Today we’d like to introduce you to Edson Oda.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in a small city in Brazil called Mogi das Cruzes. While I was studying Communication and Arts at the University of São Paulo I started my career in Advertising, as a copywriter at DDB São Paulo.
During the following 10 years, I’ve worked for global brands like Philips, Honda and Johnson & Johnson and got recognition from the main international advertising festivals like Cannes Lions, Clio and the One Show.
However, since I’ve always dreamed about telling more personal stories, I decided to quit my job, and pursue a career in the film industry as a writer/director. So in 2012, I came to LA and started my Masters in Fine Arts at USC.
Restarting from scratch wasn’t easy, but despite some struggles I’m also very proud of the achievements I had, like winning a Quentin Tarantino’s short film competition, getting a Latin Grammy nomination for the best music video and being selected to the Sundance Screenwriter’s Lab.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I don’t want to complain too much, because I’m finally seeing the results of all the work and sweat I’ve put into this.
However, I can’t say that it’s been a smooth road either. It’s really hard to come to a different country by yourself, and stay away from your family, friends and from your culture.
Also, in Brazil, my career was already established, while in LA I had to start from scratch. There are new challenges every day, but they also come together with joyful moments and fun experiences.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I’m a writer and director working in the film and advertising industry. I’m extremely passionate about searching for new ideas and trying to see things from a different perspective.
As a writer/director, I’m really proud of being able to share some of my thoughts and beliefs with the people who read/watch my work.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I could start all over again I would care more about experiences and relationships than about success.
Contact Info:
- Website: edsonoda.com
Image Credit:
Auden Bui, Jean Paulo Lasmar, Brandon Cruz ; Sundance Institute
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