Sharing and retelling life stories through written form is already a challenge, even for seasoned writers. And a director attempting to put those same stories to the big screen increases the difficulty level even more with the need to infuse elements such as audio, acting, scriptwriting, and more.
However, these struggles didn’t stop 2018 TFT Filmmaker of the Year Melanie Perez from realizing her vision as she led her team towards international accolades, including Best Director at the Emirates Film Festival for her film “Girl Next Door”.
Before Perez got into the arts, she first entered university through an engineering degree. However, she realized that it was in the arts where she felt fulfillment. After finishing her degree in Interior Design, she jumped at the opportunity to work abroad in Dubai where she met her husband and partner who supported her dreams: “My husband and I both started shooting weddings back in 2009 and established The MelRish Studio. We learned photography and videography through self-study by watching a lot of Youtube videos.”
From shooting wedding videos, Perez then thought of transitioning to films that tells stories which need be addressed within the society. “I also thought it was a chance for me to contribute to society through film by addressing a problem society faces – and at that time, I felt that low self-esteem was a problem most people face due to social media pressure,” said Perez.
She then decided to participate in Dubai’s 48HR Film Project and together with her team, out of their shared vision came “Aurora” which landed her accolades including 1st Runner Up, Most Promising Director Award, Best Actress for 2017 TFT Artist of the Year Danabelle Gutierrez and Best in Writing. The film was also an official selection in the London Monthly Film Festival.
Perez got her latest award as Emirates Film Festival’s Best Director through her film “Girl Next Door”.
Moving forward, Perez continues to inspire and equip fellow Filipinos with the right tools and knowledge so that they too can create award-winning films: “I have seen a lot of Filipinos struggle in expressing themselves and being creative. They are hungry for education and opportunity. I want to help the Filipinos by inspiring them and equipping them with the skills they need to excel. If I will be given the opportunity to train and teach them, I will gladly grab the opportunity.”
