Today we’d like to introduce you to Vadym Shapran
Hi Vadym, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling – whether through writing, film, editing, or visuals. My journey began in Ukraine, where I studied Economics, but filmmaking was my true passion. I started as a video editor at StarLadder, one of the global leaders in the esports industry. Over time, I expanded my skills, directing and producing projects while refining my expertise in editing, production, and post-production.
In 2016, I shot Must Escape, a short film that gained international recognition and opened new opportunities for me. After moving to the United States, I built a career in commercials, music videos, and films, taking on various roles – from editor to director and producer. Over the years, I expanded into motion graphics, animation, and CGI, continuously evolving with the industry.
Today, I run Avision Media, a production company where I merge creativity with a strategic approach to storytelling. My diverse experience has given me a unique perspective on both the artistic and business sides of filmmaking. I’m always exploring new ways to push creative boundaries and bring fresh, compelling stories to life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It wasn’t a smooth road at all. My journey to the U.S. was filled with setbacks, starting with my visa being rejected six times. Each rejection made it seem less likely that I would ever make it, and most people around me had already written off the possibility. But I refused to give up.
I bet everything on my short film Must Escape, spending every last dollar I had to create something that could serve as my ticket to the U.S. through the festival circuit. It was a huge risk – but it succeeded. Even though I arrived with zero money, no safety net, and had to start entirely from scratch in Los Angeles, I was determined to build something meaningful.
Adapting to a new country, building a career from the ground up, and competing in a fast-changing industry came with many struggles. There were moments of uncertainty, financial hardship, and countless setbacks. But every challenge only strengthened my resolve.
Then, in 2022, the war in Ukraine brought another devastating chapter. Many of my friends and family became refugees, and some I lost due to the war caused by the russian invasion. The impact wasn’t just emotional – it was financial as well. My business took a major hit, and once again, I had to rebuild from the ground up.
Today, running Avision Media is proof that persistence pays off. The struggles shaped me, and while the road was difficult, I wouldn’t change my journey – because it made me who I am today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am proud to call myself a filmmaker because I’ve learned to do everything throughout my career – anything from Production Assistant to Executive Producer. It has been a long journey, spanning over 15 years in the industry. What truly sets me apart isn’t just my technical skills – it’s my ability to connect with the emotions behind every story and the people I work with. If I had to highlight one defining quality, it would be empathy.
I am best known for my post-production work on commercials featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger and music videos for artists like Eminem, 50 Cent, Lil Nas X, and Monica. I also worked on the upcoming feature film Hubbard Street, a true-crime story about serial killer Richard Ramirez, based on the events of 1985.
Fun fact: When I first arrived in LA in 2016 with no money, I unknowingly stayed at the infamous Cecil Hotel – the same place Richard Ramirez once lived. At the time, I had no idea about its dark history. I had simply booked the cheapest available option in the heart of Downtown LA. Looking back now, it all makes sense. Editing the Richard Ramirez Cecil Hotel scenes for this film feels surreal – like coming full circle.
Despite my professional success and the red carpets I’ve attended, my greatest achievement wasn’t in the industry – it was finding my wife, Mariam, here in Hollywood. She has been my biggest source of strength and support through all the challenges I’ve faced in LA, and that means more to me than any career milestone.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Los Angeles is the energy and diversity of the city. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and no matter what industry you’re in, you can find like-minded people who are passionate about their craft. As a filmmaker, I appreciate the endless opportunities here – whether it’s networking with talented professionals, discovering unique locations to shoot, or simply being surrounded by the history and evolution of cinema. The fact that you can be in the mountains, at the beach, or in the middle of the city within an hour is also something special.
What do I like least? The obvious answer would be the traffic, but beyond that, LA can be a tough city. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and unforgiving. It will test you, and not everyone makes it here. But that’s also what makes success in LA so meaningful – because if you can make it here, you can succeed anywhere.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://avision-media.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vadym.shapran
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shapran
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadymshapran
- Other: https://vimeo.com/avisionmedia
