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

Noah , appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

The short answer is yes! I’m very happy working as a filmmaker. My job mixes art, storytelling, and even a little bit of business. I find it incredibly fulfilling creatively, especially when I’m lucky enough to work on a project I love or feel is important. But, I do often wonder what it would be like to have a more traditional job. Working in film usually means unpredictable schedules, timelines, and contract negotiations, and can sometimes be metaphorically feast or famine when it comes to the availability of work. I do sometimes crave the stability of a traditional workplace environment and fantasize about what a life like that might look like. But I think those feelings are a normal part of working in this industry. Over the years I’ve made an effort to embrace the uncertainty of this industry and value it for the opportunities and experiences it brings. At the end of the day, I feel privileged to be making a living working as a filmmaker, creating my own schedule, and collaborating with other incredible artists and filmmakers.

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.

I’ve always loved telling stories and entertaining people. When I was younger I was a bit of a class clown, and as I got older I started to explore filmmaking as a creative outlet and a way to make my friends laugh. Filmmaking gave me a means to take my silly ideas and stories and bring them to life. I had so much fun making short videos with friends, but I never saw it as a viable career path. In college, I discovered that making videos for people and businesses paid better than my on-campus job and was more fun, too. I began working as a freelance filmmaker, and I just kind of never stopped. After some encouragement from my loved ones and some luck with a few early short films that I directed, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue filmmaking as a career. I now work as both an independent filmmaker and as a director/editor for television and commercial work. My commercial and TV work pays the bills and helps support the independent projects that I do. It’s been difficult balancing the independent side of filmmaking and also working full time as a freelancer, but I feel very lucky to have a foot in both worlds and to work with great colleagues.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of working in a creative field, particularly as a filmmaker, is discovering unique and compelling stories. As a documentary filmmaker, I’ve had the privilege of delving into a wide range of subjects, and it’s always incredibly satisfying to discover the heart of a story and share it with an audience in a meaningful way. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is knowing that the stories I help tell have the potential to resonate deeply with others and, in some cases, inspire positive change. For instance, my documentary “Strangers to Peace” tells the stories of three former child soldiers in Colombia who took part in the Colombian conflict. I’m very proud of the film not only for the stories we were able to tell, but also because it has helped spark conversations about peace and reconciliation post conflict among audiences, and has been used as a teaching tool in classrooms, governmental organizations, and peace studies programs. These moments of impact, both big and small, reaffirm my passion for filmmaking and the power of storytelling.

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

While I wouldn’t necessarily label my work as having a singular mission, I’ve always been drawn to certain themes and narratives that have consistently guided my creative journey. One of the recurring motifs in my work is the exploration of individuals and communities residing on the fringes of society. I have an enduring fascination with the stories of outsiders, the unheard voices, and the overlooked narratives that often exist outside the spotlight. While it may not be a formal mission statement, this theme has become an intrinsic part of my creative compass, influencing the subjects and projects I choose to pursue.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.noahdebonis.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahdebonis/
• Other: www.strangerstopeace.com

Image Credits
Jared Wade