Sebastian Sommer is a filmmaker best known for his electrifying debut feature film Dragon. Now available on VOD and streaming. Here is our exclusive interview with the filmmaker:
Q. Introduction – Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Sebastian Sommer: I am a filmmaker and writer. My debut film Dragon is a modern take on the fantasy genre and it explores myths. The film was made using AI technology. I’ve been drawn to dream logic in cinema. I had recently watched Last Year At Marienbad and it still holds up. I love watching movies that were made years ago that are still as striking today.
Q. Film Background – Can you share a little bit about your inspiration?
Sebastian Sommer: I grew up in the city. I was into fantasy novels as a kid and video games. I feel like I combined those two elements in this film. I wanted to make movies like James Cameron and Christopher Nolan. I went to film school, but I studied people, spaces, experiences. Eventually that became cinema. I had found my voice after a decade of working and it was just time for me to become me.
Q. Career and Achievements – What do you consider the highlights of your career so far?
Sebastian Sommer: Releasing Dragon is the highlight so far. This was a completely independent production, and I wrote, directed, and edited it. I was always meant to be a filmmaker, I don’t owe my success to anyone at this point. I felt like there were people in my life who were trying to tarnish me while taking credit for my success. It took stepping away, starting fresh, and rebuilding on my own terms. Being honest and authentic to myself. The responses so far have been great.
Q. Challenges and Growth – What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Sebastian Sommer: Early on, I was surrounded by the wrong people. I was really young and I was being used. I look back at some of my early short films and I disown them. I find them really embarrassing. Dragon was me trusting myself again and following my gut after other people tried to impose themselves onto my work.
Q. Hobbies – What are your interests and hobbies outside of your career?
Sebastian Sommer: I like spending time with my girlfriend. I like learning new skills. It’s good to find time to appreciate the little things in life. I enjoy spending time with my family that is nice to me.
Q. Milestones and Future Goals – What are some of the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years?
Sebastian Sommer: I plan on making another feature. I probably won’t use AI for this one. But I’m taking a break for a while. I’ve always wanted to screen a film at Cannes or win an Oscar.
Q. Life Lessons – What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your life or career?
Sebastian Sommer: You have to believe in the work before anyone else does. Don’t wait for permission. No one is going to just hand you the green light. At the end of the day, if your story is told well, it will resonate and you will find your audience. But you also have to work on your craft and push yourself to get there.
Incredible filmmaker I’m glad he’s finally getting his props