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/
Some artists entertain. Others inspire. But every so often, a singular presence emerges—one who does both, and so much more. Leilani Kristina is that presence: a fearless creative, a truth-teller, and a living bridge between culture, art, and justice.
A true polymath in the modern age, Leilani is a published model, gifted singer-songwriter, dancer, and passionate Indigenous rights advocate. Her path is not just one of performance—it’s one of purpose. She isn’t simply chasing fame; she’s building a platform for expression, healing, and impact.
Ancestral Legacy, Artistic Fire
At the heart of Leilani’s artistic expression lies her deep-rooted Indigenous heritage. Her performances aren’t just acts of creativity—they’re acts of remembrance. In Nanyehi, a musical staged by Tulsa Theater, she portrayed Betsey Ward, a descendant of her own ancestor, Nancy Ward (Nanyehi), a revered Cherokee woman and peacekeeper. Sharing the stage with Hollywood icon Wes Studi, Leilani brought her family’s history to life in a way that was both emotional and empowering.
This wasn’t just a role—it was a reclamation. Through her portrayal, she honored the resilience of her lineage and connected her audience to stories often excluded from the mainstream narrative.
Runways with a Message
Leilani’s influence stretches far beyond the theater. On the catwalk, she brings her cultural pride and commanding presence to international fashion weeks in Milan, New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Her look is striking, but it’s the message behind the walk that truly sets her apart.
She doesn’t just model clothes—she models courage, authenticity, and representation. Leilani challenges narrow beauty standards by standing unapologetically in her identity. With each show, she redefines what it means to be seen and celebrated in an industry still learning how to embrace diversity.
A Sound that Speaks Volumes
In the music world, Leilani Kristina delivers more than catchy hooks—she delivers truth. Her original songs, distributed through United Masters, are rich with emotion and intention. Themes of strength, healing, love, and resistance pulse through every lyric, creating a soundscape that resonates deeply with listeners navigating their own struggles.
Her upcoming album promises even more depth, offering sonic experiences that serve as both refuge and rallying cry. Through her voice, Leilani isn’t just singing—she’s speaking directly to those who feel unheard.
Lights, Camera, Impact
Hollywood is beginning to recognize what audiences already feel: Leilani Kristina is a star in every sense. She’s performed at major industry events like the BET Awards Weekend and Big Game Weekend, capturing attention from influential circles in film and music. With auditions for high-profile roles such as Moana and Juliet in a musical adaptation, she’s poised for a breakout in film and television.
But Leilani’s rise in Hollywood isn’t about fitting in—it’s about breaking through. She represents the stories and voices that have long been missing from the screen. Her presence is not just refreshing—it’s necessary.
An Advocate First
Beyond the spotlight, Leilani is a powerful voice in advocacy. Drawing from her lived experience, she speaks on the realities of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and human rights abuses with rare honesty and conviction. Her activism is informed, urgent, and deeply personal.
Whether on stage, in interviews, or through her social media, Leilani uses every tool at her disposal to raise awareness and inspire action. She doesn’t seek attention—she seeks justice.
Defining Her Own Legacy
With representation by ADR Agency and Urge Management, Leilani Kristina continues to blaze her own trail—on her own terms. She’s not following trends or chasing validation. She’s telling stories, amplifying truths, and holding space for those often left out of the conversation.
Leilani isn’t just rising—she’s lifting others as she climbs.
To witness her journey and join her growing movement, follow her on Instagram: @lotus_pua
Because Leilani Kristina is more than a name.
She’s more than a performer.
She is a living movement—a beacon of culture, creativity, and change in a world hungry for all three.
In a musical era often consumed by clout and commercialism, Kyng Pariah steps onto the scene with something more enduring: truth. Not the kind filtered for algorithmic favor, but an abstract, spiritual, and fire-forged truth rooted in faith, pain, and purpose.
Keeping It Abstract, Keeping It Real
“I want to keep the abstractness in my sound and creativity—if that makes any sense to you like it does to me,” Kyng explains.
And it does make sense—for those listening with more than just their ears. His music isn’t designed to be overly polished or industry-molded. It’s made to breathe, to sting, to heal. Every beat carries his fingerprint, every lyric shaped by both chaos and clarity. His upcoming releases aren’t just albums; they’re experiences—spiritually charged expressions of survival, soul, and sound.
Vulnerability Meets Resilience
There’s no performance in Kyng’s pain. Just presence.
Balancing vulnerability and resilience isn’t a contradiction—it’s a calling. “My father always told me, ‘Never tell someone anything that will hurt you.’ So I don’t,” he shares. “But I still want people to know they’re not alone.”
This isn’t trauma for applause. It’s truth for connection. Kyng’s vulnerability is sacred—shared only to bridge, never to break.
Collaborations & Creative Alignment
When Kyng talks dream collabs—Tupac, Kendrick, Lupe, Pharrell, Nas—you understand his ethos. “It’s the poetry behind the human spitting the bars,” he says. “They redesigned Hip-Hop with intellect and soul.”
As founder of Team Dork Nation, Kyng takes collaboration seriously. “Authenticity, transparency, communication—those are my non-negotiables. The energy has to be right.”
This is art with intention, not ego.
The Message Behind the Music
Kyng doesn’t write from ego. He writes from spirit. Every track is a message in a bottle—reaching out to those who’ve battled doubt, trauma, identity, or silence.
His mission? To speak life into people who feel like outsiders. The misfits. The dreamers. The survivors. “It’s about the story behind the human who creates it,” he says. And Kyng’s story is one of redemption, resistance, and relentless faith.
Upcoming Releases to Watch:
- Brown Skin Kids – June 19, 2025
- Finna Trip – September 12, 2025
- F.A.F.O. Starter Pack – January 30, 2026
- God Given Gift 2 – TBA
Plus, new beats and visuals dropping monthly on YouTube @TeamDorkNation
“Kyng of Pariahs” – A Title Reimagined
“I’m the reject but the original design.”
That’s how Kyng defines the phrase “Kyng of Pariahs.” It’s not ego—it’s empowerment. A bold reclamation of identity. The “Y” in Kyng? That’s not just style. It stands for youthful spirit, eternal creativity, and nonconformity.
His identity holds duality—masculine and feminine energy, light and shadow, seriousness and play. It’s not a brand. It’s a movement.
Words for the Warriors
To every artist hustling through hardship, Kyng has this to say:
“Stay invested in your health—physical, mental, and emotional. Stay authentic. Allow yourself to forgive… especially yourself. Stay eager to learn and grow. Take time for yourself. You owe it to YOU to be great. You will achieve your goals. Don’t stop working—it’ll pay off. Be blessed.”
A Movement, not a Moment
In a world thirsty for something real, Kyng Pariah offers the Abstract Truth: Hip-Hop is still holy. Still healing. Still evolving. And with Kyng behind the mic, the genre’s future sounds spiritually raw, unapologetically Black, and beautifully fearless.
Stay tuned. The revolution is real—and it’s wearing a crown.
Follow the Movement
📺 YouTube: @TeamDorkNation
📱 Instagram / X / TikTok: @KyngPariah
🎧 Streaming Platforms: Coming Soon
The revolution is real — and it’s wearing a crown.
From modest beginnings in Augusta, Georgia, Curstin Andrews has carved out a name for himself in the competitive world of acting. Now based in Atlanta, this 25-year-old artist is not just building a career—he’s building a legacy.
Starting from the Ground Up
Curstin’s first foray into acting came in late 2022 when he stepped onto set life as a background extra. While these early roles were silent, they were far from insignificant. They gave him a front-row education in the rhythm of filmmaking, helping him absorb the nuance, discipline, and dedication it takes to thrive in the entertainment world.
By March 2023, Curstin was landing speaking roles—stepping out of the background and into the spotlight. With each new project, his sense of purpose grew clearer: storytelling through character is not just a passion but his calling.
Sharpening the Craft
Determined to evolve as a performer, Curstin began formal training at Mann Robinson Studios under the instruction of Dale Jennings. His journey continued under the guidance of respected acting coaches like Louis Stancil and Lucky Johnson, both of whom helped him refine his emotional range, presence, and authenticity on screen.
On-Screen Journey
From emotionally charged dramas to intense thrillers, Curstin’s growing résumé speaks to his versatility and drive.
🎬 Feature Films
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Pure Pain (Lead) – Directed by Toine South
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Trapoligy (Lead) – Directed by Micheal
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My Killer Ex-Girlfriend (Supporting) – Directed by Johnathan Milton
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Ryder The Movie (Supporting) – Directed by Jaloni Jackson
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Illijah (Supporting) – Now streaming on Tubi
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House of Hope (Supporting) – Directed by Marques Womack
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Additional credits: Twisted Love, Bottle Girl, Callie, Three the Hard Way, and more.
🎥 Short Films
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Who’s There (Lead) – Directed by Alexis Morrison
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Blooming Hearts (Supporting) – Directed by Jasmine Alexander
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Love on Delay (Supporting) – Directed by Jayla Re’Shon
📺 Television
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Ms. Pat Settles It – Co-starred in an episode by 495 Productions
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BMF (Season 3) – Stand-in role on STARZ
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The House & Collective Trust – Co-starred
📣 Commercial & Music Appearances
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Appeared in an Old Spice commercial as a prom-going teen
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Starred in Derrico’s music video Do Not Disturb
Beyond Acting: A Visionary with a Business Mindset
More than just a performer, Curstin is an entrepreneur in the making. He’s the founder of a film production company and has future plans to build a full-service studio. His mission? To create access for underrepresented voices and open doors for new talent across the South.
What’s Ahead
With fame looming, Curstin remains focused on the bigger picture. While he strives for A-list status, his deeper goal is to be a catalyst for change—both on and off the screen. Whether through impactful stories or mentorship, Curstin Andrews wants to shape a more inclusive and dynamic entertainment industry.
Curstin Andrews is not just acting—he’s architecting a future. From breakout roles in Illijah, House of Hope, and Blooming Hearts to his ambitious behind-the-camera pursuits, this rising star’s journey is just beginning. And it’s one the film world will want to follow closely.
Leilani Kristina: A Force of Art, Activism, and Ancestral Power
Kyng Pariah on Faith, Fire, and the Future of Hip-Hop
Curstin Andrews: Redefining Success in Film, One Role at a Time
NALA, 23-YEAR-OLD MILLIONAIRE WHO LIVES BY PASSION
NOMADS are changing the landscape of the music business
