How Stink Films cares for directors who care

Why is nurturing new talent such an integral part of Stink's mission?

It is very much our basic philosophy,  it's where I came from and the core of what Stink is about   - discover and build  artists - in our case directors, producers, photographers, writers, creatives,  designers, tech specialists etc.

Along with directorial skill, what else do you look for when thinking of  signing a director?

It’s so important that they genuinely care for the work  and what they are doing.

We look at their raw talent, their ability to work hard and communicate but also that they care. It’s so important that they genuinely care for the work.

Stink produced the YDA Charity Commercial Gold Screen winning film New Era, New Game, directed by LOOSE.

With such easy access to filmmaking technology now, has it become easier to find new talent, or is it harder, due to the amount of filmmakers and platforms out there?

Again, it is about recognising the talent in the first place, that's the key. The conditions are sort of irrelevant only the method changes.

Every generation has the impression that their times are challenged so it is always important to make meaningful and topical work that reflects that.

Once a director has representation, do you think there are now more opportunities for them to work, with the proliferation of platforms and demand for content?

There are more directors, so even if there are more outlets it is similar now, or even more competitive than it was before. Also there are fewer classic commercials so top directors are looking at a range of different opportunities now.

(Main image and above) The First Speech, Reporters Without Borders, was directed by Giordano Maestrelli through Stink and won a YDA Silver in the Changing the World Frame by Frame category.

We are living in a time in which young people face increasing challenges – financially, existentially even socially. Have you noticed if this is reflected in the type of content younger creatives are producing?

Every generation has the impression that their times are particularly challenged, but it is always important to make meaningful and topical work that reflects the challenges and strives to make our world a better place.

The YDA has been a very effective platform for years. It plays an extremely important role in supporting the next generation of creators.

Do you think a producer's role in the creation of a commercial is sometimes overlooked?

Maybe. But that's okay. The producer should stay relatively invisible while things are running smoothly. But of course producer is absolutely essential to the creation process.