We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mark Jacobs. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mark below.
Mark, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
When I was 12, I had my grandmother Joy call the local CBS affiliate in Las Vegas, KLAS, to see if I could take a tour of the station. Well, never so excited than the moment I stepped into the studio where the news set and production equipment were located. That summer, Joy took me daily to the station. I looked, listened, asked questions and operated studio cameras that summer. I continued to “hang out” at the station for four years and made my way into the news room where at the age of 14 shot my first news story. It was an interview with the “Brown Bomber” boxer Joe Louis. He was an old retired World Champion Heavyweight brawler from the 1930’s to the 1970’s who found himself a casino greeter at Caesars Palace. At age 16, I was offered a job as a full time studio camera operator and weekend news photographer for the summer. During my time in high school, I stayed on in the same capacity but part time.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have worn many hats throughout my career – a United States Army veteran, television, and film director (DGA), producer, cinematographer, journalist, and video editor. His story is one of dedication, innovation, and a passion for storytelling. Before coming to Los Angeles and entering the entertainment world of television, commercials, music videos, documentaries, and feature films, I spent 28 years of my life in broadcast television news. My journey began as a top photojournalist and news manager, where I led teams to deliver innovative local news content. I also played a pivotal role in testing and implementing new technologies in the realms of photojournalism, editing, and news production.
My news photography and video editing did not go unnoticed. I was honored with an impressive tally of 51 television news awards, including 22 Emmys, two Edward R. Murrow awards, and five Golden Mics. I have always been committed to bring excellence in storytelling and deliver an impact that was received by the recognition I received.
In 2017, I was inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Truly a testament to the significant contributions to the field of television news and journalism.
The transition from television news to the world of television series, commercials, feature films, and pilots marked a new chapter in my career. Since 2004, I have directed over 55 television series and pilots, earning accolades such as a daytime Emmy and other prestigious prizes. Some of the notable series as a director include “Breaking Bonaduce,” “Rob n Big,” “Kitchen Nightmares,” “Glee,” “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” and “Ellen.”
My work extends beyond television, as I have had the honor to produce and direct Coldplay’s “Church” music video and the feature documentary “Jesse’s Story,” released in 2009. The latter was recognized throughout film festivals with national and international motion picture awards, showcasing his versatility and storytelling finesse.
As the president and founder of Zzyzx Films Inc, a production company focused on non-profit and philanthropic filmmaking, I always strive to utilize my gifts and talents to make a positive impact. Our company produces short and feature-length films that address critical issues in the community.
I am committed to making a difference by going beyond the screen. Since 2014, I have led numerous teams to Eswatini, Africa, where we provide for the children affected by HIV and AIDS. The result of our efforts is a community center providing education, nutrition, and shelter to those in need.
Beyond my professional achievements, I truly find joy in his personal life. I live in Torrance, California, with my wife Jocelyn and am the proud father of my daughter Hanna, a photojournalist at ABC in Las Vegas.
I truly feel that as a filmmaker, I am recognized more importantly as a testament to an unwavering dedication, creativity committed to making a positive impact on the world, both on and off the screen.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
I believe that as creatives, there is no replacement for the human connective tissue, emotion, anticipation. Nothing created by humans can replace those elements of our human existence. Therefor, I utilize the knowledge, experience of telling compelling and relative stories to help expose the needs, which seem to be unending, and produce short and feature length films to “help” fill those needs.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Faith. Coming to a faith later in life I began to understand that it’s not “all about me”. It’s about what parts of our lives as individuals compliment the existence of humanity. If that makes sense. In other words, think of it as a cog on the rear wheel of a multiple geared bicycle. That cog has individual teeth which represent each of us in the cog of life. That cog is spun which in turn drives the wheel forward, as we are driven through life. Ultimately, the pedals and the chain represent our lives. Sometimes pedals fall off or the chain jumps off the front sprocket. Either way, the power that drives all of it is our faith. Driven by a force we can see, touch or smell but lives in us. When I came to a point in my life of understanding that, it humbled me greatly and gave me a sense of what my purpose was. Not just a Director, Cinematographer, Producer, Editor, Journalist etc. but overall… Storyteller
Contact Info:
- Website: www.zzzyzxfilms.com
- Instagram: @mark.s.jacobs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markj13
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjacobszzyzxfilms
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MARK_S_JACOBS
- Youtube: @markjacobs13
- Yelp: Mark J.
Image Credits
I certify that all photos are mine to use and were taken by family and close friends.