Spotlight on Cinefilms: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at an Industry Leader
At GPN Network, we’re always excited to work with companies that are making waves in the film and production industry. Today, we turn our focus to Cinefilms, a Dominican Republic-based company that's not just making things happen but doing so with an unparalleled passion and commitment to excellence.
Cinefilms: "We Make It Happen!"
Based on their slogan, "We Make It Happen!", Cinefilms is a production company that specializes in providing exceptional production support services for international production companies. What sets Cinefilms apart in this competitive industry is their dedication to every project, big or small, and their ability to navigate the unique challenges that come with each production.
The Birth of Cinefilms
Cinefilms' journey started with a vision inspired by founder Angel P. Puello’s experience working with a Spanish company on tourism campaigns. This experience illuminated the need for a dedicated production support company that could handle the intricate needs of international productions. Angel saw an opportunity to fill this gap, and thus, Cinefilms was born.
A Culture of Passion and Excellence
What truly makes Cinefilms stand out is its culture. Described as an "amazing, awesome, passionate team," Cinefilms thrives on creating a friendly and honest environment where every team member can perform at their best. This strong, supportive culture is evident in every project they undertake, ensuring that shoots are not only successful but also enjoyable from start to finish. At Cinefilms, it's all about teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence.
The People Behind the Magic
Cinefilms is led by a talented and dedicated team:
Angel P. Puello - CEO and Owner, whose vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the company.
Mary Ferreira - Line Producer, who ensures that every production runs smoothly and efficiently.
Together, Angel and Mary lead a team that's always ready to tackle any challenge with creativity and determination.
Memorable Projects and On-Set Adventures
Cinefilms has a track record of handling high-profile projects with finesse:
Jennifer López / JLO Concert: Managing over 20 Alexa Mini cameras during the busy Easter period was no small feat, but Cinefilms rose to the challenge.
Baddies / Reality Show: An intense project that pushed the team to their limits, showcasing their resilience and expertise.
Spiriva: A smooth production that highlighted the team's ability to deliver flawless results.
Dream Resorts: A funny and challenging shoot that required quick thinking and adaptability.
Mr. Beast: A massive logistical undertaking involving coordinating over 500 people to clean a beach, demonstrating Cinefilms’ capacity to handle large-scale productions.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Lessons from the Field
Angel P. Puello, the founder of Cinefilms, has some remarkable stories from his early days in the industry that highlight both the unpredictable nature of film production and the intense experiences that shaped his career.
In 1987, Angel recounted his first job outside of his home country, where he worked as a camera assistant for a press team covering the transition to democracy in Nicaragua. He described being at a protest in a cemetery, where people were gathering to lay flowers at the grave of a slain politician. Suddenly, gunfire erupted, and the scene descended into chaos. Angel vividly remembered the sound of gun and machine gun shots filling the air, forcing press teams from around the world to drop to the ground, shielding themselves from the bullets. It was a stark reminder of the dangers journalists and film crews can face when covering volatile situations.
Another notable experience Angel shared occurred in 2013, while he was working with a Canadian broadcast crew on a story about a tragic incident involving a young boy who died while playing baseball. The boy's death was due to a dangerous practice where his trainer gave him B vitamins meant for horses, a common but risky behavior among lower-income athletes. When Angel and his crew arrived at the baseball field where the incident happened, they found it crowded with people. However, as soon as the crowd noticed the camera crew, everyone quickly dispersed. Within moments, Angel and his small team were left standing alone on the field. Sensing the tension and potential danger, they decided it was best to leave the area immediately for their safety.
These experiences have undoubtedly influenced Angel's approach to filmmaking, highlighting his resilience and ability to adapt under pressure, qualities that have helped shape Cinefilms into the successful production company it is today.
Leadership and Vision
As a leader, Angel Puello believes his greatest strength lies in his ability to get things done while ensuring client satisfaction. This focus on delivering high-quality results while maintaining positive relationships with clients is a cornerstone of Cinefilms' success.
Looking to the Future: Embracing Change
Cinefilms is not just focused on the present; they are also preparing for the future. With the rapid advancement of AI technologies, Angel predicts that the film and production industries will undergo significant changes in the next 10-20 years. Cinefilms is committed to staying ahead of these changes, ready to adapt and innovate.
Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability
Cinefilms has always placed a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, providing opportunities for young people who might otherwise struggle to break into the industry. They are also committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that their operations have a positive impact on the community and the environment.
Recent Developments and Achievements
Recently, Cinefilms has made significant investments to enhance their capabilities. They have moved into a new production office and acquired state-of-the-art cameras, lenses, and other gear. These developments allow them to offer even more competitive services to their clients, ensuring that they remain a leading player in the industry.
Challenges Ahead in 2023 and Beyond
As we look ahead to 2023, Cinefilms is aware of the challenges that the advertising and film industries face, particularly with the rise of AI. However, they are confident in their ability to adapt and thrive in this changing landscape.
Cinefilms’ passion for excellence and adaptability makes them a standout in the film and production industry. As they embrace new technologies and focus on diversity and sustainability, we’re excited to see them continue to make a significant impact. With a bright future ahead, Cinefilms truly embodies their motto: “We Make It Happen!”
Learn more about shooting in Dominican Republic with Cinefilms