Breaking Into Film: Empowering Disabled Creators with Purpose // Episode 8242 - Alex Astrella

Original Recording Date: August 7, 2024
In this episode, we sit down with Alex, a visionary visual artist and founder of Blu Star Productions LLC, based in Orange County, California. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of two, Alex was once told he would never be able to hold a job. Fast forward 24 years, and Alex has defied the odds, winning multiple awards and receiving national recognition for his groundbreaking documentary films. Alex shares his journey into the world of filmmaking, how it became his passion and purpose, and his mission to empower creators with disabilities through his production company. Join us as we explore Alex’s inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and advocacy for disabled artists.

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Interested in being a guest speaker? blieberman@yicunity.org

Transcript

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My name is Alex Astrella. Thank you for having me on the Breaking The Biz Podcast[Theme Music] Stay tuned for today's episode of Breaking the Biz, an informative podcast where we dive into the world of entertainment by interviewing seasoned professionals who have made their mark in the industry. Gain invaluable insights as they share their personal journey, offering advice on navigating the dynamic landscape of the entertainment industry. Whether you're an aspiring actor, musician, filmmaker, author, animator, or any creative soul, tune in for expert career guidance, insider tips, and first hand accounts on breaking into the entertainment industry. Get ready to unlock the secrets behind successful careers and fuel your own passion for the limelight. Please remember to like this video and to subscribe to our channels for more great conversations. Greetings from Breaking the Biz brought to you by Yes I Can Unity Through Music and Education. I'm William Felber, your navigator through the intriguing universe of the entertainment industry as revealed by the visionaries and creators who bring it to life. Stay tuned as we delve into diverse insights from the forefront of entertainment. Hearing from pioneers, creators and agents of change, prepare for a journey filled with tales of innovation, resilience, and the undying quest for artistic brilliance. Welcome to Breaking The Biz Podcast with the Yes I Can crew. We have got a great guest with us. We have Alex Astrella who is the creator of Blu Star Productions. He's a director, producer, filmmaker based out of Orange County. Diagnosed on the autism spectrum at the age of two, Alex was told he would never be able to hold a job as an adulthood. 24 years later, Alex has won numerous awards and has gained nationwide praise for his documentary films. Finding films has helped Alex realize his purpose in life. Whereas he struggled in other areas of life due to his disability, film always remained a constant source of joy and inspiration. His affinity for serving the autism community that helped him achieve success led him to the creation of Blu Star Productions, LLC. With Blu Star Productions, Alex hopes to usher in a new age of original content through empowering those gifted with a disability. Blu Star production serves to give a voice to artists across the disability spectrum. In creating unique opportunities for creators, our exceptional artist, Blu Star Productions, will foster content unlike anything seen before. From screenplays to feature length documentaries, the community of creators will thrive in showcasing their unique perspectives on the world through their own lens. They aim to continue to build a catalog of work that stretches the boundaries by utilizing resources to support their network of gifted creators, audiences will be spellbound by the artistry found in Blu Star portfolio. Above everything else, they are committed to providing a safe and welcoming space for disabled artists to collaborate and learn from each other, regardless of race, gender and religion. They are united through the belief that accessibility takes center stage. Moreover, they hope that their community develop lifelong connections by being part of Blu Star production family. Having harmony among artists who don't fit into any box makes the possibilities endless. I mean, what a perfect guest to have on the show. I mean, you are paying it forward for the next, you know, the next group of disabled creatives and giving them a platform. So many times I hear, I don't know where to put my stuff or how do I get my start? And the fact that you were two, and at that point, the odds of being successful, or the stereotypes. Let's go back to the stereotypes of, oh, you're not gonna be successful. So to see what you're doing 24 years later and continuing to give a platform to creatives, I just have to say major kudos to you, Alex. So I'm so excited to talk to you tonight. Thank you. Yeah, thank you for the wonderful intro. I feel like a very honored Humboldt. Appreciate it, man. Awesome. I love it. So, I wanna talk. When you were a kid, what was, like, the dream job? Was it an actor? Was it like, I want to be Steven Spielberg? Where did the love of film come from? Yeah, so I remember actually, like, in my fifth grade yearbook, I wrote that I wanted to be a writer. You know, everyone had their, like, dream goals, dream careers, and, like, I wanted to be a writer, and I did. I remember, like, through, like, third and fifth grade, kind of, like, writing. I was really into World War two at the time. So I was, like, writing this book, world book, that never materialized, rather. But, yeah, that's where, you know, I've always had a creative brain. I remember when I was doing Aba therapy when I was a kid, like, I would always. Arts and crafts was, like, my favorite part, you know, and building things that didn't even exist, you know, and, like, lining up, you know, I'm really into trains as well. It was when I was three. I still am at 28. And, like, lining up trains in different formations and also just like, you know, creatively, like, thinking, like, oh, this would be a route to, like, delaware, something like that. So I guess, like, all that to say that manifested kind of into my filmmaking. And, like, seeing so many films, you know, in addition to already just being a creative person and having a lot of creative thoughts, like, seeing so many films, like, throughout my childhood, like, kind of influenced me, you know, when I got to college, I didn't know whether what I was going to do. I was undecided, and I was just like, oh, wait, wait a second. I think it's kind of like, just like, you know, it's like, thing that's so obvious, but you don't, like, you know, see it at first. So that's where I started, you know, then I was like, okay, I'm gonna just go from being a spectator to actually, like, making these things. And from there, yeah, it just kind of blossomed, you know? I love it. So I want to hear, give me three movies that inspired you. The, you know, the three that you're like, okay, I want to do this. Oh, man. I mean, it's an obvious answer. Well, so I guess, like, my first one that comes to mind is the Godfather. Like, it's an, you know, it's so funny in the Barbie movie how they're like, oh, yeah. Like, you know, talk about, like, the Godfather scene. It's like, it was so accurate, but, like, it really did. I mean, my family's, my italian heritage, like, I think, played a part in that, too. But I just remember seeing that movie probably younger than I was supposed to and being, like, floored in a great way, like how, like, Francis Ford Coppola did that film. You know, just everything about it is just, like, flawless. Like, chef's kiss and two others. Inglorious bastards. You know, I've always had an affinity for, like, gore and just, like, stylized violence, but also, you know, intertwined with a really, like, compelling narrative. And that film did that, you know, both of those things so well. And it was kind of my introduction to Quentin Tarantino and then more recently, I think, get out. Get out was one of those ones that was when I saw. I saw that right when I was kind of starting my filmmaking career, and I was like, holy crap. Like, you know, I had seen, I was, like, 21 at that point, and I had seen so many amazing movies, but I feel like, get out just kind of turned the horror genre on its head, if you will, and it just kind of, like, forged its own genre. And what Jordan Peele did, you know, kind of like, proving everyone wrong that you can go from, like, comedy into, like, making horror and really, really sophisticated horror film, like, on a budget. That one just kind of like, you know, is like, okay. Like, that got the creative gears rolling a lot, especially being a star and novice filmmaker. I was like, wow. Like, you know what Jordan Peele was able to do with that and everything about that film. So those are the three. I mean, I have so many others, but those are the three I say from, like, a creator standpoint that I've just, like, been. And even though I do documentaries, that's, you know, those ones have still been, like, influential in terms of, like, my sense of, like, story structure and character development and whatnot. So I'd say those are. Those are three solid picks I agree on. On everything you said there. So, high school. Let's talk high school before we get to college. High school, did you, were you part of, like, a journalism class? Did you, what did you do? Creative writing. What did you do to foster that creativity in writing? You know, I actually didn't do too much. I would say, like, it's interesting in high school. Yeah, you would think, like, I would have done journalism or, you know, a creative endeavor like that, but I really just. I saw a lot of movies, you know, and I was, like, not studying for AP tests or other exams. Like, I just would find myself at the movie theater. And I was like, you know, very fortunate. There's a movie theater, like, a five minute drive from my house, and that was kind of like the social gathering point, if you will. We would all kind of, like, you know, it was almost like a church for, like, us high schoolers. My high school group, you know, we would all kind of, like, convene and, like, you know, worship the screen, if you will. And that was. Yeah, so it wasn't really any classes directly. I mean, I did take a photography class, but I'll be frank, like, that one didn't, you know, that. That didn't give me the same inspiration as, like, you know, the movies I saw throughout high school. And, you know, I think even the movies that some of the movies I like mentioned, you know, weren't during that high school period, but there were still, like, a lot of quality movies like Argo, you know, Lincoln, that I saw during high school, which I think, you know, also provided, like, a lot of inspiration, too, there. You know, through that, I went to high school, like, 2010 through 2014. There's some amazing films that came out during that time. And I think also part of it, too, is like, being in a social setting and, like, hearing, you know, getting, again, kind of like this church thing. It's like we go to dinner, like, afterwards and discuss, like, you know, the film or the plot or, like, what we liked, what we didn't like, and all these different opinions. And I think that it's almost kind of like a little like writers, like a think tank, a little like writers room if you will, like, you know, for high schoolers. And that was just so cool, like, having that experiences and that's what sticks with me. So I think that I wouldn't jump forward to college. I channeled those experiences not only of movie going, but also the conversations in and around it. Those are some of my favorite parts of high school. So I'm just going to chase that. I love it. Now let's talk about chasing the dream. You get to college and you mentioned undecided, right? What, where. When did you, you know, what was the final, what did you major in and what was the thing that pushed you in that direction? Yeah, so I did start, I started off with being a communications major, and because, you know, there's, like, some overlap communications, like, you know, marketing, media, she really know, like, exactly. You know, I got there as a freshman and I went to UC Santa Barbara and some party school. So I wanted to, you know, I was a freshman. I wanted to party and still learn, but, you know, at that point, I was taking a lot of general ed classes and, like, they weren't really pointing me in towards any direction outside of, like, checking off boxes, you know. But then I think, you know, through that time, too, through college, it was, you know, it looked different, but I was also still watching a lot of films, like in dorm rooms instead of movie theaters, but those same experiences, and I was very lucky. I had a lot of creative friends who weren't necessarily filmmakers, but those are early years at college. They were into music. They were into, like, you know, painting, drawing. And so I think being around that and also taking a statistics course, which I was not a fan of, kind of redirected me towards, towards film. And, you know, I think, I think part of that, too is, like, I told, like, my friends who are creatives that, you know, I had this passion for film, and I used to write scripts back and, you know, when I was in third grade and stuff, and they're like, dude, you should chase it. Like, you know, like, I, you know, they encouraged me, and at that point, too, I disclosed them I had autism. Like, dude, you know, I think you could build, you know, this is way back in the day. They're like, I think you could do something special. And, you know, here we are now. But, yeah, that's kind of, I think a lot of the friends support and my parents support, too, you know, like, really pushed me in that direction to thrive and film and, yeah, like I said, like, you know, I was ten years ago, and so it's just been, you know, but, yeah, about the last ten years, it's just kind of carried through. I love it when you're around creative people that make you step out of your comfort zone also foster that creativity. So that's amazing. When you were in Santa Barbara, did you feel you had to mask your autism? Like, obviously, you mentioned Santa Barbara is a party school. I'm imagining maybe early on in life didn't really have that party atmosphere. Was it easy to connect into that party group and, you know, talk me through college? Just that experience alone? Yeah. Yeah. I mean, to answer the first part, like, it was not. Not easy to acclimate. I mean. I mean, college, I would say, was never rough where, you know, like, high school was definitely. I think I had to mask it a lot more in high school just for obvious reasons, like, but when I got to college, I still definitely, you know, I think a big thing, you know, and that's, you know, a lot talked about a lot in the autistic space is a big thing is, you know, like, sex, especially in a dorm setting and stuff. And it's like, you know, all my buddies are talking about, like, sexual encounters and hooking up and stuff, and I'm just, like, not familiar with that at all. Not comfortable talking about it at all. And, you know, being in settings where it's like, oh, you make a. Gotta make a move, and it's just like, no, I can't. You know, and then. So. But, like, at the same time, like, masking that, like, being, you know, you know, people, these guys who are, like, kind of encouraging me, like, they don't know that I'm autistic and that I've had, like, this kind of social anxiety throughout my life. And, you know, just never. I've never been, like, good at talking to. I've never been ladies, and I still am not. But, you know, I mean. I mean, that's just one experience, right? You know, there's, like, you know, other. Drinking, smoking, a bunch of other things that, you know, again, is, you know, unusual. It's not really talked about because, you know, you think, like, people with autism, you don't think about, like, you know, but it's so. It's, you know, everybody does it. You know, it's not just like, oh, alcohol discriminates against people without autism. Like, no, but, you know, yeah, it put me in, like, kind of social predicament sometimes where I was like, yes, you know, I don't want to, like, kill the vibe or, you know, kill the mood or whatever, but I also want to, you know, be wary of my own boundaries and not, you know, not get too far out of my comfort zone. So. But, you know, I mean, that's the negative. And that honestly didn't last very long because it took me about not even a year, really, you know, where I found my group and I found I was able to, like, disclose them, which I never did to any of my friends in high school. It was only in college where I felt, you know, more comfortable at that point, like, telling people that I was autistic. And someone were like, oh, we had our suspicions, you know, like, they were like, we were close enough at that point. We were joking about it, and then others were like, oh, shit, like, thank you for, like, revealing that. And so I think, and, like, you know, consoling in them, confiding in them, rather, you know, that, like, built up. So if there were, like, scenarios where there were uncomfortable parts, like, they knew, like, oh, Alix has to step out or whatever. And, like, you know, I just found, you know, I've always been, in a good way, weird, you know, and so a lot of my friends were weird, like, you know, musicians and artists in general, like, arthem weird. And so I think they just embraced, you know, that, you know, like, autistic part of me and did even, but in a good way, you know, didn't even think about it. Like, it's like when I told them, like, nothing really, nothing changed, and I was, like, very skeptical about that. I didn't know if they were going to treat me differently. And they're like, you know, I think if anything, it made us closer. So that's how I knew it was the right fit. And, you know, it was like, at that point in time, it was the right move. You know, that was, like, the right thing to do is to tell those people, yeah, I love it. I love how you, you know, you embrace it and it is who you are. Who you are, right? And so getting that. Getting that off your back and then being able to share it and get that support from friends as friends should be now, I want to say you were, you were going in as communication. Did you change your major or did you just shift into taking classes in, you know, the radio, television, film? You know, how did you do that? Yeah, so I did. I was a communications major, and it was, was my sophomore year where I took that dreaded statistics class that I brought up earlier. And I think, you know, after that, I realized, like, I wanted to make a switch to film. But it was interesting when I first, like, switched into film. I kind of just thought, like, oh, you know, I'll get my. My. Excuse me, my bachelor's in film, and I'll be sad. I can be, like, a screenwriter. I had no clue how the industry worked. You know, I felt like, oh, yeah, I'm gonna get, like, the degree. And then I'll go, like, be plugged in somewhere in Hollywood writing for, like, you know, NBC or something. Right? Little did I know that was not the case. And, you know, it took me a year. The first year I was in the film program, I just kind of blew it off. Like, I did the assignments and stuff and watched them and enjoyed the movies and stuff, but I was just like, it took me another year to realize, like, talking to people who actually did production stuff, which I thought I want up because I just like film. But I realized, like, oh, crap. I don't know anything. I don't know anything about cameras. I don't know anything about sound. I don't know anything. I still don't know. I really didn't know anything back then. And, yeah, I went through. I think I definitely went through some self reflection of, do I really want to take this all on? Because I realized at that point, I realized, oh, this is a grind. This isn't going to be just like, you get your degree and you're set up somewhere nice and cozy. You gotta, like, really work at it. And then I like, yeah, it took, you know, a while and, like, some doubting at first, but then I, like, kind of turn that, you know, turn that into, like, positive energy. And I think part of that was realizing, like, you know, I am autistic. I kind of, like, inherently have a chip on my shoulder, and I've been through high school and high school and all grade school. I went through a lot. And now I'm gonna, um, you know, I think now is the time, because I'm so passionate about film, now is the time to really manifest that into positive energy and to, you know, just take on this challenge and become the best version of myself that I can and, yeah, so it wasn't, like, a right away thing where it's like, oh, man. Like, film is the coolest thing ever, and I'm just gonna, like, put dive head first in this. It took a while. I think I'm thankful if I would have dived head first into it, dove head first into it, rather. I think it could have had negative implications later down the line to taking some time and having some indecision about it really helped me realize, okay, this is the trajectory I'm supposed to be on, and I'm committed to improving my craft and building this out and still have. I love your growth mindset. I love the fact that you're like, I know I have to grind. It's. Nothing is going to be handed to me. No one goes, oh, you have a disability. Let me, you know, no one's going here, make your movie. You have to work for it. I just love the way you approach that, being resilient and knowing that you are going to have to put in the work. So you graduate college, do you get an internship? What, what do you do as soon as you graduate? Yeah, so it's interesting. When I graduated, you know, at that point, like, I knew I still had to grind, but I didn't want to do the traditional, like, you know, quote unquote grind of, like, living in LA that, you know, a lot of my peers were doing and no, no shade at them, you know, I know that's like a really, it can be a really awesome opportunity. A lot of my friends have landed some really awesome gigs and have really great careers, but it just wasn't for me. I didn't want to live in LA. It's kind of overstimulated. It's expensive, it's a lot of traffic. And so I moved back with my parents in Orange county. And all the while, I was still, you know, doing documentary stuff on the side. But I decided to, you know, I was just kind of thinking, like, what do I do? You know, while I. To make money while I'm, you know, I was editing a documentary at the time and didn't have a next project slated, really. So my mom was like, well, you know, you seem to, I think you would be really good working with kids and, you know, how you went through Aba applied behavior analysis therapy yourself as a child? Like, what if you became a therapist at that, while you do film on the side? And I was like, okay. So, yeah, long story short, I did do that, and it was cool. I was able to balance both. I was able to do film and I was able to be a registered behavior technician, which kind of paid the bills more or less. And so fast forward, that's kind of what led me to, I didn't realize I would fall in love with, like, special education and working with autistic children as much as I did. And I think honestly, especially during COVID when, you know, there wasn't much to do or go outside, really. Like, there wasn't much freedom working, still being able to work with those kids, like, gave me a lot of inspiration for, like, film ideas for scripts that, you know, I don't know if I'll ever be made, but, like, that I was still, like, you know, able to right, because of, like, working with these children gave me, you know, they're so creative, and it just filled me with. It filled me with happiness. It fill me with, like, hope, you know, it's like, okay, like, this is, like, just really cool, a really cool experience. So that's what, like, you know, those elements, like, led me to pursue my master's at Vanderbilt University and special education because I knew I don't like, no, I've always told myself, like, I'm never going to stop making films. And it might not be like the, you know, breadwinner or, you know, like, the thing that, you know, makes me a full crapload of money, even, and especially in documentaries, but, you know, I'm never going to stop doing it. But I also know to, you know, to remain afloat. And something I, you know, also passionate about is, you know, working with kids, you know, with autism, like myself. So, you know, a lot of people were like, yeah, but you know what? It makes more sense if you want to be a filmmaker to do, you know, a film, like, you know, MFA at chapman or whatever. And I was just like, no, I think, you know, I've always, since graduating college and stuff, I'm kind of like, you know, not that I obviously love feedback and stuff, but I'm very like, you know, I stick to my plan, you know, if I, like, stick to my guns, if you will. And so I did. And I think, you know, going through that process at Vanderbilt, you know, only, again, it enhanced my filmmaking knowledge and maybe not the most, like, obvious ways, but also did a lot for my, you know, journey into the special education universe. And so I'm really thankful. And then it was meant to be that I went to that program instead of a film program. I love it. I already want to give kudos and a hug to mom. You know, it's amazing when someone can just be a catalyst and point you in the right direction. It reminds me of my father who said, you know, you love music and you love education. Blend them. And in your case, you did. You loved, you were passionate about film, and you were also passionate about changing young individuals lives, and you blended that so major, major good karma to you. I also think it's amazing for young individuals to see someone who is successful, who put in the work like yourself, from Aba to, you know, cruising through high school to college to a master's degree, that is a great role model. And for everyone who said, oh, you're not going to do this, they can look at you and go, well, check it out. My mentor here is doing it. And how you shared it opened up ideas for different things that you want to create later on or stories you want to focus on. That's absolutely the good karma of changing people's lives. I will tell you, it comes back tenfold. I want to talk about documentaries, because I'm the guy who goes through Netflix and just goes and watch documentaries. There is something I love about a real story. I'm curious, on your case, where did the passion and love come with documentaries? Yeah, that's a great question. So I did. I think I mentioned earlier, I started out doing narrative stuff, and I think while it was really cool and very thankful for those opportunities, it didn't feel like the right fit, I don't know, place what it was. I just felt like something was off. I wasn't great at, like, communicating with actors, like, what I wanted, you know, like, it was, like, in my head. I just couldn't verbalize it. And then I had a chance my senior year at UC Santa Barbara to take an environmental filmmaking course, and it was already an application to get in once I got in. And 15 other cohorts, we all had the pitch and idea. And on the news earlier that year, I remember seeing stuff about inmates who were firefighters, but they never really, the news never really focused on interviewing them more. So just kind of showing them in the b roll of highlights. And I was like, well, this is related to the environment. It's a more human side, but it still comes back. And overwhelmingly, we all devote and the class love the idea. So we went forward with that project and made it in three months. And it was probably one of the coolest parts my life, honestly, like, thus far, like, not only, like, the project itself, like, the product that we put out, but also, like, the collaborative process. I met some of my people who are still, like, going to be lifelong friends. You know, we've been friends since we made it in 2018 and have been kept in touch since just because it wasn't a shared passion for, like, you know, telling the stories of these inmate firefighters, but also, like, the love of, like, filmmaking and being a, you know, something I think that I achieved on that set and that I carry over to all my sets is trying to create, like, a relaxed environment, you know, and, like, so much of Hollywood. And again, I know it works and I know it's great for some people, but for me, I'm, you know, the intensity of things can kind of overwhelm me. And so I'm very much like, you know, I like to have a laid back set where we're cracking jokes or we're like, oh, there's a train coming by. Like, let's get, like, let's get a shot of that. You know? So having that mindset, and I think being the director and kind of, like, sharing that, having that mindset and being relaxed, I think it kind of radiates onto the crew, if you will. And, yeah, it was just such a. And luckily, I think the product was very good to our film, trial by fire, the short. And so when it's like, I had those two things going, you know, like this really great working environment, great and talented collaborators, and then this awesome product, I was like, okay, well, this is kind of like a no brainer. I have to keep doing more of this. And so. And I did. I didn't, you know, at first I was like, well, maybe just a fluke. Maybe I just got lucky. I had some really good, you know, people on my crew, and it was a cool subject. I don't know if it's gonna pan out, but, like, you know, the second one, the third one come along and they get, like, generally, like, you know, positive feedback, and they're getting into film festival. So I was like, all right, I'm pretty good at this. I guess I'm decent at this enough to, you know, keep pursuing it. So, yeah, and, I mean, it's not just the accolades, you know, it's like, honestly, like, being on set, like, and besides the crew, like, it's something I did early on. You know, when I was first doing that film and other early documentaries, you know, I would kind of stick to the questions, and I held my paper, and I was very much like, I'm asking the questions that I printed out here, and I can't really deviate from the script, and I think it still worked out fine. But something I've embraced a lot more now is kind of like this, having a more conversational approach. It's like, I'll still print out questions, but I think it just led to me being happier, and I think the content being what I think is better is just having a more conversational approach when I'm having these interviews, and it's like, you know, it's almost like in some of these interviews, you know, you realize you are looking at your watch, like, holy crap, like, it's been an hour and a half. We've been talking for an hour and a half. The most recent film we're doing, which is actually a feature length of the short, trial by fire. It's like, you know, been the case for several of the interviews where I'm just like, these are. I'm just like, you know, having a conversation. I'm latching on to, like, idea, you know, things that they're saying and asking follow up questions, and I will lead. And it's kind of cool because I look at my question, she. At the end of it, I'm like, oh, we just covered this. It was just a lot more natural than me going back to this piece of paper. It's like we ended up coming full circle with it. And, yeah, that's the coolest thing for me. And besides the interview, meeting some amazing families, getting super hospitality from some of our subjects, and getting to a lot of stuff you don't see on camera, having the crew taking selfies with them or playing with dogs that are at people's houses. Like, I just love that shit, you know, like, it's so cool for me to be in that experience. And, you know, the. I'm so fortunate and thankful that people are, you know, a lot of our subjects throughout all the films have been willing to open their houses or their residences or their workplaces because we get to have, like, these, you know, awesome experiences that are on camera and off camera. So I could go on all day about it. You know, that's like, there's so many things I love about the documentary space. Yeah, I love how you're just so humble. You're like, I'm kind of good at it. You're obviously, you've got a gift in telling a story, and I love that you pitched that idea. I think it is a phenomenal, fascinating idea. And they are heroes who are probably not considered heroes when they're in prison. And I'm sure they all have stories. You dive into that. The fact that you also talked about just kind of creating a safe space and a relaxed. Having a director who doesn't take themselves, like, doesn't have an ego, and you're making your crew feel safe and comfortable, but also the people that you're telling the story about have to feel comfortable talking to you. And that's when you really get people to share their inner thoughts, and it's authentic. And so I love that. So you create that. It starts winning awards. What's the next documentary you make after that? Yeah, so it was actually related to. It was about a inmate dog program up at a prison in San Luis Obispo. And it was actually, you know, that's why I love going to film festivals, because I realized that there's, like, stories waiting to happen in addition to meeting, like, awesome people and getting to talk to the audience who, like, you know, pays to go watch your film, that, you know, it's never gonna be at a movie theater again like that, that's already an incredible experience in itself, but to have, like, yeah, so it was a lady, actually, who came up to me when our first film, tried by fire, was at the San Luis Obispo film Festival. And she's like, this firefighting program is, like, incredible. And the fact that you made a film about it, I just wanted to let you know I have a buddy named Mike, and he was a former inmate, and he helped run this dog program here at our California men's colony in San Luis Obispo. You guys should get in touch, and I don't know if anything will come out of it, but at least get in contact. And so we did, and that's what led to my second film, like, underdogs, as we, you know, just meeting Mike and getting access to that story and that opportunity. But it was all kind of fostered by this, like, film festival connection, you know? So I try to. You know, I'm very. Anytime I get into a festival, I try to make it out. I'm obviously, like, grateful, and. But. But outside of that, it's like, I know that there could be a story waiting to happen here, like, either from a filmmaker or somebody in the community or maybe elsewhere, you know? So I think that there's, like, a real magic to film festivals outside of, you know, the obvious stuff, like the networking and, you know, parties, and that's all great, too, but it's really, like, I mean, how many people can say that they, you know, had, like, a. They got to make their second documentary based off one person they met at, you know, and that's all it takes. There's one person meeting that you don't usually come into in a normal, you know, scenario. You wouldn't. You wouldn't run into them in your everyday lives, but, you know, at a setting like a film festival. Like, it fosters that conversation. And that's been the case with not only underdogs, but another film of mine that we're currently working on. Extraordinary character, same thing. I was at a festival in Birmingham, Alabama, and a guy comes up to me, he's like, oh, you're doing a project about this all inclusive playground. Well, my friend runs all inclusive theater out in San Diego, and that led to another documentary. So it's really these, it's amazing. I think there's so much like, if you will, like, untapped potential, like in film festivals of, like, projects waiting to happen. So that, so long story short, that's how it led to the genesis of our second film and also the film I'm working on now. So I gotta, I want to point out some things because there's so much good stuff that you're talking about. Underdogs, first of all, what a, an amazing title for that documentary. I mean, super cool. Have to give you your kudos right there. I want to explain to our listeners, though, who share that it's very hard to network naturally, you know, dealing with eye contact or just feeling not, you know, comfortable. Obviously, you have just, you know, experienced so much and you're, you're in your element, so to speak. But I think it's a great example, a film festival, you mentioned. It's okay to have those conversations and people can talk about films and it's, it's natural. That's what you are passionate about. I mean, I'm sure if you talk to somebody in a coffee shop and you were talking movies, you could talk, you know, the entire night. Right? That's what you love and that's what you're passionate about. Everyone on this call has something that they're passionate about. If it's animation, voiceover, video game design, setting, lighting, editing. I just want to point out that when you get yourself out of your comfort zone and you go to these festivals and you go to these things where you can naturally network, things happen. And if you're sitting home playing the video games, eating pizza, you're never going to make these connections and the relationships, and it was as simple as somebody going, hey, you should meet somebody. I don't know where it's going to go. And like you mentioned, that led to the next movie that you, you know, you created, so. And then the third one as well. You know, just success is always on the other side of your comfort zone. And in your case, it's, it's proof, right? Like three documentaries later is because you got yourself out of the comfort zone, traveled to places and went to film festivals and shared your story. So, so the kudos, I can't stop giving you kudos. I just, I love what, what you're doing. I want to talk about where do you decide to go and create lu star productions. When, when did that launch? Yeah. Yeah. So, you know, all along, like, I guess when I first started, even when I made my first film, trial by fire, I always had this idea of, like, wanting to do something more or if I did have a production company, like, wanting it to be something more than just like my own film is because, I mean, it's, again, it's hot sense, but there's so many production companies where it's just like, you know, we have to have an llc so we can get, like, you know, like, tax incentives or write offs or whatever. Like, but it's like, you know, there's, there's not really any, like, greater ambitions outside of, like, just, you know, producing your own work. And I was like, it was actually, again, it's a thing I'm so thankful for going to Vanderbilt for is because I was working. You know, it was after my first year of the special education program and I was, like, literally just about to fall asleep one night and I was just like, well, what if I made this production company that not only showcases my work but also gives a voice to a lot of other autistic filmmakers who are like myself or maybe they're not documentarians. Maybe they're animators or voice artists or what have you, but, and, you know, like, I just got so inspired. It was just, it was like, almost like one of those natural highs when I had that kind of like epiphany and like, literally the next day I just started calling people and, you know, going to different, getting different consultations and whatnot and, yeah, here we are almost like two years later and I'm really proud of, you know, it's kind of like looping it back. It's kind of like what I envisioned and obviously it's still growing, but it's like, it's a space where it's not just, you know, obviously it is a forum and a vehicle for my own films, but it's like, with our network page, you know, I'm so proud like, that we have as many people who have already wanted to sign up and, you know, be on a public platform where hopefully, you know, people would be able to utilize their talents because that's, and because that's, you know, really what it's about is like, and Blu Star is really hoping that there's so many, you know, that there's so many studios, like big studios like Sony and, you know, magnolia, what have, you know, so many big studios and especially in the LA area, but there's such kind of like, little representation in the autistic population. And so, like, I know, you know, I want to be leading the charge, and I know there's, like, other people that are leading the charge, but, but, and that's part of the great part about it is, like, collaborating with, like, other studios and, you know, people like yourselves as well. But, yeah, I just want to, you know, I don't want to be the only one that, like, you know, advocates, but I do want to be, like, you know, I want B star productions to, you know, have a be well known in the space for being able to empower neurodivergent creators. And again, like, like, you know, there's, on our website right now, there's actors, there's editors, there's everything. It's a, it's a great mix of everything. And there's so much, like, planned down the line, you know, of, like, like, things going outside of just, like, the network or expanding on the network that I'm just really excited about. And so I'm very thankful that it's, like, when I set my mind to it two years ago, it's, you know, it's still, we're still building, and it's still kind of in its infancy almost. But, yeah, a lot. There's a lot that I've accomplished. I'm very proud of. You should be extremely proud. And, you know, it's crazy. I'm curious. Did you ever have anyone who said, like, oh, this is a bad idea, or, that's not going to work? Were there any haters? Or did everyone just go, oh, no, that is a good idea? I'd say overwhelmingly it was pretty positive. And I think, or that positive reaction was like, because it's my, it's like, weaving my own story into it. I'm not just some guy, like, some random, you know, I am a random white dude, but I have autism. You know, I'm not just some, like, neurotypical guy. Like, he's just, like, trying to capitalize off the autistic population. It's like, you know, I've been through therapy. I've gone through, you know, I have my stim and everything. And it's like, so it's like, I'm a proud autistic individual. And so I think kind of, like, by incorporating that into lu, excuse me, lu tar productions story and kind of our, you know, it's kind of a big factor of it is my own diagnosis, I think, that led people being like, dude, yeah, that's, that's sick. You know, like, obviously I did get, you know, there was like, you know, a lot of feedback at the beginning. It's like, which, you know, obviously, like, I didn't have, wasn't unexpected. You know, it's like I never owned a production company. I never ran a website. I never, like, I never owned a business, you know? And so I had a lot of people telling me like, oh, you know, like, you know, I would do this differently or I would do this. And some of it was really good. Another was kind of like, okay, yeah, I'm, you know, thank you, but I'm not going to do that. But, no, I love it. I don't want to cut you off. But the only reason why I asked that question is because we were talking earlier and somebody said, you know, like, the negativity. And when people hate, I use that as a positive thing to, you know, to lift me up. And I think it's a phenomenal idea. I think the fact that Hollywood is got so many gatekeepers that don't let, I mean, they just keep making the same story over and over on that other side of Hollywood. Right? And there are people who need a platform to share their story, and you are providing that. It's extremely authentic. It's extremely inspirational. So it's a fantastic idea. And I love, you know, not everyone has had a business or run a website. Like you said, all it takes is somebody to have the vision. And you had that vision. And as it grows, you know, you mentioned it's in the infancy. It's going to just continue to grow. And the other thing I love is you're creating a community where you can collaborate. You're finding other editors, you're finding other, you know, writers, other actors. Is there somebody that has come to you that you're just like, oh, my God, this is the most unbelievable talent. I gotta foster this person in any aspect. Acting, writing editor, you know, somebody who's approached, you know, blue Star productions. There have been a couple, I don't know if I want to, like, share names, but there have been, like, some people that, you know, is actually the autism and entertainment expo where some people came up to me and I've followed up with them since and they, I've been able to see some of their work. And specifically, there's one gentleman who is an animator, and I was like, and I don't know, crap. We say animation, right? I mean, I do, but it's like, I can't animate anything. That's not my strong suit. But, like, seeing his work, you know, we had, like, a zoom call before he. Before we got kind of connected to get him on the database, like, and I was like, wow, this is, like, incredible. This is so cool. And, yeah, it just blew me away. And, like, how passionate he was. I could just tell, like, even without, like, you know, like, there were moments where, like, he wasn't even talking, but I could just see, like, you know, the passion in his eyes, as cliche as that is. But I was just like, dude, like, this is your, this is your calling. Like, I can tell. And, like, yeah. Again, I'm not like an animator, but, like, just being able to hopefully, you know, by putting him on our network and hopefully getting him the opportunities to shine as he should, you know, because he's so damn talented. And that's only one, you know, that's only one example. You know, there's like, I actually did meet, I met another gentleman who was a screenwriter and gave me shared, like, a piece of the script, and I was like, oh, this is so, in a great way. This is so goofy. This is so off the walls, you know? And it's like, again, I think it's something. It's like a superpower almost, because I think, you know, in my own life, too, there's, like, a lot of, I'm crave in a way that I think kind of gives me an edge because of my autism, you know? And I think, like, when I saw this gentleman's script and I saw this other gentleman's animation, and it's like, I think these are, sure, it's like a neurotypical person could draw the same thing or write the same, but, like, the energy, the passion kind of behind it, you know? And, like, the way they, like with the script, like, the way it was delivered, I was like, this is special, you know? It's like, I think we as autistic individuals have an edge that neurotypicals in the entertainment industry don't. And it's something, again, that just needs to be recognized on a greater level and I think will be, and, you know, hopefully. We're Blu Star productions. We're part of that wave. I think real knows real. You know, that expression, right? Like, passion can see where someone's passion, talent can see real natural talent as well. So I'm just excited. A to follow your career, to follow all of what you create, you know, the platform that you have created as well. Is there a mantra that you say that you find yourself saying that keeps you positive? It's a good question. Honestly, there is. I don't really know if it's a mantra, but it's just like you mentioned it earlier, it's not resilience, but just I have this relentless mindset and I think that's kind of been put on me because during, when I was a kid, so many times in my life also, my dog just jumped on in the background conveniently at this part. But no, sorry, going back to it. Yeah, I have this ambition now because I was kind of like with the Blu Star bio, I was checked into a box. I was told, you're never going to achieve this. Even when I got first diagnosed, he's probably not going to, my mom was told he's probably not going to graduate high school, probably not going to be able to live independently. And it's going surpassing, transcending all those, like, barriers or boxes. You know, it's like the whole idea of a box is so stupid. So it's just given me this, like, unreliable mindset that, like, you know, I'm gonna keep going and I might not like, you know, get to the destination and like, you know, if we're, say it's like a route, you know, like a, like the, you know, weight hasn't, like apple maps. Like, I might not get there the quickest way, but, like, I will get there in some shape or fashion, you know, and it might not like the destination, not look like it might have originally intended, but it will still be like some sort of like, like finale. But then the thing is, it's not just like, as creators know, it's not just like you get to that and then you're done. It's like it's just onto the next one. You're always climbing the mountain. I know it's a common phrase, but it's true. It's like, and I know that climb, like I said, that climb to kind of bring over the same rhetoric, like that climb might not be the quickest way, but I will keep climbing the mountains and there's not going to be anyone who stops, you know, there's no doubt in my mind. And I love, you know, the way you said that, too. I mean, obviously there's two roads that can go different directions. And who's to say they don't lead to the same place? Maybe, you know, going to Hollywood and doing it like the others that you mentioned was a quicker route, but, you know, staying the course and staying true to your art and understanding that you're constantly growing and learning and becoming a better producer and creator. Amen to that. So I love it. I have one last question, and then I'm going to turn it over to our crew here, you know, and they can start thinking of their questions other than not taking that statistic class, because I know that could be a quick answer here. What is the one piece of advice you would give to your younger self if there was anything you could change? And I know that everything has made you who you are, but there was one thing you could alter or tell your younger Alex, what would that be? Oh, that's a good question. That's funny. I asked that question in a lot of interviews that I do for my films. I never. I've never asked it myself. Gosh, I think keep pursuing. You know, I think there were a lot of times, and, you know, again, I think everything. I'm in the mindset. Everything works out for a reason. But I think there were a lot of times when I was younger where somebody would kind of, like, shut down. You know, there would be, like, a. Somebody would shut down a path, if you will, you know, like. And that was, you know, maybe it was a teacher, maybe it was a friend or something. It would just, like, shut down an idea, and I would just kind of be complacent. I would go. I'd be like, yeah, okay. But now I think with the mindset I have now, I think I tell my younger self, like, nah, screw that. Like, you know, like, don't let those people get in your way. Don't let one person know, like, you know, let affect your path or whatever. And again, it's like, that money, that might mean you get there a different way, but, like, don't let it deter you. I think. I think when I was younger, a lot of things, you know, a lot of no's and a lot of, like, rejection deterred me. And now I'm just like, you know, bring it on, you know? Bring on. I like the challenge. I like the, you know, the rejections. Like, all right, well, yeah, like, again, tapping back into my relentless mindset. Like, I'm just gonna, like, prove you wrong even more. So, again, it worked out. But, yeah, if I were to tell my younger self, like, I would have adopted that, like, relentless mindset at a younger age because I would have told myself, like, you know, don't. Don't listen to what the naysayers are saying. Just keep doing your thing and it'll work out. Absolutely beautiful. I love that answer. I'm going to turn it over right now to questions. If I see hands go up. Oh, I see Presley right away, a very aspiring writer. Go for it, Presley. Thanks for that, Brett. And first off, hi, Alex. It's nice to meet you. I am writing on a screenplay for my first feature. I wish I can tell you about it, but unfortunately it's classified as of now. So I just have one question for you. Which film genre would you love to work on? It could be action, Sci-Fi horror, anything. What could it be? Oh, yeah, that's a great question, Presley. I love horror movies. Honestly, like, even though I make documentaries, and documentaries are like my babies, you know? Like, horror is, like, probably my favorite genre. Like, in any time I go to a film festival, I automatically, like, you know, don't make any plans during the horror block because I know, especially, like, you know, short horror films, I think are so special, like, because of the twist or, you know, the things that you can't see in theaters. But yeah, I love horror. And, like, I guess, you know, being a get out, being a prime example like that, I think I. When I saw, you know, I had seen stuff before that, like the descent or the ring, the village, you know, I think those are all equally, you know, those are great movies. But when I saw get out, I was just like, oh, man, this is like. This is like a new era of horror, you know, in addition to, like, its own genre. But after that, I was like, I think there's been subsequent movies, like, you know, with Ari Aster and Robert Eagers, who have, like, brought on these amazingly, like, intellectual horror films. And, yeah, I'm just captivated by that. And I think in a way, it kind of influenced again, like, it's not, you know, a horror movie doesn't represent a documentary at all. But I think, you know, there's structure and there's like, you know, production design. There's elements of it that I'm inspired to incorporate into my own work, even if it's not, like, direct. So, yeah, that would be. That would be my answer. I just. I love. I'm a horror geek for sure. Love it. Great question. I love that. Presley. Josh, go ahead and ask your question. Hi. Regarding your documentaries, how do you choose a subject for documentaries? That's another great question. So sometimes it will be, like I mentioned earlier at that film festival, somebody will come up to me and tell me, oh, hey, I know this person or this program, and I think you should check it out. So it was pretty easy from there. I just kind of already have a contact point of contact other times, like, for one that I did while I was in Nashville at Vanderbilt, it was my master's thesis project. I was watching the news, and it was talking about this all inclusive playground. I was like, that looks sick. I want to get in contact with the person who spearheaded it. And I did. I just traced the sources from that news article, and, you know, a couple emails later, got in contact with the Karen, who's a protagonist of our film freeplay, who spearheaded the creation of the park. So, yeah, it's a mixture. And I'd say, honestly, it's been a mixture of both. It's sometimes, like, I'll see something in the. And it was the same thing with trial by fire. Saw in the news. Right? Like, it's something I'll see on the news or I'll read in a magazine or a journal, and other times it's like, you know what I'm talking about earlier. Like, I'll be at a film festival, and somebody will come up to me with an idea, and I'll be like. And I'll run with it. Or, you know, they'll put me in contact with person. So, yeah, it's. It's those. I don't really get the thing. There's, like, components of films that will come to me, like, when I'm in the shower, when I'm falling asleep. But, you know, there's not often, like, well, I'd be. I'm not one of those people where I'll be in a shower, like, doing something, you know, like meditating, and it'll come to me. It's more so, like, you know, it has to be, like. It'll be, like, more direct, you know? Perfect. Great question. Josh. Alex, I have to just say it again. You are an inspiration. You are a pioneer. You are changing the course of people's lives, giving them a platform in your documentaries and in what you're doing with Blu Star productions. Like I mentioned earlier, we are going to follow you. We have some projects coming up that I cannot wait to share with you and get you involved in as well. I'm so glad I reached out. Your story, like I said, is amazing, and it's honest, and you're very humble for such a talented individual. I wish you continued success, good health, and continue to be that resilient individual who just keeps going because success, you've already tasted it, but you've got a lot more coming to you as well. So what an amazing evening, and I think we're all blessed to been able to speak with you. So on that note, I want to say goodbye to everyone. Have a good evening. As we conclude another enriching episode. We hope you found inspiration in the stories shared today. Let's take a moment to honor Yes I Can's role in bringing Breaking The Biz to life. Yes I Can's commitment to empowering young people with disabilities through education, advocacy, and mentorship shines brightly. Paving paths of opportunity and dialogue. This podcast celebrates the organizations dedication to nurturing talent and facilitating impactful discussions. Breaking the Biz is more than a podcast. Its a part of Yes I Can's broader mission to amplify voices, dismantle barriers, and craft a world thats more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Each episode is a chapter in our shared narrative of progress, education, and empowerment, driven by the spirit of Yes I Can thank you for spending your time with us on breaking the biz. Continue to challenge the status quo and share stories that resonate until our paths cross again. Let's keep transforming aspirations into achievements and infuse every endeavor with optimism. Here's to advancing the landscape of the entertainment industry, one episode at a time. I'm your host, William Felber. See you next time.