Young Guns 16: Neels Castillon
By Brett McKenzie on Nov 01, 2018
Showcasing the incredible winners of Young Guns 16
After months of decisions, discussions and debate, The One Club For Creativity is thrilled to unveil the winners of Young Guns 16! These 30 art directors, illustrators, filmmakers, photographers and designers of all types stood above all in this career-making, globe-spanning portfolio-based competition.
Ahead of the Young Guns 16 Ceremony + Party taking place on November 15, we are shining a spotlight on the various superstars who will be honored that evening.
Neels Castillon
Film Director
Paris, France
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What does being a Young Guns winner mean to you?
It’s a great honor, when I saw the finalists I realized there were so many people I really look up to, both contestants and in the jury. I still don't believe that I’m part of this class, it’s incredible! It’s both the first and the last time I will take part in this competition since I just turned 30! This makes the whole experience even more special.
It’s not easy to be a successful creative. What sorts of challenges have you encountered to get where you are today?
For me, the most important thing is to keep creating and coming up with new and inspiring projects, without being repetitive by doing something I have already done or copying someone else’s work just because it’s trendy. As a director, the hardest part of my job is convincing others that the risks involved in original projects are worth it. Teaming up with other passionate artists motivates me achieving energy-consuming projects.
How did you decide what six projects to submit?
I tried to choose a mix of projects. I find it quite difficult to judge my own work. There are films that are super personal and others that were commissioned, but it’s always work I’m very proud of.
Can you name any past Young Guns winners who you look up to, whose work you admire or are even inspired by?
I am a big fan of The Daniels (YG14). It’s quite different from what I do but they really surprise me every time and make me laugh so hard.
What keeps you going, creatively speaking?
Exploring new forms of storytelling. When I’m passionate about a topic, whether it’s a documentary, a commercial or a short film, I really want to address it in an original way, take a different approach that will surprise the audience so that they are really immersed in the movie. I’m just trying to hypnotize the audience, always!
Now that you’re a Young Guns winner, what’s next?
I’ll try my best to be an Old Guns winner next! (laughs)
The Young Guns 16 Ceremony & Party takes place on Thursday, November 15 in New York City.
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