Tell us about your film career so far...what experience do you have? What skills have you development and how? How did you gain the knowledge you currently have?

I am Jay Manari, a non-binary, award-winning independent producer, writer, and director, with a deep passion for period dramas, romance, and coming-of-age stories. Throughout my career, I have directed, written, and produced several acclaimed short films, including "La Mia Italia," "Petite Blanche," and "American Rouge." These works have received numerous awards and festival recognitions for their unique storytelling and technical excellence. In addition to my work on independent films, I have contributed to high-end TV dramas as an assistant producer and director's assistant on shows like the fantas-period drama, "Renegade Nell" (Disney+). Moreover, I founded MiraBan Ltd, an Arts & Entertainment company focused on film events, including the MiraBan UK Film Awards, which champions diverse, low-budget, and auteur cinema. MiraBan Ltd also hosts networking events such as the MiraBan Film and TV Career Expo, and offers online film courses like the Festival Promotion, Funding, and Distribution Strategies course available on Udemy.

I have developed a broad range of skills essential for film production, honed through practical experience, educational pursuits, and industry training programmes:

• Organisational and Management Skills: Expertise in calendar management, scheduling, coordinating meetings, and multitasking.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong capabilities in analysing complex problems and developing effective solutions.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Effective in both verbal and written communication, crucial for collaboration and leadership in film projects.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in editing software such as Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro, Audition, Photoshop, and Celtx.
• Creative Skills: Innovative storytelling, artistic direction, and a keen eye for visual aesthetics and cinematic techniques that enhance the emotional and narrative impact of a film.

What challenges have you faced? How have you overcome them?

One significant challenge I have faced is navigating the competitive and often exclusive nature of the film and TV industry. To overcome this, I created opportunities for myself and others through initiatives within my own company and third parties. Another challenge has been balancing the creative and administrative aspects of filmmaking, which I managed by developing strong organisational and time management skills. Working on diverse projects has also taught me to adapt quickly to different environments and team dynamics. The struggle lies in staying creative within an industry where only a few are allowed to focus purely on the creative aspects. Most of the team works to support those few in making art. In independent and art-house cinema, we see creators achieving astonishing results with very low budgets due to their vast experience and creativity. The continuous challenge for all emerging directors is to be given the opportunity to prove themselves. However, aside from programmes like Directors UK shadowing, there are few opportunities for emerging directors to fully focus on directing. This is why many of us, directors, freelance and expand our skills through multiple routes, earning the freedom to express ourselves by creating our own opportunities. In the future, I aim to establish a fund to help independent directors and producers be taken more seriously and receive funding, even if they cover both roles. It's possible, as we often see actors becoming directors and producers because their celebrity status allows them to take on these roles without question. So, why shouldn't a young director with a decade of project experience deserve the same opportunities and funding?

What are your career ambitions? What is your plan to get there?

My career ambition is to continue producing and directing impactful films, particularly coming-of-age stories and period dramas, that resonate with diverse audiences. To achieve this, I plan to leverage my existing network and seek out collaborative opportunities with other filmmakers and production companies​​. I want to collaborate on new feature projects, and help new directors.
There is a feature project I aim to turn into a mini-Series, called "Feelings in Shadow", of which you can find more information here https://www.jaymanari.com/feelings-in-the-shadow/ If there is any bold producer out there will to collaborate, feel free to reach out.

What tips and advice do you have for those also on a similar journey trying to establish their film careers?

I created a course specifically to help young filmmakers stand out in the networking arena, available on Udemy—just type my name to find it. For those aspiring to establish their film careers, my advice is: don't wait for doors to open! Create your own pathways through projects, film festivals, and networking.

Invest in your education. If long-term courses are not feasible, consider short workshops to develop essential skills. Engage with creative minds and be open to new projects. Even if a friend's project isn't your dream gig, it can still bring you closer to your goals. So, say yes and seize those opportunities!

If you're the 'no film school' type, consider taking courses in art history or literature. Nurture your background knowledge and feed your ideas with inspiration. It's a misconception that no education is needed to work in film. While you can learn about every department on set, being a director is much more than just understanding what each department does. To have deep conversations about characters, symbolism subtly established within the production design, or even the meaning hidden into the pattern of an actor's clothing, you must be willing to learn.

The industry is challenging, and success often requires persistence and adaptability. Be resilient, as those without industry connections will face many obstacles and must prove their strength.