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Conversations with Yesser Laham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yesser Laham.

Yesser Laham

Hi Yesser, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started when I decided to study film. I’ve always been passionate about film, and the world of cinema- ever since I was little. So, I started my master’s degree in filmmaking back in 2014. I went to the New York Film Academy, Abu Dhabi, where I learned the craft of writing, directing, and acting. As well as other skills from pitching ideas, film analysis, producing, and production designs among other areas. Upon completing my first year, I transferred to Los Angeles to finish the program and obtain my Master’s degree; and that’s when my journey started.

We’d love to learn more about your work. What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I’d be lying if I said it’s been a smooth road. I feel like when you’re just starting your journey, a lot of people, especially those who’ve been doing it for a while, don’t really take you seriously. Without enough credits under your belt and being too enthusiastic about creating something new, there will be some naysayers. It’s a dog-eat-dog world. Some of the stuff they’d do or say could discourage you or dim your light and kill your drive if you’re not strong enough to handle it. With that said- however, I was fortunate enough to surround myself with like-minded people who were creatives as well. We kept pushing and motivating each other. It’s safe to say that every profession has its own obstacles along the way. But it’s a whole different kind when you’re an artist.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a writer, actor, and film director. During my second year of studying film, I wrote my first feature-length film “Landfill”, that I went on to direct as well. It’s now out on different streaming platforms for people to see. That’s what I would say I’m known for. Finishing what I started would be what I’m most proud of. To have my first feature film written, shot and completed despite the hiccups and obstacles along the way. Also, to have actress Linda Blair write me a long email expressing how much she enjoyed reading my script, and how she thought it was an original idea, was another proud moment for me. It reminded me why I’m doing what I’m doing in the first place, and gave me some much-needed reinforcement. With my first feature under my belt, I’m currently working on a couple of new feature scripts, as well as a TV show, that are all different in genre and style than my first feature film.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Staying true and authentic to myself as an artist is a very important aspect when telling a story. Moreover, determination and perseverance. I feel like I learned something kind of new about myself throughout my journey- the more obstacles I faced, the more stubborn I got. In a sense that I was going to be bigger than those obstacles and overcome them all and still succeed. Nothing or no one was going to stand in the way of me finishing what I started. Giving up was not an option. That mindset kept me going.

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Image Credits
Mick Toft Ryan Manuel Zachary Perlow Rubén Tomás

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