Meet Nathan Castiel of Blimps Unltd. in Silver Lake

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nathan Castiel.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Nathan. So, let’s start at the beginning, and we can move on from there.
I’m a director and production designer from the San Fernando Valley, currently living in Silver Lake. Though I have been making short films since age 11, I started working as a production designer after graduating from college in 2014.

Since then, I have production designed music videos for artists like Kendrick Lamar, Juicy J, and Weezer. At the same time, I have been steadily directing videos for local artists- starting with videos for my own bands Tempest Le Mans and Orchin.

Recently, I have directed videos for internet comedy channel Super Deluxe, pop artist Rhetorik and indie rock band BOYO (starring Seinfeld’s Jason Alexander). I am currently prepping to direct and production design several upcoming music video and commercial projects.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Growing up in the North San Fernando Valley to two 1st-generation immigrant parents, I had to discover everything that I know about pop and underground music/video on my own. With no family industry ties to speak of, I’ve had to forge my own connections through the work I do.

Despite my lackluster grades, I was accepted to USC’s film school and was able to attend thanks to scholarships and loans. After graduation, I decided to attempt the uncertain world of freelance while living with my parents, and later, often paying rent doing odd jobs while pursuing film work.

Even after a few years and some good credits under my belt, the freelance lifestyle can still be unforgiving. Sometimes I wonder why anyone would subject themselves to it, but I couldn’t imagine any other way.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Blimps Unltd. Story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a director and production designer working in the realm of music video and commercial. As a production designer, I have worked on dozens of projects for big artists like YG, Schoolboy Q, and Amine.

As a director, I have done projects for Super Deluxe, Rhetorik (Logic’s producer/touring DJ) and worked with actor Jason Alexander under the production company Blimps Unltd, which I started with my friend and collaborator Keith Boos.

I think that my sense of character and narrative sets me apart as a music video director. I try to approach each video as a means to tell a relatable story – often leaning towards dark comedy as a way to tell truths about life while still being fun and accessible.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luck is a weird concept. On the one hand, I’m lucky to have parents who have supported me, even if my career choices are not what they expected or desired from me.

I’m lucky that I’ve had the opportunity to work on the projects I have and work with the artists and directors that I have. But on the other hand, for each cool project I’ve been a part of, there are ten like it that have been rejected, unreleased, or fallen through the cracks somehow.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nathancastiel.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @blimp.boy

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.