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

Shaun , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

The very first money I earned in the film industry was as an “Extra” or background artist through Central Casting. I was in my early 20’s and already writing and creating my own short films, filming music videos for friends but this was the first Hollywood set I’d ever been on. I got very lucky to have a mentor when I first moved to Los Angeles tell me, if you really want to become a filmmaker then get yourself on set however you can. No matter what the job is, just get the set experience. He also said to look at those opportunities as an education. So, I signed up to become an extra and packed a notebook and pencil. I did the background work for just around a year, took notes whenever I could, treated it like a “paid” education, even earned my SAG card and never looked back.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve now been in the film industry for almost 25 years! I’ve done everything from acting, writing, stunts, stunt coordination, editing, visual effects and of course directing. My passion for telling creative, fun and heartfelt stories is what has driven me to never give up over the years, through ups and downs.

To date I’ve had the honor of directing 11 feature films, 3 tv series and a variety of other projects including commercials, music videos and web series. Six of my movies being on Netflix. Among these, three have achieved global recognition: “A California Christmas” and its sequel, “City Lights,” both topped Netflix’s global charts, while “That’s Amor” secured a spot in the top three worldwide, contributing to over 250 million hours viewed. Then “Holiday Harmony” on HBO Max, capturing a top three position globally, and my latest feature, “The Island,” which clinched the number one spot on Starz, marking it my fifth chart-topping movie.

I also been lucky enough to not just limited to directing; I love putting together action sequences, stunts, and visual effects. Some of my early credits include acting and directing roles on “Deadliest Warrior,” contributions to the “Call of Duty” franchise, and work on “Robot Chicken” series and Star Wars specials.

I work extremely hard but also count myself extremely blessed to have had such amazing experiences.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

To me, the best way to support artists across all mediums is simple: watch, listen, attend, just give it a chance. Far too often, art, films, and television are judged before they’re even finished or released to the public. In this information age, everyone’s voice can be broadcast to the masses, sometimes before a work has even had a fair opportunity to be experienced.

It’s important for people to have their own opinions, even those with professional credits, but I encourage everyone to give projects a chance and form your own perspective. When it comes to movies, I sympathize with the immense, often years-long effort that goes into creating a single film or season of television. To dismiss something, or not even give it a chance, based on what you read online or saw on social media feels like a missed opportunity.

Let’s support the artists and the human stories they bring to life, their triumphs, their struggles, and their vulnerability. They pour their blood, sweat, and tears into the work for our entertainment, enjoyment, and catharsis. That’s worth at least a chance. In my humble opinion.

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

I’ve had to pivot numerous times in this industry just to stay afloat. Another one of my mentors once told me, “If you want to make it in this business, you’d better diversify or die.” That advice really stuck with me..

So over the years I’ve not turned down any job that got me on a set or had something to do with creating and or telling stories. If you take a look at my IMDb page, you’ll see credits across a wide range of departments. First and foremost, I was always focused on staying busy, but I also wanted to gain a deeper, more well-rounded understanding of what goes into creating films and TV shows.

I’ve shifted from acting to stunts, from editing to visual effects. I’ve directed commercials, music videos, and, of course, worked toward my ultimate goal of features and television. Along the way, I’ve held nearly every role you can imagine: PA, grip, AD, camera operator, extra—I’ve even taken on jobs outside the industry like personal training, working in restaurants, and even in a jewelry store.

So yes, I’ve pivoted quite a bit, but each shift has come with a purpose, all while staying focused on my unwavering dream of making movies

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.directorshaun.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directorshaunpiccinino/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-piccinino-2060aa8/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@piccininopictures
• Other: http://www.imdb.me/shaunpiccinino

Image Credits

photographer credit Gloria El-Achkar