We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Martian Angjaya a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Martian, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with 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?

My journey into the world of filmmaking began in 2018 when I found myself on a movie set in Jakarta, Indonesia, assigned as a second camera assistant, with no prior knowledge or formal training in set etiquette or filmmaking. The presence of highly experienced film production crews around me initially left me feeling quite nervous. However, this experience of being thrown into the field taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, self-reliance, and the importance of a problem-solving mindset.

Surrounded by seasoned professionals, I quickly realized that success in this industry often requires the ability to think on your feet and navigate unfamiliar terrain. It was a trial by fire that forced me to develop a “self-deduct” mindset, learning to find my way through challenges and achieve specific goals even in the face of uncertainty.

This formative experience remains with me as a constant reminder of the importance of adaptability and self-sufficiency in filmmaking. While teamwork and delegation are crucial in any project, I firmly believe in the value of maintaining an independent artist’s spirit. This mindset has not only guided me throughout my filmmaking journey but has also become an integral part of my approach to creating films and leading productions today. It serves as a testament to the idea that while collaboration is essential, one’s ability to take initiative and navigate uncharted territory is equally vital in the world of filmmaking.

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?

I am Martian Angjaya, an independent filmmaker hailing from Jakarta, West Java, Indonesia. My journey in the world of filmmaking is driven by a deep passion for using this medium to not only express myself but also to raise awareness about global, societal, and human issues. I find great satisfaction in translating complex emotions and sensations into captivating visuals that convey the mission of my clients while resonating with a shared target audience.

What distinguishes my approach from others is my unwavering dedication to crafting immersive cinematic worlds. I prioritize the action and scene blocking, believing that the heart of a compelling story lies in the performances and interactions of the characters. For me, it’s crucial that my actors fully embody their roles, as this authenticity is the cornerstone of a truly impactful film. This emphasis on the core elements of storytelling, sometimes even above lighting and camera movement, is a deliberate choice that I believe sets the stage for exceptional results in the editing room.

I acknowledge that the subtle nuances of a scene can lead to profound effects on the audience, even if these effects are initially subconscious. Over time, I’ve developed a keen eye for these “unseen” elements and learned to fine-tune them to elevate the quality of my projects. It’s this commitment to continuous improvement and an unwavering dedication to storytelling that I bring to every film I create.

In essence, I see filmmaking as a dynamic art form where each frame and every moment matters. It’s my mission to craft films that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact, and I believe that this dedication to the craft is what fuels my work as an independent filmmaker.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Throughout my time in film school, my unwavering focus was always on the art of directing. I became known among my peers as the “director classmate” due to my unrelenting passion for this craft. I went above and beyond, often taking extra production slots to shoot more projects than were required, all driven by my deep love for filmmaking.

However, as I navigated the transition from the academic world to the professional realm, I came to a crucial realization. Fresh out of university, directing opportunities were limited, and it became apparent that there was much more to the filmmaking industry than just directing. I understood that the roles closely intertwined with the director—such as those in the camera department, art department, and post-production—were vital and offered valuable learning experiences.

From that pivotal moment to the present, my journey has been dedicated to honing my skills comprehensively. This encompasses not only the technical aspects of camera work and editing but also the creative realms of storytelling, scriptwriting, and storyboarding. I’ve made it my mission to stay sharp and seasoned, recognizing the importance of being well-rounded in this industry.

This evolution has allowed me to offer a broader range of services to clients, understanding that while directing remains my core passion, a deep understanding of all facets of filmmaking enriches my ability to contribute to projects in various capacities. In essence, I continue to prepare myself for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in my filmmaking journey.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

To bring peace and answers to the people who are in need.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://martianangjaya.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianangjaya/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martian-angjaya-460655188/