The Scene I will never forget

I find it difficult to select a single scene from life, film, or literature as the most memorable because there are so many. Instead, I want to share a day from my life that had a profound impact on me: the first day of shooting my short film, «The Path.» This was my first significant filmmaking experience.

Filming took place in Aretes. Our team was small, consisting mainly of my father’s friends and relatives, yet I was the youngest member and the director. Some of them were industry professionals who gave me regular advice; while helpful, it could also be distracting. Due to my inexperience, I struggled to fully assert myself as a director. However, I now realize that this is a natural part of the learning process. The atmosphere of the shoot and the lessons I learned provided a foundation for my growth. I now think more creatively and professionally than I did then. Sometimes I wonder, «Why didn’t I do it differently?» but I realize that if my past work looks weak now, it simply means I have progressed.

On that day, I found it hard to believe that mature professionals were donating their time to a project directed by a beginner. Their support inspired me to pursue my profession more deeply and taught me something rarely found in universities: the ability to achieve a goal regardless of the circumstances.

The help from friends and family was understandable, but what’s more interesting is how we chose one of our main actors—the deputy director of my school—is particularly interesting. We approached him because of his appearance which would suit the role well. To my surprise, he agreed easily, without even knowing the project details. I was thrilled and began planning the role around him.

However, as I tried to provide him with the script and updates, he seemed to avoid me. When the filming days arrived and my father (the producer) finally contacted him, the truth came out: because of my age, the deputy director hadn’t taken me seriously. He had agreed to everything thinking it was just a «child’s game» that would eventually blow over. By then, it was too late to change plans, and we proceeded with the shoot. In the end, it turned out well. I made mistakes, but realizing them now is what allows me to improve on every new project I undertake.