Today we’d like to introduce you to Diliana Deltcheva.
Diliana, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As a Bulgarian immigrant and the daughter of Olympic gymnasts, my upbringing was immersed in performance, athleticism, and a strong competitive spirit. Growing up as an only child, I found joy in entertaining both myself and those around me. From a young age, I relished being the center of attention, showcasing my talents through various forms of storytelling: dance, song, and poetry recitals. With dreams of a future in entertainment, I aspired to captivate audiences with my creativity and ideas. At the age of 13, my life took a significant turn when my mother and I moved to the United States. Despite the uncertainty ahead, I held onto a deep sense of conviction that pursuing my interests would lead me to my rightful place in the world.
During my 15 years in Los Angeles, I’ve established myself in the film and media industry. As a writer, director, and producer, I’ve had the privilege of bringing both branded and narrative projects to fruition, collaborating with esteemed production companies, studios, and fellow creatives along the way.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As an artist, I’ve grappled with the challenge of cultivating patience while practicing and honing my skills, all while bridging the gap between my current abilities and my aspirational vision. Additionally, receiving feedback on my work presents an ongoing challenge, often becoming a battle with the ego. However, with age and experience, I’ve become more receptive to others’ thoughts while also growing more comfortable in staying firm in my own artistic vision.
In my role as a producer, I’ve encountered a myriad of ever-evolving challenges. From navigating logistical hurdles to staying ahead of industry trends, the demands are ceaseless, always providing valuable lessons along the way.
Anyone committed to the entertainment industry understands the inherent unpredictability, scrutiny, and vulnerability that come with the territory. Each day presents new obstacles and opportunities, so staying dedicated to this path a daily choice that demands a steadfast commitment to the long haul.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At the moment, I am pumped about “Yummy,” a psychological horror story centered around a new mother who develops an insatiable craving for her own child. I’m collaborating on this project with fellow filmmaker Alex Frnka, a talented writer and actress. Both of us have two little kids and find ourselves deeply immersed in the world of motherhood, making this narrative poignant. “Yummy” is an edgy, surreal, and suspenseful tale that delves beneath the surface to address postpartum issues that women often face alone. It’s my heartfelt tribute to mothers everywhere, a testament to their unwavering sacrifice and extraordinary strength.
I’m equally proud of my past works, including the feature film “1-800-HOT NITE” (2022) which I produced with Halfway Crooks Entertainment, currently streaming on Showtime. I directed the short films “BLUE MOON” (2022) and “SWEETHEART” (2021), both of which garnered recognition in several festivals. Additionally, you can find the comedy series “Marriage of Inconvenience” on Tubi, a project I co-directed with LGBTQ writer/director Jason Gaffney. A few years ago, I dipped my toes in the VR world as the producer of the interactive horror series “THE EXORCISM OF ALLIE FAY” (2020), which my husband Jack Gravina directed.
When it comes to my work, I prefer to emphasize what brings people together rather than what sets me apart. Filmmaking thrives on collaboration, and achieving the best results hinges on strong synergy and compatibility among team members.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My mentors are my peers—the actors, writers, directors, and producers who champion meaningful stories. From them, I glean valuable insights and wisdom. Always eager to support, I offer my expertise and connections to any project in need because I firmly believe that genuine and enduring connections in this industry are built on mutual encouragement and meaningful contributions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://diliana.squarespace.com
- Instagram: @diliana_deltcheva
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diliana-deltcheva-0152953b/
Image Credits
Jack Gravina
Cournee Brown
Dayne Malan
