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/
Before the crowds, the performances, and the growing recognition, Kemo Artist was simply a kid from East London with music running through his veins. Born Ackiem in South East London and raised in East London, Kemo’s introduction to music came long before he ever stepped into a recording booth. As a child, he watched his older sister and her boyfriend perform, often standing backstage and absorbing every moment. Occasionally, they would invite him on stage, unknowingly planting the seeds for what would later become his purpose. Those early experiences sparked something special. The name “Kemo” itself carries deep personal significance. Given to him by his grandmother as a shortened version of his real name, it quickly became more than a nickname. It became the identity that family, friends, and eventually supporters would come to know and respect.
Raised in a household filled with music, Kemo was exposed to a wide range of influences. His mother’s extensive collection introduced him to legendary artists across multiple generations and genres. From Michael Jackson’s timeless performances and Eminem’s vivid storytelling to the determination of 50 Cent, the creativity of Kanye West, the lyrical mastery of Lil Wayne, and the versatility of Drake and Chris Brown, Kemo studied greatness from every angle. Closer to home, UK icons like Skepta, Wiley, and Dizzee Rascal helped shape his understanding of the culture he was growing up in Music became more than entertainment it became education. During his school years, Kemo spent countless lunch breaks writing lyrics, recording grime tracks, and refining his craft. While the passion never faded, he initially viewed music as something he loved rather than something he could build a future around.
That perspective changed in 2019. Determined to take control of his destiny, Kemo made the decision to pursue music with complete focus and commitment. Years of preparation, practice, and personal growth suddenly had direction.The result was a sound that feels authentic, unapologetic, and deeply personal. His music reflects real life its victories, setbacks, lessons, and perseverance. Every record carries pieces of his story, making his catalog resonate with listeners who understand the struggle behind the success.
One of the biggest turning points in his artistic development came while recording a freestyle. In that moment, Kemo experienced what he describes as a creative breakthrough unlike anything he’d felt before. There were no distractions, no expectations, and no outside influence—just pure creativity flowing naturally. It was the moment he truly recognized the depth of his talent and the possibilities that lay ahead. Since then, Kemo has continued to elevate his career, earning opportunities that many independent artists spend years chasing. Among his proudest accomplishments is performing at the iconic O2 Arena, a milestone that solidified his place among a new generation of rising UK talent.
Yet behind every achievement lies a story of resilience. One of the most difficult chapters of Kemo’s life came with the loss of his aunt, someone he viewed as a mentor, confidant, and source of guidance. The loss left a lasting impact, forcing him to navigate one of life’s toughest realities.
Rather than allowing grief to silence him, he poured his emotions into his music. Writing became an outlet for healing. Every song became a journal entry. Every lyric became a way to process pain, preserve memories, and continue moving forward. Through music, Kemo found strength when he needed it most.
Now, with his highly anticipated project Don’t Quit 2 on the horizon, Kemo is entering a new chapter with greater purpose than ever before. The title alone reflects the message that has guided him throughout his journey: perseverance.
For Kemo Artist, success isn’t about avoiding adversity it’s about pushing through it. His message to listeners is clear: everyone faces setbacks, everyone encounters obstacles, and everyone experiences moments of doubt. What separates those who succeed is the decision to keep going when quitting feels easier.
His advice to upcoming artists remains refreshingly simple:
“Release the music and keep writing.”
No shortcuts. No gimmicks. No waiting for the perfect moment.
Just dedication, consistency, and belief in yourself.
As Kemo Artist continues building his legacy, one thing remains certain: his story is still being written. The journey continues, the vision grows stronger, and the mission stays the same.
No matter the challenge.
No matter the setback.
No matter the odds.
Don’t Quit.
Written by the Staff Team
@4everconnects
– DANK
E-Dee: From Kingston Roots to Hollywood Dreams
Born in Jamaica and driven by an unshakable passion for music and storytelling, E-Dee, also known as Yung E-Dee, is a rising force in the global reggae scene. Blending authentic roots reggae with modern influences, E-Dee has carved out a unique lane that reflects both his Caribbean heritage and his journey through the entertainment world in the United States. Beyond music, he has also pursued acting and filmmaking, bringing a multidimensional creative vision to his artistry. His work consistently highlights themes of perseverance, cultural pride, and ambition, making him one of the most compelling voices among the new generation of reggae artists.
E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”
Los Angeles, CA – May 26, 2026 – Rising reggae artist E-Dee (Yung E-Dee) has officially released his highly anticipated new single, “Young Legend,” now available on all major streaming platforms via Clarendon Records.
A heavy roots reggae track infused with authentic island energy, “Young Legend” tells the inspiring true story of E-Dee’s remarkable journey—from his humble beginnings in Jamaica to pursuing his dreams in Hollywood. The song captures the struggles, sacrifices, and determination required to overcome obstacles and transform vision into reality.
With its rich, soulful riddim and heartfelt storytelling, “Young Legend” delivers a powerful message of resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. E-Dee’s lyrical authenticity and commanding delivery make the track both deeply personal and universally relatable, resonating with listeners who appreciate conscious reggae music with a modern edge.
The single stands as a testament to E-Dee’s growth as an artist and his commitment to representing his roots while pushing boundaries in the global music landscape.
The official release date for “Young Legend” is Friday, May 29, 2026. The track is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube Music, and all major digital platforms.
With this release, E-Dee continues to solidify his place as a rising voice in reggae, inspiring a new generation to dream big, stay grounded, and embrace their journey.
Journalist: Can you share a moment in your basketball journey that truly shaped who you are as an athlete today?
I was cut from my high‑school team, which forced me to confront failure and rebuild. That summer I attended an unsigned‑seniors camp in Memphis (2008) and earned a partial scholarship to Lambuth University that same summer. Years later I played a season with Team London in the Euroleague (2020). Those setbacks and opportunities — plus the work ethic I developed — drove me to found Inspired Athletes, a skills‑development company built on relentless preparation and service to players.
Journalist: Every player has a signature mindset — what’s yours when stepping onto the court?
I stay calm and present. When the game gets chaotic I let missed shots and bad calls go immediately so I can focus on the next play. As a coach I bring a quiet confidence: we balance enjoyment with pushing limits, outwork and outthink opponents, and keep God first.
Journalist: What was the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?
Finding consistent gym space early on was a major obstacle. I overcame it by building relationships with facility owners and partners — for example, St. Paul Christian Academy and West Nashville Church provided reliable access for years. That persistence required personal sacrifice (less family and social time) but ultimately created stability for my programs.
Journalist: Who has influenced your game the most, and what lessons did they teach you?
My grandmother, Ann Marie Jones (a Memphis educator for 35+ years), was my greatest influence. She emphasized education, character, and discipline; after she passed on May 30, 2023 I’ve continued to live by those principles. Her encouragement helped launch Inspired Athletes (founded October 5, 2022) and inspired me to major in Education in college.
Journalist: How do you balance physical training, mental preparation, and personal life during the season?
I keep a strict schedule: up at 5:45 a.m. for long workouts (typically 3 hours), then handling business tasks — emails, calls and bookings. Coaching at the school level helps me stay grounded. I give myself Saturday evenings off to rest and prevent burnout, and I take holidays to spend time with family and friends.
Journalist: What part of your game are you focusing on improving right now, and why?
I’m expanding my coaching credentials and exposure: I accepted a role with Vanderbilt’s youth summer program with intent to join their staff full time. I’ve received multiple offers (25 total from different programs) and will decide this fall after summer evaluations. I’m focused on relationship building, learning from collegiate/overseas/NBA staff, and sharpening player development techniques to prepare athletes for scholarship opportunities. While also working with AAU and school programs
Journalist: Fans see the wins, but not always the grind — what does a “day in the life” look like for you during peak training?
Typical training days start 5:45–8:30 a.m. (season and off‑season), with workouts 5–6 days per week depending on schedule. I’m in the gym nearly every day and assist an adult league on Thursdays. After training I handle administration — emails, bookings, coaching prep — and take Zoom courses (e.g., Get In The Game 101) to advance my coaching knowledge. Scheduling is often booked months in advance.
Journalist: Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave on the sport and the next generation of players?
I want athletes to use sport as a pathway to education and character development. As assistant coach at Montgomery Bell Academy I’ve helped many players secure academic and athletic scholarships; I aim to scale that impact — coaching at the collegiate or NBA level, expanding Inspired Athletes internationally, and eventually owning a gym to serve underprivileged communities. Since founding Inspired Athletes I’ve trained over 650 athletes and aspire to grow into a CEO who creates opportunities beyond basketball.
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