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Daily Inspiration: Meet Reyhan Esen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Reyhan Esen.

Hi Reyhan , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My passion for art has been at the core of my life since childhood. What began with painting quickly evolved into theatre and screenwriting, shaping my deep-rooted interest in cinema. My belief in the power of storytelling has led me to view art not only as a form of expression but also as a transformative tool capable of altering perspectives and driving social change.

I began my career in theatre as an actress, director, and playwright. The discipline I gained from the performing arts, along with my passion for storytelling, naturally led me to the world of filmmaking. In March 2024, I wrote and directed my first short film, Mi-Yav. This experience allowed me to oversee every stage of the production process. The film was officially selected for several international festivals, including the Lift-Off Global Network First-Time Filmmaker Festival.

Currently, I am deepening my knowledge and expertise in film production. I aim to establish my own production company, creating impactful and socially relevant narratives. I strongly believe in the power of cinema to make the invisible visible, and I am committed to using this power to raise awareness and inspire change.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey in the arts and filmmaking has been anything but smooth. Like many creatives, I have faced challenges that tested my resilience, patience, and determination. One of the biggest obstacles has been navigating the industry as an emerging filmmaker—building connections, securing funding, and gaining recognition in a highly competitive field. Independent filmmaking, in particular, requires not only artistic vision but also strong leadership and problem-solving skills, as unexpected setbacks are inevitable.

Additionally, transitioning between different artistic disciplines— from theatre to film—came with its learning curve. While my background in the theatre gave me a strong foundation in storytelling and performance, mastering the technical aspects of filmmaking required continuous learning and adaptation. Managing the entire production process, from pre-production to post-production, was a challenge that pushed me to develop new skills and expand my creative approach.

Despite these struggles, each obstacle has reinforced my passion and commitment to storytelling. I see challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities for growth. Every setback has taught me something valuable, whether it’s finding creative solutions on set, adapting to unexpected circumstances, or pushing the boundaries of my artistic vision. These experiences have shaped me into a more versatile and determined filmmaker, ready to take on whatever comes next.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
If you’d like to learn more about my work, I am currently focusing on developing myself in film production, particularly in directing and producing. My area of expertise is primarily in production. People generally describe me as someone who is always creating, constantly working on new projects, and eager to experiment with different techniques. Occasionally, they notice that I push myself too hard, but for me, the most important thing is never giving up. If something I want doesn’t work out, I never hesitate to try again, even for the 100th time. I believe we must create our own opportunities, as they are not always presented to us automatically.

Instead of discussing what sets me apart from others, I think it’s more accurate to talk about the similarities I share with others. In this industry, I believe that those who are persistent, original, and passionate are the ones who stand out and attract attention.

What’s next?
Of course, I have plans for the future, but I tend to focus more on the present, as it drives me to take action rather than just dream. In the future, I aspire to become the best version of myself and to raise awareness through storytelling. I believe that cinema has the power to influence society in meaningful ways, and it is essential to use this power responsibly and effectively.

However, this requires a great deal of caution and professionalism. Therefore, one of my plans for the future is to continue my university education in the UK, where I am eagerly looking forward to receiving professional training in film production.

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