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

Mateus, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Filmmaking involves various elements such as storytelling, visuals, sound, acting, and editing. While theory certainly plays a role in understanding the principles and techniques behind filmmaking, the practical aspect is often more crucial in the creative process. I have always focused on studying, but I really learned the most when I was given the chance to be on a set. There’s no where to run when you’re working, so you have to challenge yourself and try your best.

Therefore, theory undoubtedly had its place in my experience in filmmaking as a guiding framework, it was the practical experience of making films that truly honed my skills and allowed for personal growth and artistic development. Filmmaking is an art form that thrives on practice, collaboration, problem-solving, and learning from mistakes, all of which are best cultivated through hands-on experience.

Mateus, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I began my academic journey by pursuing International Relations and Foreign Trade in college, where I gained a solid understanding of global affairs and international business. However, my true passion was always directed towards cinema, so I decided to explore the world of filmmaking.

I then embarked on various courses related to cinema, honing my skills and expanding my knowledge of the craft. These courses provided me with a theoretical foundation, while my practical experiences in making short films allowed me to apply what I had learned. After a while, I made the decision to further specialize in my passion for cinema. As a result, I enrolled in a master’s degree program in screenwriting and directing

Nowadays, I am able to balance my time between making films and working in the film festival industry, Through my involvement in various capacities, I gained insights into the selection and presentation of films, fostering my ability to recognize and appreciate quality filmmaking.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to use the power of storytelling to explore diversity and evoke emotional responses in people through art.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Cinema is a collaborative art that relies on working with talented individuals who share similar interests. Knowing the right people within the industry can lead to opportunities and growth. Supporting your colleagues and fostering a collaborative environment is essential for success in the film industry. Networking is crucial in the film industry, as it opens doors to opportunities, collaborations, and access to valuable resources. Building a strong network helps filmmakers connect with like-minded professionals, stay informed about industry trends, and create a supportive community.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @mateushueb

Image Credits
Festival photos by Marcos Daniel Ferreira