Entertainment
Interview with Serkan Aktaş: Exploring the Art of Filmmaking
Serkan Aktaş, born on December 4, 1989, in Istanbul, Turkey, is an award-winning filmmaker globally recognized for his contributions to the genres of fantasy and science fiction cinema. He holds degrees in Business Administration from Anadolu University and in Mathematics from Dokuz Eylül University. Aktas honed his filmmaking skills at the Istanbul Cinema Academy, where he graduated with distinction. He also earned a Master’s and a Doctorate in Film and Television from Beykent University. His notable works include films like The Librarian (2022), Mirrorty (2017), and Resurrection under the Ocean (2021), which have been acclaimed in film festivals around the world.
Q: Tell me about your filmmaking journey and what initially drew you to this career path?
Serkan Aktaş: My filmmaking journey began at the age of 16, when I had a life-changing experience watching Hokkabaz, a Turkish film, with my older brother. Until then, I had always been drawn to films, watching them on DVD or CD for hours. But watching Hokkabaz on the big screen opened my eyes to cinema in a completely new way. It was a revelation. I felt a deep, undeniable connection to the art form, and that night, I decided I would become a writer and director. It was a moment that set the course for everything that followed.
Though I initially pursued a more analytical path, earning degrees in Business Administration and Mathematics, my passion for filmmaking was never far behind. I sought to deepen my understanding and sharpen my creative instincts at the Istanbul Cinema Academy, where I graduated with distinction. Later, I went on to complete both a Master’s and a Doctorate in Film and Television from Beykent University. These academic experiences gave me the tools to transform my ideas into cinematic realities, but it was my insatiable curiosity and my belief that the best films are those that stand the test of time that truly shaped my journey.
For me, the essence of filmmaking lies in the desire to evoke joy, wonder, and thought in the audience. As I continued to create, films like The Librarian (2022), Mirrorty (2017), and Resurrection under the Ocean (2021) became platforms for me to address real-world issues through the lens of fantasy and science fiction. Cinema, for me, is not just entertainment; it’s a way to challenge the status quo, to open minds, and to spark conversations.
I’ve always believed in the power of discipline in the creative process—reading, watching, and writing every day. This daily rhythm keeps me grounded and sharp, ensuring that I continue to push boundaries and explore new ideas. My goal has always been to share the same excitement and curiosity that cinema has given me, hoping that, through my work, others can experience the same sense of awe and wonder. Ultimately, filmmaking is a way for me to contribute to solving the world’s unsolved problems, whether through direct commentary or through the rich narratives that challenge audiences to think beyond the surface.
As the most awarded filmmaker in Turkey, I find the greatest reward in knowing that my films have an impact on people. Each time someone experiences my work, whether they feel inspired, moved, or challenged, I feel I’ve achieved my purpose. My journey is far from over, and I’m eager to continue exploring the infinite possibilities of fantasy and science fiction, always in pursuit of creating meaningful stories that make a difference.
Q: What are a few films that have significantly influenced your creative style?
Serkan Aktaş: Several films have had a profound influence on my creative style, especially those that explore the limitless possibilities of fantasy and science fiction. These genres resonate deeply with me, as they offer a canvas where imagination and intellectual curiosity can roam free.
Serkan Director
Films like Being John Malkovich (1999) and Groundhog Day (1993) are especially impactful. They take simple, often surreal concepts and use them to explore profound existential questions. Being John Malkovich twists reality in a way that forces us to reconsider human existence and identity, while Groundhog Day uses the time loop to examine the potential for personal transformation. Both films exemplify how fantasy can serve as a gateway to engage with complex philosophical ideas while still offering entertainment and wonder. These films taught me the power of blending mind-bending ideas with compelling narratives, a practice I try to bring to my own work.
On the other hand, films like Dark City (1998) and Pitch Black (2000) represent the darker, more gritty side of science fiction, where human survival and the unknown are tested in environments that defy the laws of nature and reality. These films challenge the viewer’s understanding of the world and push the boundaries of what is possible in storytelling. Their exploration of existential and philosophical themes within a sci-fi framework deeply resonates with me, particularly in how they balance complex ideas with gripping, atmospheric worlds.
As a mathematician, I am drawn to the abstract nature of sci-fi and fantasy. Concepts like fractals—the Mandelbrot set, the Julia set, and the Sierpiński triangle—represent the beauty of infinite complexity emerging from simple principles. Similarly, these genres allow me to create intricate, boundless worlds. They satisfy my intellectual curiosity and provide a space where I can merge abstract mathematical ideas with rich, imaginative storytelling. These films have significantly shaped how I approach both the form and content of my work, encouraging me to think beyond the ordinary and craft stories that explore infinite possibilities.
Q: How do you approach collaborating with actors to achieve the best performance?
Serkan Aktaş: When it comes to collaborating with actors, I believe in building a strong, personal connection before stepping onto the set. I strive to be a friend—especially a best friend—to the actors I work with. I spend time with them outside of the rehearsal process, just hanging out and getting to know each other on a deeper level. This approach, which I learned from a book about Quentin Tarantino and his work on Pulp Fiction, has proven to be incredibly effective.
Q: Describe your process for developing a shot list and how you utilize storyboards to visualize scenes?
Serkan Aktaş: My process for developing a shot list is a bit unconventional, as I prefer photoshoots over traditional storyboarding. Before the set, my Director of Photography (D.O.P.), a few actors, and I work together on a photoshoot for every scene in the actual locations where we will be shooting, frame by frame. I find this approach to be more effective than storyboarding because it allows me to visualize every detail of the scene and ensures that I don’t miss anything in the script. After the photoshoot, I turn the images into a catalog or booklet, which serves as a practical guide for the shoot. This method makes it easier to follow the scenes and gives me a clear visual reference to work from. It also helps me feel more relaxed and confident before stepping onto the set, knowing that I’ve already visualized each moment in detail.
Q: How do you stay updated on new filmmaking technologies and incorporate them into your projects?
Serkan Aktaş: I stay updated on filmmaking technologies by researching industry trends, attending conferences, and connecting with other filmmakers. When incorporating new technologies into my projects, I focus on how they enhance the narrative and viewer experience. However, as an independent filmmaker, I face the challenge of limited budgets, which can make it difficult to incorporate expensive technologies. While I may not always have access to the latest tools, I try to use available resources creatively, finding ways to incorporate new techniques within the constraints of my budget. My focus is always on serving the story, and I look for cost-effective solutions that can still bring the desired impact.
Q: What is your approach to handling unexpected challenges that may arise during filming?
Serkan Aktaş: I believe that when unexpected challenges arise, the key is to come up with the problem and try to find a new way to solve it. Every problem has a solution. Stay calm, be patient, and think that you will find a way to solve it. A good example of this was during the production of The Librarian. It was my doctorate film project, and I had to complete it to finish my degree. However, the realities of filmmaking, especially in independent cinema, proved to be much more complicated than I had anticipated.
The biggest challenge was a tight budget, compounded by the pandemic. Many exterior scenes in the script were written before COVID-19, but due to health restrictions and local authorities’ refusal to grant permission for outdoor shoots, I was unable to film them as planned. To make matters more complicated, just 10 days before filming began, I had a significant disagreement with both the cast and crew. This led to the difficult decision of letting go of key members, which left me with very little time to rebuild the team and get the production back on track.
Despite all these obstacles, I remained determined not to give up. I decided that waiting for the pandemic to end could mean losing the entire project, so I chose to adopt a guerrilla filmmaking approach for the exterior scenes. With a small, dedicated team, we shot those scenes quickly, without formal permissions. While it was far from ideal, the feedback from both audiences and critics showed that those guerrilla-style shots ended up being some of the most impactful moments in the film.
This experience taught me that perseverance, patience, and adaptability are key in overcoming the unexpected challenges that arise during production. When things don’t go as planned, it’s important to stay calm, think creatively, and keep moving forward.
Q: If you were to direct this film, what are the key themes you would want to highlight?
Serkan Aktaş: If I were to direct this film, the key theme I would want to highlight is the importance of collaboration, particularly with the Director of Photography (D.O.P.) and the First Assistant Director (1st AD). These two roles are absolutely essential for bringing the story to life. While every element of a film and every person on set must be perfect, for me, the D.O.P. and 1st AD are like my left and right arms. They are crucial in shaping the vision and flow of the production.
I’ve noticed that many directors who are very successful tend to work with the same D.O.P. and 1st AD, because over time, they develop a mutual understanding and a strong sense of communication. They talk to each other, understand each other’s vision, and know how to work in harmony. This synergy allows the director to focus on the creative aspects of the film, knowing that these key team members will execute the logistics and visuals in alignment with the story. Collaboration is at the heart of filmmaking, and these two roles, for me, are at the core of that process.
Q: What unique elements would you bring to a project to make it stand out?
Serkan Aktaş: To make this project stand out, I would bring my unique perspective as both a mathematician and a filmmaker, blending analytical thinking with creative storytelling. I’ve always been drawn to the beauty of patterns and structures, especially in the realms of fantasy and science fiction, and I believe this allows me to approach storytelling in a way that others might not. By incorporating abstract concepts, like fractals or mathematical structures, into the narrative and visual style, I can create a film that feels fresh and intellectually stimulating.
In addition, my focus on creating timeless films, the kind that can be watched repeatedly with new layers of meaning revealed each time, would be another unique element. I aim to craft stories that engage both emotionally and intellectually, offering the audience more than just entertainment—they would walk away with something to reflect on. The emotional resonance and depth of the story, combined with visually innovative techniques, would help this project stand out in a crowded film landscape.
Lastly, I believe in the power of collaboration, and the strength of having a solid team that understands the vision. My approach to working closely with my D.O.P. and 1st AD, creating a synergy where we all work towards a common goal, would be essential in ensuring that this film is both a creative and technical success. It’s all about pushing boundaries, telling unique stories, and creating experiences that stay with the audience long after the credits roll.
Q: Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?
Serkan Aktaş: My next project is Kanlısırt – The Blood Ridge, a feature film that I’m both writing and directing. The script is already completed, and the story is set during the intense Battle of Gallipoli in World War I, focusing on the brutal confrontation between the Turkish and British forces at Blood Ridge (Kanlısırt). As Turkey’s most awarded filmmaker, I aim for this film to become the highest-grossing film in the country, targeting 13.5 million viewers. I believe that a filmmaker with such recognition should also aim to create the most widely watched film, and that’s exactly what I’m working towards with this project.
Social Media Contact Addresses
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14575507/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/serkan-aktas-a12463260/
https://www.themoviedb.org/person/4089513-serkan-aktas
https://filmfreeway.com/SerkanAktas
https://letterboxd.com/director/serkan-aktas/
There’s a new wave rising out of Birmingham, and it isn’t following anyone’s blueprint. It’s being written, sung, shaped, and completely owned by The Ladies of SRJR Productions: Chay Crews (Chay Butta), Donna Ingram (Lady D), LaCindra McGowan (Sweet Lou), and the forever honored Andrea Carlisle (Drea’ C).
A singing group built on soul, strength, testimony, and truth, SRJR isn’t just harmonizing. They are healing communities, empowering women, and redefining what modern, women-led vocal artistry looks and feels like. They aren’t simply making music. They’re creating moments, building messages, and crafting a sound that comes from real life, real loss, and real love.
WHERE THEIR VOICES MEET, MAGIC HAPPENS
SRJR is not your typical girl group. They never intended to be. They are a blend of lived experiences, spiritual depth, Birmingham grit, and a bond of sisterhood so thick you can hear it before they even open their mouths.
Chay Butta brings the fire: sharp, fierce, and electric.
Lady D delivers the heart: warm, emotional, and grounding.
Sweet Lou carries the soul: deep, rich, and unforgettable.
And Drea’ C’s legacy is the air between every harmony they build: present, powerful, eternal.
Together, they create a sound that feels like truth. Warm, fearless, textured, and unapologetically theirs. A vocal chemistry that can’t be taught, only lived. Their connection is the kind that transforms a performance into an experience. One that leaves audiences feeling seen, soothed, and stirred.
A VOCAL STYLE THAT HITS DIFFERENT
SRJR’s music moves with purpose, intention, and emotional weight. Their harmonies glide from smooth and silky to bold and commanding, layering warmth, grit, softness, and attitude all in the same breath. Their tone blends southern soul, gospel roots, R&B richness, and modern storytelling, creating a sound that feels handcrafted rather than manufactured.
Their performances resonate because they come from real stories: stories of family, adversity, community, womanhood, prayer, and resilience. Every note they sing has lived inside them long before it reaches the microphone. Every lyric reveals another piece of who they are and what they’ve overcome.
For SRJR, this is not just singing. It is testimony set to melody. Their music is a reminder that pain can be turned into power, and that harmony is created not just in voices but in shared journeys.
A GROUP THAT SINGS FOR THE PEOPLE
Ask SRJR what their mission is, and their answer always stands taller than the music.
“We want people to see themselves in the stories we create.”
Their songs uplift Black and brown communities, inspire young dreamers, and remind women everywhere that their voices are powerful and necessary. They sing to encourage, to comfort, to empower, and to remind people that they are not alone.
Their artistry is heartfelt. Their message is intentional. Their impact is lasting, long after the last note fades. They are the kind of group whose words linger in the mind and whose harmonies touch the spirit.
CARRYING LEGACY IN EVERY NOTE
Drea’ C may no longer be here physically, but her presence is woven into every rehearsal, every stage moment, and every vocal blend. Her energy guides them. Her influence shapes them. Her spirit lifts them.SRJR rises because of her, sings because of her, and honors her each time their voices unite. That devotion gives the group a depth and emotional weight you can feel even without knowing their full story a legacy that does not dim, only grows stronger with every performance.
THE NEXT CHORUS IS THEIR BIGGEST YET
With new music in the works, expanding audiences, and momentum that grows with every performance, The Ladies of SRJR Productions are stepping confidently into a spotlight they built with their own hands. They aren’t trying to fit into the industry’s mold. They are creating their own harmony: bold, soulful, authentic, and beautifully unified.
From Birmingham to every stage they touch, SRJR carries one message forward: Three voices rising. One legacy honored. Infinite impact. And their sound is only getting louder.
OFFICIAL PLATFORM
Their official YouTube channel, featuring music, performances, and creative releases:
https://youtube.com/@
When you first land on The Megamynd’s website or listen to his debut single “Tonight,” what strikes you most is duality — the kind of contrast that feels carefully crafted, emotionally honest, and boldly ambitious. Born in Baltimore and now based in Atlanta, The Megamynd is carving out a lane in modern music that blends vulnerability and swagger, melancholy and energy.
The Megamynd fuses his Baltimore roots with an Atlanta upbringing, channeling those life experiences into a “genre-fluid” sound that’s emotionally raw and musically experimental. His stage name is no accident — it’s a nod to the DreamWorks character Megamind, whose journey from villain to hero mirrors the artist’s own story of transformation.
Signature Sound: Cinematic Rockstar Trap
If you had to label his music, “cinematic rockstar trap” comes closest. But even that feels too simple. His work weaves together:
Trap: hard-hitting beats and unpredictable flow.
R&B: soulful, sometimes melancholic melodies.
Futuristic synths: atmospheric textures that evoke movies or late-night thoughts.
This wasn’t pulled out of thin air: The Megamynd cites major influence from Playboi Carti, Yeat, and Ken Carson — artists known for pushing boundaries in trap and melodic rap.
Debut Single: “Tonight”
Released on November 7, 2025, “Tonight” is more than just a song — it’s an introduction into The Megamynd’s world. The track is cinematic in its construction: emotionally charged, filled with tension, and heavy with the uncertainty of a fleeting night.
In interviews, he describes the inspiration behind “Tonight” as capturing that seductive, in-between moment — the pull of attraction, the haze of a night out, and the question of whether what’s happening is real or just temporary. According to commentary, the production rides between smooth R&B and bold trap shifts, underscoring his talent for balancing vulnerability with bravado.
A Distinct Visual Identity
His artistry doesn’t stop at the music. The Megamynd’s visual identity is deeply considered: he blends rockstar aesthetics with business-casual streetwear, creating a look that’s polished and edgy at the same time. Recurring colors — blue, black, and gold — reinforce his brand as someone who is confident yet reflective, refined yet rebellious.
Personality & Passions
Beyond the stage, The Megamynd is multidimensional. On his site, he reveals personal interests that give fans a fuller sense of who he is: he’s into video games, anime, and — unexpectedly — lobster and steak. This mix of passions aligns with his creative vision: playful, thoughtful, and unafraid to defy expectations.
He also approaches his growth with a DIY mindset — determined to build his own path rather than follow a pre-made one. He’s focused on crafting meaningful music, engaging authentically with fans, and growing a brand that’s as emotionally resonant as it is stylistically bold.
Why He Matters
Genre Innovation: In a music landscape that often leans into formula, The Megamynd’s sound feels fresh, cinematic, and deeply personal.
Authentic Identity: He doesn’t hide behind persona; his name, visuals, and stories all connect in a meaningful way.
Emotional Storytelling: His music isn’t just about beats or flex — it’s about longing, introspection, and human connection.
What’s Next?
Right now, “Tonight” is just the beginning. According to his site, he’s laying the foundation for a larger catalog filled with emotionally driven, sonically experimental music. As he builds his presence, he’s also leaning into content creation, brand-building, and consistent engagement — all part of his plan to grow organically.
The Megamynd is an emerging artist who doesn’t just make music — he builds worlds. With his cinematic trap style, thoughtful visuals, and clear sense of identity, he’s someone to watch closely. If “Tonight” is any indication, his journey has only just begun.
Follow The Megamynd
At Leonard Magazine, we spotlight leaders who don’t just talk about success—they live through the doubt, the fatigue, and the uncertainty, and still choose to keep going. When we discovered Manuel Aragon’s blog, “Becoming a Champion: Adopting the Winning Mentality to Mold Leaders,” we found exactly that kind of story.
Manuel is the founder of Aragon Tax Return Services, but his journey starts far from spreadsheets and tax codes. It begins with honesty and authenticity you don’t see often:
“Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs at us when we least expect it. Unexpected changes in life, or just the everyday uncertainties of life can make staying motivated very challenging. I’m not motivated every day; if anything I lost a sense of direction over the past year. I’m tired and exhausted but still I’m building towards a much bigger vision. Uncertainty can be scary but I never lose focus on the long term goals.”
That vulnerability sets the tone for everything that follows—both in his life and in his business.
Embracing the Challenge
Manuel explains that the first step is accepting that uncertainty is a natural part of life. Instead of letting the unknown paralyze him, he focuses on removing the emotional noise and making logical decisions:
“It’s an opportunity to test myself in the chaos. It’s like shooting practice in the gym. The crowd isn’t around, just hard work and dedication.”
That image—quiet practice, no spotlight, just repetition and discipline—captures the mentality behind Aragon Tax Return Services. Much of the work his firm does for clients is behind the scenes, but it’s foundational: protecting their finances, bringing clarity to their numbers, and helping them plan for what’s next.
Manuel draws deeply from the mindset of Michael Jordan, keeping quotes in his office as daily reminders. One of his favorites:
“My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength.”
This isn’t just a slogan for him; it’s a strategy. Whether it’s a complex tax situation, a tough season in life, or the pressure of leadership, the goal is the same: turn pressure into growth.
Chasing Greatness, Not Just “Good Enough”
Manuel reflects on his ability to adapt and stay true to himself—whether he’s in a boardroom “wearing my Jordans and a hoodie” or working quietly behind the scenes. Leadership, he notes, means being exposed when mistakes happen:
“My dad always said when you climb the ladder you leave your backside exposed for the world to see when you stumble.”
Instead of letting that fear hold him back, Manuel chooses not to look down—only up. He focuses on improving how he uses his time, educating himself, and doing work that’s genuinely impactful for the people around him.
He writes:
“Achieving greatness is not predetermined by fate; it is a decision we make. We each have the option to strive to uncover and express our individual greatness. Chasing greatness results in leading a meaningful life.”
That same philosophy shows up in how he runs Aragon Tax Return Services: don’t settle for average, don’t just “get by,” and don’t treat taxes as a once-a-year chore. Treat your finances as part of your legacy.
Staying Grounded While Aiming Higher
Manuel also opens up about isolation and growth. During uncertain times, he shares that he didn’t always want to be around friends, family, or support groups—but he recognized the need to break that pattern and face growth head on.
He looks to leaders like Kobe Bryant for that extra push:
“Pain doesn’t tell you when you ought to stop. Pain is the little voice in your head that tries to hold you back because it knows if you continue, you will change.”
That line could apply to a tough workout, a difficult tax season, or a major life transition. For Manuel, it’s all connected: personal growth, leadership, and service to his clients.
He also points to inspiration beyond sports, like Malala Yousafzai: “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” In that same spirit, Aragon Tax Return Services isn’t just about compliance. It’s about equipping people—especially those who may feel overlooked—to build something lasting.
For readers who want to go beyond the article and connect with the person who has actually walked through uncertainty, fatigue, rebuilding, and growth:
Connect with Manuel personally:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manuelaragon_aragontaxreturnservices/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/manuel.aragon.5264
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-aragon-26084187
- Visit Aragon Tax Return Services: www.AragonTaxReturnServices.com
Behind his mindset is a business built to serve real people with real financial needs.
If you’re reading this and you’re tired, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next financial move—you’re not alone. Manuel has been there. He’s felt the exhaustion, the doubt, and the pressure to keep everything together. And he’s turned that experience into a commitment: to show up for others with honesty, clarity, and real support.
If you’re ready to bring a champion’s mentality to your finances, your business, or your family’s future, Aragon Tax Return Services is a great fit to walk that path with you—not from a distance, but side by side.
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Unpacking The Megamynd: A Cinematic Visionary Rising in Trap
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