Today we’d like to introduce you to Polina Lynn Khatkevich.
Hi Polina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Minsk, but my family moved to Barcelona when I was three. My passion for cinema triggered at the age of ten, as I watched a variety of films at home with my parents. Hollywood classics and movies from the ’80s and ’90s were my favorites. It wasn’t until I turned 16 that I became fascinated with the early days of cinema, exploring German expressionism, the nouvelle vague, and Soviet cinema. That’s when I realized my calling was in filmmaking.
Initially uncertain about my role, I knew I wanted to make movies no matter what. After spending eight years as a model, I discovered my dissatisfaction with being in front of the camera. I always wanted to alter the concept and believed the set could be improved. The modeling industry’s atmosphere didn’t help either.
Transitioning to directing, I started with small projects like music videos for friends. It was during this time that I felt a spark within me. I couldn’t pinpoint it exactly, but being behind the camera and witnessing my ideas come to life thrilled me. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue a career in directing.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It wasn’t the case, as during my film studies in high school, I believed I wasn’t good enough. Most of my classmates seemed more talented, so I opted for a different university major, convinced I lacked the necessary skills. However, as I realized that passion still burned within me, I made a career switch after working in an advertising agency. There, I was told I’d have to create banners for six years before being considered creative. That’s when it hit me—I didn’t want that life. I understood that the only person who could prove my talent was myself.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m currently stepping into the advertising world, directing commercials. Initially, I thought it wouldn’t align with my interests, believing that client input heavily dictated the creative concept. However, I’ve come to realize it’s a fantastic avenue for experimenting with techniques. Typically, these projects span a few weeks, allowing me to try things that might not be feasible in a full-length film right away. Concurrently, I’m also working on a short film that I hope to showcase at festivals in 2025. I’ve assembled a fantastic team, and I’m excited about the journey ahead.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My main mentor was my high school teacher, Yago Alcover, who introduced me to the world of independent cinema and guided me in using the analog camera—a crucial tool that helped me understand photography, light, and composition. Later on, my friends in Barcelona, immersed in the audiovisual realm, became a wellspring of inspiration. Our evenings together at the Barcelona Film Archive, watching films, played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective. Lastly, at UCLA, my professor, Samuel González Jr., pushed me to write my first short film and imparted the harsh realities of Hollywood’s industry. He showed me the discipline required to make a mark in the scene.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.polinalynn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polina.lynn/
