass technical, artistic, and communication abilities. Technical proficiency involves mastering editing software and utilizing cameras, lighting, and audio equipment effectively in various environments. Artistic skills include developing a cinematic vision through storyboarding, composition, and blocking. Communication is equally crucial, as it requires effective collaboration with clients, actors, and crew members who share a common goal of creating exceptional work. The ability to pitch ideas to investors and clients is paramount, and it is essential to be openly receptive to feedback, suggestions, and requests.
Over the past few years, I have observed that one of the most challenging aspects of life is the inherent need to learn from setbacks and failures. Each setback and failure has contributed to my growth and development, propelling me closer to my full artistic potential. I strive to instill in myself and my peers an unwavering optimism and faith, ensuring that hope remains intact during challenging times and creative blocks, even when it may seem irrational to persevere. Occasionally, I encounter creative blocks that hinder my desire to produce new work. These blocks can persist for weeks, eventually extending into months of uninspired struggles. During these periods, I still find inspiration in life experiences and engage in watching films or television shows. However, it is only when I reach a state of absolute boredom that I take decisive action, scheduling a shoot or initiating a new independent project that restores my momentum. I believe that if I had not taken these extended breaks between projects, I would maintain a greater level of relentless and consistent progress in my artistic journey. As my passion for this art form continues to evolve, so will my craft, persistence and ambition.
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.
My passion for filmmaking emerged during my early elementary school years. It all began when I had access to a collection of DVDs at home. I was captivated by the bonus features that included behind-the-scenes footage and interviews. Even the packaging of the DVDs held a magical allure for me at that time. Film was the first form of art that evoked such a profound emotional connection within me, and that connection persists to this day. My appreciation for film genres, directors, and films in general has expanded exponentially, and it is humbling to recognize the vastness of what remains to be discovered and learned. Music videos that span multiple decades also serve as a significant source of inspiration for me at present. I am deeply appreciative of more recent discoveries that have ignited my creative spark, including the works of Charlie Kaufman and the remarkable creations of David Lynch. In my current creative endeavors, I have discovered and connected with numerous inspiring creators from various parts of the world through platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Their daily work serves as a constant source of inspiration, fueling my creativity and inspiring me to incorporate new ideas into my own projects.
Among my most notable projects are a self-produced and self-directed mini-documentary and interview series, and a multimedia project in collaboration with Chicago-based photographer Juan Campos. The 2024 mini-documentary titled “Luscia Jane” explains the journey of a Chicago-based indie band of the same name. Additionally, from late 2023 to early 2024, I curated a weekly YouTube series titled “until we meet again,” which featured interviews conducted by me with various creatives from Chicago and Indiana. In early 2021, I collaborated with Juan Campos to produce a multimedia project entitled “Colorless Femme,” which explored the intersection of photography, videography, and the manipulation of color and black and white. My current project, commencing from 2024 through 2025, is a documentary that delves into the personal narratives of Vietnam veterans residing in South Chicago. The documentary will encompass the stories of the veterans and their families, as well as the surrounding narrative of a renowned Vietnam mural situated in South Chicago, which honors the veterans.
When not engaged in independent projects, I also offer services in both videography and photography through my own company, smile131. My services include packages tailored to various needs, such as portraits, concerts, commercials, music videos and special occasions. Creative vision, storytelling, and collaboration are my main priorities. I am passionate about capturing the essence of a scene or subject, crafting compelling visuals that elevate the overall message. I can position myself as an individual who not only comprehends technical aspects but also possesses a profound understanding of how to infuse soul into a project. Whether through dynamic film direction or the precise capture of a moment in photography, I am committed to delivering exceptional results that resonate with the audience.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Currently, the most gratifying aspect of my work is observing and absorbing the responses from friends, family, and others online. I am deeply appreciative of their unwavering support. I strive to convey a range of emotions and narratives through my projects, making it immensely rewarding to engage in profound and emotionally resonant discussions about them. Even receiving constructive criticism and critical reception is invaluable. However, there are instances when I reflect on certain projects and feel that I could have achieved more. While I may not be entirely satisfied with the outcomes, I recognize that these moments serve as great lessons, akin to the teachings of failure. That being so, I remain committed to continuous growth and artistic evolution.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The ultimate objective has remained consistent throughout my career aspirations. I have consistently yearned to engage in monumental projects within the realm of low to high-budget filmmaking. Whether through directing, cinematography, or screenwriting, I am committed to pursuing this journey to fulfill the dreams that have captivated me since childhood. I envision myself inspiring other creatives with similar visions, potentially winning prestigious awards that may currently appear unattainable, or collaborating with individuals who I now only consider my idols. This aspiration is a beautiful vision that I recognize will require limitless dedication and patience to achieve. I am determined and I eagerly anticipate the realization of my ideas on the big screen sooner than anticipated. In the meantime, I will continue to invest in and enhance my services and independent work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://smile131.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izzzyymel/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/izzzyymel
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@izzymel
Image Credits
Aylin Chavez; Juan Campos; Israel Melendez; Aidan Smith; Mianna Papageorge; Kylie Cabrera