Today we’d like to introduce you to Giovanni Cristoff.
Hi Giovanni, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been performing since I was a toddler. If I saw a Stage, I wanted to get on it and perform! When I was 2 , I jumped on a Stage in NYC on an Off-Broadway Show, while the Actors were performing. The Actors made me part of their show!!!
If we drove by a random Film Set, I wanted to get out of the car because I thought I was working.( I was 6.) I would jump on stages and dance in Disney Springs, and in Bayside Market Place. Everywhere I performed people would tell my parents, that I was an old soul, and I will become an Actor. They were right!!
At 5 , I would write scripts, and direct my friends in plays that I wrote. But it was in 1st Grade, when I did my first talent show at Panther Run Elementary School. The feeling that I got performing along with the hundreds of audience members cheering on; I knew that the Stage is where I belonged.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The film industry is a hard business, but we play a hard game, so it evens out.
Part of my story has been having multiple Major Networks and Major Movie Studio projects wanting to cast me, but eventually going in another artistic direction. Usually stars. They have said that they love my work and that they’ll always have their eyes out for me; And they really have! As part of every business, everyone gets their big break and will get their turn. It’s just time to roll up my sleeves and be a Star. Thats it. Nuff Said.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am known for my role as “Javi”, in ,”Can You Feel the Beat;The Lisa Lisa Story.” It is a Biopic about Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam ,starring, Jearnest Corchado, Bre Z , Lisa Velez, and Angie Martinez. It is part of Lifetimes ,”Voices of a Lifetime ” Series about Singers such as Mary J. Blige, Lisa Lisa, and Gloria Gaynor.
Recently, I am known for my role as ,”Pedro” in the Feature Film ,”Aguadilla”, starring Lou Diamond Phillips, Alina Roberts, and Rene Moran. The movie is in both English, and Spanish. I am proud to have performed in Spanish opposite Lou Diamond Phillips.
Multiple Productions, Directors, and Writers have praised me for my authentic, raw portrayals of my version of the scripted character; And how much complexity I contribute to the overall story. That is my sole dedication and I’m glad I gave them what they wanted, my way. That is true collaboration and what I am most proud of.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Find people in your industry who are winning, and ask them questions. I have learned a great deal from other Professional Actors, and Film Makers. Also make it a point to attend all networking events in your field.
As an Actor, I attend as many Film Festivals ,Workshops, and Acting classes where networking organically happens. It’s been a great experience where I meet new people and learn from others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12364337/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giovanni_cristoff/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090350340825
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMsNIFKnMABN6E6UvkmR2Ew
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-629962647
Image Credits
Head Shot and Red Carpet by Alberto Tamargo for Miami Film Festival
Behind the Scenes- Soi Fabulous
