Interrogating the Creative Mind: Marco North, Cinematographer
In the bustling city of Moscow, Russia, a creative powerhouse named Marco North is making waves in the world of foreign dramas. Known for his multi-faceted talents, North is the creator of the critically acclaimed series WHALE, which premiered at SeriesFest 5.
North, an award-winning artist, wears many hats - creator, writer, director, and DP. His impressive portfolio includes recent production work with Skinner Street Films and a project for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina with Magna Studios, directed and executive produced by Marco Gentile.
WHALE, a project that North is most proud of, features his daughter in the main role and was shot with minimal equipment. The series, which has resonated with audiences, is a testament to North's innovative storytelling and technical prowess.
North's creative process is as unique as his projects. He finds inspiration from personal experiences and daily life, a testament to his ability to infuse authenticity into his work. Before embarking on a big project, North meticulously prepares, shooting tests, designing sound elements, and gathering key props and atmospheric elements.
In the realm of post-production, North relies on a suite of trusted tools. His go-to platforms include Avid Media Composer, After Effects, ProTools with a Universal Audio interface, and Mocha Pro for colour-correct, conform, and finishing. However, when it comes to specific Boris FX plugins, the exact ones North uses remain undisclosed, as no explicit mention could be found in the current search data. Further direct sources or interviews with North may provide more insight into this aspect of his work.
North's work is heavily influenced by the film Paris, Texas, directed by Wim Wenders. The film's narrative style and emotional depth have left a lasting impression on North, shaping his approach to storytelling.
If given the opportunity, North would collaborate with the artist Edward Hopper on a low-key narrative film. Hopper's evocative depictions of American life and his ability to capture the essence of solitude would undoubtedly complement North's storytelling style.
North's latest series, BLACKBETTY, has won best web series in 11 international festivals and has been screened at over 30 festivals. This success is a testament to North's ability to captivate audiences with his unique storytelling and technical expertise.
Despite his numerous accolades, North battles not with creative burnout, but with industry burnout. He advises his younger self to understand that there is a lot of misinformation and different definitions of success, and to trust the little voice in his head that says "anything is possible."
When he's not creating magic on set, North prefers snacking on almonds, manchego, and chorizo, as he avoids food that gets crumbs in his keyboard.
Marco North continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his unique storytelling and technical expertise. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's creative vision.
[1] Source 1 - Skinner Street Films Project [5] Source 5 - Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina Project
