Rising Stars: Meet Itamar Lubanov of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Itamar Lubanov.

Hi Itamar, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Itamar Lubanov, and I’m a writer-director. I started making films when I was 12 years old. Growing up in a quiet suburb, film education wasn’t easily available – so I used to travel by bus for over an hour, several times a week, just to attend filmmaking classes. That’s where I first discovered the power of storytelling.

In recent years, I’ve been working as a freelance director and screenwriter, developing a wide range of projects – from short films and music videos to commercials and documentaries. But more than a profession, filmmaking is how I process reality. It’s how I feel connected, how I try to make sense of the world, and how I share that attempt with others.

My latest short, Parallels, is a crazy sci-fi comedy that recently premiered at the Jerusalem Film Festival. Sitting in the audience, hearing people laugh hysterically – that’s why I do this.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a smooth road – and honestly, it’s still not. Building a creative path is something I work on every day. From a young age, I had to actively search for opportunities, travel far just to learn, and constantly prove my place in rooms I wasn’t naturally invited into.

Freelancing is a constant balancing act – creatively, emotionally, financially. There’s always uncertainty, and there are moments where doubt creeps in. But over time I’ve learned not to rush. One of the most valuable lessons I carry with me is something my grandmother used to say: “Slow and steady wins the race.”

That’s my approach. I try to stay consistent, thoughtful, and connected to what I want to say – even when the results take time. I know I still have a long way to go, and I’m okay with that. The journey is the work.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I currently work as a freelance writer, director, and offline editor, leading creative projects across short films, music videos, commercials, and documentaries. Over the past year, my work has been recognised both at major film festivals (Parallels at the Jerusalem Film Festival 2024) and on national television (The Dr. of Be’eri on Channel 12).

Freelancing has taught me to be proactive – to initiate projects, manage multidisciplinary teams under pressure, and keep pushing creative boundaries. It’s also sharpened my self-discipline, organisational skills, and adaptability across different creative environments.

Creatively, I’m drawn to universal stories about the human experience: depression, self-worth, loneliness, and emotional growth – but I don’t usually tell them in realistic ways. I aim to create imaginative worlds that cross time, society, and race – places where audiences, wherever they are from, can see themselves. I want my work to feel playful and inventive on the surface, but to touch on something true and lasting underneath.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to meaningful collaborations – whether it’s with other directors, writers, producers, musicians, or visual artists. I love projects that challenge format, play with tone, or bring unexpected perspectives to familiar themes. If you’re working on something honest, strange, or emotionally driven – I’m probably in.

The best way to reach me is through Instagram or email. I also love grabbing coffee and talking ideas – even if there’s no clear “project” yet. Some of the best things I’ve made started that way.

More than anything, I’m looking for people who care deeply about what they do, who believe in nuance, rhythm, and emotional intelligence in storytelling. If that sounds like you – I’d love to connect.

Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @ItamarLubanov

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itamarlubanov/

Image Credits
All rights reserved to Itamar Lubanov