Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mariya Pyter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Mariya, thanks for joining us today. The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?

The journey of Magic Hour Productions, Inc. into the world of creative filmmaking took a significant turn with a remarkable project: a documentary commissioned by the producers of the Rotary Club Utah. Their mission was to bring the heartwarming story of Bear-o-Care to life, a facility dedicated to supporting children with multiple special needs. This project marked a pivotal moment in Magic Hour’s history, not only as a creative endeavor but as a meaningful opportunity to make a difference. The prospect of capturing the resilience and hope of these extraordinary children, their families, and the dedicated staff at Bear-o-Care was a compelling challenge. As they embarked on this project, Magic Hour Productions, Inc. knew that their first dollar earned in the world of creativity was not just a financial milestone, but a testament to their commitment to storytelling that touched hearts and inspired change.

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.

For those who may not have crossed paths with Mariya Pyter’s remarkable journey in the world of filmmaking, her story is a testament to a lifelong passion for the arts that began in the heart of Russia. Mariya’s artistic journey unfolded early on, drawing her deeply into the world of theater productions. However, it was her unwavering dedication and thirst for creative expression that led her to pursue a film directing certificate from the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

At UCLA, Mariya excelled academically and graduated from the renowned Directing program, setting the stage for her professional trajectory. She honed her skills and gained valuable experiences working with industry giants such as Dr. Phil’s show and CBS. In 2013, she took the bold step of founding Magic Hour Productions, Inc., her esteemed production company that marked the beginning of a prolific creative journey.

One of the defining moments in Mariya’s career was her collaboration with acclaimed cinematographer Bruce Finn (USC), which resulted in a powerful Women In Film-produced Public Service Announcement for the charity “A New Way of Life: Re-entry Project.” This project earned the prestigious Gold Aurora Award in 2017 and exemplified Mariya’s commitment to impactful storytelling.

Mariya’s talents extended to the world of short films, where works like “The Dead are Silent” and “On the Way to Lovetown” garnered multiple accolades on the global stage. Her feature-length documentary, “22,” shone a light on the lives of children with special needs and achieved worldwide distribution through platforms like Amazon and VOD.

Her awards and recognition include the Gold Telly and Gold Aurora Awards for the “One-second” WIF-produced PSA and six nominations at the 48 Film Project, including a triumph as Best Director. Even in the midst of the challenging COVID pandemic, Mariya ventured into the realm of short animation with haunting and captivating works like “Me-eat” and “Somewhere in the Milky Way.”

Currently, Magic Hour Productions, Inc. is deeply immersed in the development of feature-length projects, including “Night Witches” and “Nazi mistress.” In June 2023, Mariya embarked on her much-anticipated feature film directorial debut, “With a Whimper,” an original script by Devin Fearn, which is currently in post-production.

Beyond her prolific career as a filmmaker, Mariya Pyter is a dedicated educator, imparting her artistic wisdom as a Director at the Rough Cut Film Festival’s Directing Workshop and serving as a Writing Mentor at the esteemed Young Storytellers program. She is also a Workshop Developer and Instructor for the Cinema Lab at STEM World, Pasadena, CA, and curates the film grant at S.T.E.A.M. for Humanity Foundation.

Mariya’s commitment to the film community is reflected in her affiliations with esteemed organizations such as Women in Film, LA, Artemis Women in Action Film Festival, Jeanie Buss’ Women of Wrestling, LA Film Festival, and the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

In essence, Mariya Pyter stands for providing her audience with excellent and entertaining storytelling, gravitating towards genres like drama, history, true-life stories, and adventure. Her dedication to her craft, her commitment to impactful narratives, and her tireless efforts in both the creative and educational spheres are what set her apart and make her a dynamic force in the world of filmmaking and storytelling.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

At the heart of my creative journey as a filmmaker and storyteller lies a deeply cherished mission: to give voice to the stories that resonate within me. This path, often marked by solitary hours of directing and writing, finds its greatest reward in the moment when those stories connect with a broader audience. It’s a profound experience that brings about a sense of unity and understanding, revealing that the questions, struggles, and challenges I’ve put on paper and screen are shared by those around me. My goal is to bridge the gaps between individuals, to ignite empathy and foster conversations through the power of storytelling. Every film I create is a testament to this mission, a journey that allows us to explore the collective human experience, and a reminder that we are never truly alone in our quest for answers and connection.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

There have been several books that have significantly influenced my management and entrepreneurial thinking in the entertainment industry. Here are some of them:

“Powerhouse: The Untold Story of Hollywood’s Creative Artists Agency” – James Andrew Miller’s book provides a captivating look into the history and impact of the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in Hollywood. It’s a testament to the power of effective management and negotiation in the entertainment world.

“On Directing Film” by David Mamet – David Mamet’s concise guide to directing for film has not only improved my understanding of the director’s role but has also enhanced my ability to manage creative teams effectively.

“Directing Actors” by Judith Weston – This book is a treasure trove of insights into the director-actor relationship, offering practical techniques for clear communication with performers. It’s a valuable resource for managing talent on set.

“Save the Cat!” by Blake Snyder – While primarily a screenwriting guide, Blake Snyder’s book has influenced my entrepreneurial approach by breaking down storytelling and screenwriting structure. These principles are applicable when developing and pitching creative ideas.

“Rebel Without a Crew” by Robert Rodriguez – Robert Rodriguez’s candid account of making “El Mariachi” with limited resources is an inspirational resource for indie filmmakers and entrepreneurs. It underscores the importance of resourcefulness and determination.

These resources have been instrumental in shaping my management and entrepreneurial philosophy within the entertainment industry. They provide a solid foundation for understanding the dynamics of the field, effective leadership, and the creative aspects of filmmaking and content creation.

I am tempted to list another 100 books at least, as these resources are just the tip of the iceberg in the ever-changing and dynamic entertainment business. There is a vast wealth of knowledge and inspiration available for those looking to explore and navigate this fascinating industry further.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.magichourproductionsinc.com
• Instagram: @MariyaPyter

Image Credits
Magic Hour Productions, INC.