Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan C Lopez
Hi Ryan C, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was introduced to the world of movies at a really young age, I couldn’t have been more than 5 years old when my Dad showed me Star Wars (1977) for the first time. I vividly remember sitting as the credits rolled, when I saw George Lucas’ name I turned to my Dad and asked, “Who is that? What does he do?” That is THE inciting moment in my life that has sent me down the path to where I am now.
In high school, I started making films— smaller, more grounded stories that had elements of the worlds I wanted to explore, but that were mainly documentary-focused. One of the films I made even earned U.S. Congressional Recognition, and when I received that specific recognition it was a pivotal moment for me; it gave me the confidence to pursue filmmaking more seriously.
I went on to study at California State University, Northridge, where my Animated Senior Film, titled: Message Sent, was selected to screen at The American Pavilion at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. Shortly after graduation, I began working with Lucasfilm Animation, a full-circle moment that still feels surreal, and most recently, my animated short film, titled: Onnamusha, screened at The American Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival in May of 2024 and won the Audience Award as a part of the Tomorrow’s Filmmaker’s Today program as a part of the 2024 Hola Mexico Film Festival.
From being a wide-eyed kid watching movies to making films that resonate with audiences, there’s nothing more rewarding. I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries and seeing where my next chapter takes me, hopefully, to make more films that audiences embrace.
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’s a total cliche, but the road in this industry is never smooth—it’s full of twists, turns, and unexpected detours. But what’s always struck me is the generosity of people along the way. In my experience, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or share a story that reminds you why you’re here in the first place.
It might sound a little cheesy, but it’s true: success in this business isn’t just about talent—it’s about building a community. The trust you earn and the collaborations you foster are what keep you going through the highs and lows.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At my core, I’m someone with a passion for animated storytelling. For me, there’s nothing more fun than taking ideas that feel larger than life and finding ways to ground them in ways that captivate audiences. Blending humor, heart, and pure entertainment is what drives me as a filmmaker.
I’m always really inspired by the power of stories to bring people together and create hope, and I feel like Animation, is the ultimate medium for making that connection—and I really look to push its potential with every project I create.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are a ton of places I try and draw from in my day-to-day life — Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is a great book I like to reference a lot, and on the professional side, Directing Actors by Judith Weston has been a game-changer. That book specifically is an incredible resource for understanding performance.
For pure fun, if you’ve ever had a conversation with me for more than 5 minutes, odds are I have brought up my love for the Disney Parks – Neal Gabler’s book titled simply “Walt Disney” is one of my favorite books, it captures the life of Walt Disney in a super inspiring way, especially to someone just rising in the Animation Industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9095719/?ref_=pro_nm_visitcons
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanc.lopez/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/onnamushafilm/
