In a recent podcast episode, Asha sat down with Riccardo Sai, a talented filmmaker, director, and producer, to delve into his journey, passion for storytelling, and the unique challenges and rewards of his work.
Riccardo's insights offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking and the power of stories to inspire change. Here, we break down the key themes and tips from their conversation, providing actionable advice and in-depth explanations to guide aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.
Background and Early Career
Riccardo grew up in Italy and moved to London over 20 years ago. His career in the creative industry spans several decades, during which he has always viewed his work as a paid hobby. This passion for creativity and storytelling has been a constant driving force in his life.
Transition to Ethical Storytelling
The pandemic prompted Riccardo to reevaluate his career and focus on projects that align with his values. This led to the creation of his company, "Storo," which specializes in moving stories for ethical and sustainable brands and organisations. This shift represents a new adventure for Riccardo, one that he is deeply passionate about.
The Allure of Moving Pictures
The Dynamic Nature of Film
Riccardo's love for film stems from its dynamic nature. Moving pictures combine various elements such as audio, art direction, styling, set design, and more, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling. This complexity and the collaborative effort required in filmmaking fascinate him, whether he's working with large crews or handling projects solo.
The Power of Collaboration
Filmmaking is inherently collaborative, involving numerous talents and skills. He enjoys the flexibility of working with both large and small teams, appreciating the diverse expertise each member brings to a project. This collaborative spirit is essential in creating compelling and impactful stories.
The Essence of Moving Stories
Riccardo shared a personal story to illustrate the concept of moving stories. He recounted a day when he was rushing to find a yoga mat and ended up sharing the cost with a stranger, thanks to the suggestion of a kind cashier.
This random act of kindness and the connection it fostered among three people encapsulates the essence of moving stories—stories that inspire action, connect people, and reveal the beauty of humanity.
Inspiring Change Through Stories
Riccardo's goal with his company is to tell stories that inspire change, educate, and connect people. He believes in the power of storytelling to create a positive impact, one story at a time. This philosophy drives his work and the types of projects he chooses to undertake.
Balancing Commercial Work with Purposeful Storytelling
Building Relationships
Riccardo emphasises the importance of relationships in securing projects. Many opportunities arise from connections made years ago, highlighting the value of trust and familiarity in the industry. Tight deadlines and high pressure make it crucial to work with reliable and known collaborators.
Attracting Like-Minded Clients
As Riccardo's purpose and direction have become clearer, he has attracted more clients aligned with his values. This alignment allows him to work on projects that resonate with his mission of inspiring change through storytelling.
Notable Projects
He has worked on various impactful projects, including documentaries on life and death, cancer, and female genital mutilation. These projects continue to be used and recommended by organizations like the Metropolitan Police and the UK government, demonstrating their lasting impact.
Recent Collaborations
His most recent work includes collaborations with sustainable brands like Icebreaker and Smartwool. He has also worked with a solar panel company, showcasing his commitment to projects that promote sustainability and positive change.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Filmmakers
Embrace the Complexity of Filmmaking
Filmmaking is a multifaceted art form that requires a deep understanding of various elements. Embrace this complexity and appreciate the collaborative nature of the industry.
Focus on Stories That Inspire
Choose projects that align with your values and have the potential to inspire change. Moving stories that connect people and reveal the beauty of humanity can create a lasting impact.
Build and Nurture Relationships
Relationships are crucial in the filmmaking industry. Build and nurture connections with collaborators, clients, and other industry professionals to secure opportunities and create a supportive network.
Stay True to Your Purpose
As you gain clarity on your purpose and direction, you will attract like-minded clients and projects. Stay true to your mission and let it guide your choices and collaborations.
Leverage Personal Experiences
Personal anecdotes and experiences can be powerful tools in storytelling. Use them to illustrate your points and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
To Find Out More
Riccardo's journey and insights offer valuable lessons for filmmakers and storytellers. By embracing the complexity of filmmaking, focusing on inspiring stories, building relationships, staying true to your purpose, and leveraging personal experiences, you can create impactful and meaningful work.
To discover more about Riccardo and his work you can visit his 🌎 website and connect with him on LinkedIn at 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/riccardosai/
S2 Ep 16: The Power of Storytelling in Filmmaking: A Conversation with Riccardo Sai