Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Vargas.
Jonathan, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My journey to becoming a filmmaker started when I was 6, It all started when I was first introduced to Godzilla films as a child. That blew my mind. Those left a huge impression on me as I wanted to do explore the world of cinema. Then as I got older, I was introduced to Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino and Asian Cinema which convinced me to grab a camera and tell the stories that I want to tell.
I went to film school for a couple of years, but I really learn more about the film when watching it and being apart of a production whenever a film was being made in south Florida. Suddenly, I got tired of working on other peoples projects and wanted to create my own, that’s when I decided to create my own films. Since my first film, it has been a learning experience. Not only am I learning more about the fundamentals of film.
But, I am learning more about myself. Being involved in this world has shaped me into being someone who isn’t afraid to think outside the box and tell the stories I want to see. My goal when it comes to making films is entertaining the audience but also entertain myself. And every project that I do, I just want to improve my skills as a storyteller. As of now, since 2013 I have done 14 short films and one web-series.
I have won several awards throughout the years including for my latest short film “Side Effects.” Awards are great, but for me, the real award is when you’re introducing your film to someone who hasn’t seen or even know about your film, and they like it. That’s the greatest feeling in the world. That and seeing it play on the big screen.
Has it been a smooth road?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. But, if it was, I don’t think it would be the stronger person that I am today. Every film that I have done has had its ups and downs. Its too low budget, cast backs out, short on crew and etc. but, that what makes it fun, when you have to improvise and be creative to get out of a jam. It’s happened plenty of times but, I don’t let it get to me. If I did, I don’t think I will still be making movies.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Well, my company is Cinefreek Productions. We are a production company that specializes in creating short films. I am the founder and owner. What I am proud of is that we are five years strong and still creating content. I think what sets me apart from the others is my ability to adapt to different genres of film. Before we simply focused on creating crime dramas, but as time went on, we decided to do comedies, horror, romantic and etc.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
No, unfortunately, it’s not. Due to the tax incentives and since Florida is a right to work state. We don’t get a lot of big-budget productions coming our way. Most of the projects are usually TV commercials, music videos, and independent/student films. Rarely do we get big-budget productions filmed out here?
Which is a shame because there is so much talent down here in front and behind the camera that people have had to leave Florida to go find work in their craft. However, just because there’s not a lot of work in Miami, doesn’t mean people should just give up and wait for the opportunity to come by.
I encourage all filmmakers and actors to create your projects. With the advancement in technology, you can make a film with your phone. All you need is creativity and a team.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 9545340087
- Email: Cinefreekproductions@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citystar611/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cinefreekproductions/
Image Credit:
Eric Greaves, Christina Rodriguez, Valeria Nanetti
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
