When we watch a cult movie, we usually remember the actors, the director, or the studio behind it. But behind every great film stands an entire team of professionals without whom real cinema simply could not exist.
A few years ago in Hollywood, I had the chance to meet exactly such people.
In this photo beside me are two true legends of the industry – Monty Cox and Steven Shaw.
Monty Cox represents that classic era of Hollywood where films were created not on green screens, but in real locations, with live animals, dangerous stunt work, and incredible dedication. His career is connected to numerous iconic productions, from adventure films to major Hollywood blockbusters. These are the people who helped shape the spirit of authentic cinema.
Steven Shaw is a highly respected cinematographer whose Hollywood career spans decades, including work on Spielberg’s legendary E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. He worked his way up from camera assistant to becoming a member of the prestigious American Society of Cinematographers (ASC). Over the years he has contributed to many important film and television projects and has shared his knowledge with younger filmmakers through ASC masterclasses and professional mentorship.
Meetings like this are deeply inspiring.
They remind us that great cinema is built not only on talent, but also on discipline, teamwork, experience, and respect for the craft.
That is exactly why, for us as creators of the ECG Eurasian Film Festival and Burabay International Short Film Festival, it is so important to maintain connections between generations of filmmakers.
The opportunity to learn from people like this, to hear their stories, receive advice, and exchange ideas is truly invaluable. And even more importantly, this experience helps us support young directors, cinematographers, and creative talents from Eurasia who are only beginning their journey in cinema.
Real cinema is born where passionate people dedicate their lives to storytelling. And Hollywood still has the power to inspire through encounters like these.
Marat Akhmedjanov, the founder of the British publishing house Hertfordshire Press and patron of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London)
Festivals:
ECGFF: https://filmfreeway.com/ECGFilmFestival
BISFF: https://filmfreeway.com/InternationalBurabayShortFilmFestival
