By Orestes Matacena — Cuban-Born Actor & Filmmaker

Directing brings your creative vision to life — the camera, the performances, the pacing and rhythm of the story, even the space. That first time calling “Action!” can be thrilling and intense. When I directed Tainted, I learned lessons that shaped not only my filmmaking but how I collaborate with everyone on set. Subsequently, SexGunsMoney@20, In Plain View, and Two de Force, each had unique experiences that built on the previous movie.  Here’s what truly matters when you step behind the camera.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

Preparation is the difference between chaos and creativity. Before production on Two de Force, I built my blue print for directing the entire movie; the detailed shot lists, visual references, and character notes so I would have a concrete plan to share with the crew, primarily the cinematographer. The location could change, lines, circumstances, anything goes in an independent production. Strong planning gives you the flexibility to adapt when challenges arise — because something unexpected always will, and it did.

Collaboration Is Key

Filmmaking is a team effort. As a director, your vision must inspire others, not overpower them. On Tainted, I surrounded myself with a small but passionate crew who believed in my leadership and followed my plan. The movie was originally written to take place in New York, and when I raised the money to shoot it in North Carolina, I was willing to modify the story and make a new plan. I put the team together, cast and crew, with my producer, and everyone involved gave a 100% effort to make the movie great. And great things do happen when talented people exercise faith in the project and work seamlessly together as a team.

Lead with Confidence and Calm

Leadership and positive attitude set the tone for the movie. Actors take emotional risks only when they trust your leadership. I’m an actor myself, so I’m sensitive to the actor’s process, whether I’m working with newcomers or seasoned performers. I try to always keep communication clear and energy positive. Yes, sometimes a shoot can be tense, hurried, maybe technical issues arise. The director’s calm and confidence come from being a good leader that is prepared. And being a good observer and listener also helped make me the anchor that held everything together. Belief in your vision will spill over to the entire team.

Protect the Emotional Truth

Don’t forget the heart of the scene. It’s easy to get lost in lenses, lighting, and schedules. On In Plain View, I always needed to stay true to the story I aimed to tell. It wasn’t just a drama with action, chases, and shootouts. There was an emotional truth about the main characters and the story’s message. I made a political statement to make the audience think, not just push buttons. No matter what we executed technically, all the moments leading to the exciting finale remained honest.

Keep Growing

Every project will teach you new lessons. Watch other directors, study your footage, and stay curious. Directing is an evolving craft; each film — from Tainted to Two de Force — leaves behind a blueprint for the next one. Keep sculpting yourself as a director and build the layers. You will grow and be better with each new project. And then you will look back and be amazed at your journey.

Final Thought

Directing is less about control and more about guidance. Check ego at the door. The best filmmakers shape a space where everyone can contribute their best work. Prepare and plan well, listen deeply, and always serve the story.
Discover more about my films Tainted, In Plain View, and Two de Force, and others listed on my IMDb profile and my website www.OrestesMatacena.com.