Derek Sulek shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Derek, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I truly felt joy was quite recently. In August of this year, I had the incredible privilege of marrying the love of my life, Neginah. Our wedding took place in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by our closest family and friends who came together to celebrate with us. The week-long festivities leading up to the big day were absolutely magical – filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. The wedding itself was beautiful, love was truly in the air, and we all celebrated in the most wonderful way.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Originally from Boise, Idaho, I am a versatile Producer, Director, and Writer now based in Los Angeles. As the co-owner of Fade to Black Films, I am deeply involved in every stage of storytelling, from development and pitching to producing, writing, and directing premium projects for major networks. What makes our work unique is our commitment to crafting impactful, high-quality content that resonates with audiences while pushing creative boundaries.
With a strong foundation in financial management, team leadership, and project oversight, I ensure that each project is guided seamlessly from its initial concept through to final delivery. As a proud member of the Producers Guild of America, I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of excellence throughout the production process. We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming project, “Dead of Night,” set to release in 2026. Stay tuned for more details soon.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that the world was much more straightforward than it actually is. I assumed that most people shared the same sense of common sense and that there was a general way things were supposed to be. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize that everyone sees the world through their own unique lens, shaped by their experiences and perspectives. I no longer believe there’s just one “right” way of thinking or doing things, and that shift has made me much more open-minded and empathetic.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were definitely moments when giving up crossed our minds. Our company faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the DGA strikes, then the SAG strikes, and finally the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Those were incredibly difficult times that truly tested our resilience and even led to conversations about throwing in the towel. But we never gave up, and hopefully we never will.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I deeply admire Keanu Reeves for his character as a person rather than his fame or influence. He is known for his humility, kindness, and generosity despite his success. He often goes out of his way to treat people with respect, whether it is taking pay cuts so that others on set can be paid fairly or quietly donating large sums of money to charities without seeking recognition. He is also known for living a grounded and simple life, remaining approachable and genuine even in an industry that often encourages the opposite. His compassion, resilience, and unwavering humility are qualities I truly respect and strive to embody in my own life.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who was honest, hardworking, and loyal. I want to be seen as a dedicated businessman who pursued his passions with integrity and purpose. Most of all, I hope they say I was a great storyteller who brought people together, entertained them, and left a lasting impact through the stories I shared.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fadetoblackfilms.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-sulek/
Image Credits
Tina Vonn
