Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffrey Karantza.
Hi Jeffrey, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Prior to my involvement in the film industry, I had a diverse background, working in various fields ranging from Carpentry to Fabrication and the Health Care Industry. My decision to move to Atlanta was driven by the desire to be closer to my family. Initially, I found work with a national finance company, but that changed shortly afterward.
The turning point came when my mother introduced me to Kathy, a friend of hers, who mentioned her son’s role as an Extras Casting Associate on a show filming in Peachtree City. Intrigued by the bustling film and television production scene in Georgia, I began exploring available opportunities and landed a job as a double for Burt Reynolds in an indie film shot in Atlanta and the North Georgia Mountains. It was during this project that I realized my passion for Film Production.
I started attending acting classes with GregAlan Williams and befriended the late Elliot Schwarts, who had a profound impact on my journey. Initially working as a Photographer for open casting calls and assisting with paperwork, I soon found myself pulled into the office on busy days, helping cast extras. Within two weeks of assisting, I was entrusted with my first film as an Extras Casting Director. Success led to more opportunities, and I ended up working on over a dozen films, collaborating with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.
An exciting milestone was working on Legendary Director Gary Marshal’s final film, “Mother’s Day.” As the years passed, I expanded my expertise, casting principal cast and extras for numerous shows from Atlanta to Los Angeles, including multiple shows for Tyler Perry, including the first “Madea’s Halloween.”
Through networking with other producers and directors, I ventured into the Producing world. My mentors, who were highly experienced in the film industry, taught me the ropes, and I honed my skills with indie Sag-Aftra Films before becoming a union signatory producer. Eventually, I took the leap and established my film production company, forging new partnerships and creating a Finance, Production, and Distribution company. This expansion allowed us to fund films and secure distribution deals with major theatrical and streaming distributors worldwide, as well as build connections with various studios across the globe.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The transition to my new career was surprisingly swift. Within just a couple of years, I had already worked on a substantial number of projects, and it felt like a seamless journey. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the challenges became all too real as production activities came to a halt.
At that time, I had recently launched both my newest company and a Non-Profit dedicated to training military veterans for careers in film production. Unfortunately, the sudden shutdown of the country posed significant obstacles in growing and establishing these ventures as valuable assets for the industry.
Thankfully, as we emerged from the pandemic and production activities resumed in full swing, the road ahead began to brighten. New projects are now coming our way, and we are forging meaningful connections with industry professionals each passing day. The future looks promising, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Osiris Films LLC came into existence through an introduction to a Line Producer via a mutual friend. Our first meeting turned into an engaging 5-hour discussion, covering various aspects of film funding, production, and distribution. It was remarkable how we shared the same vision for working within the industry and producing content that caters to a diverse range of viewers.
Our ambitions spanned from creating captivating Episodic TV shows to thrilling Action Adventures, and even heartwarming Faith-Based projects, with a focus on quality that resonates with the masses. The instant connection and alignment of goals led us to make a resolute decision to join forces and drive forward our shared agenda of delivering exceptional content for everyone to savor.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Seek out communities of individuals who are living the life or engaging with the world in a manner that aligns with your aspirations. These like-minded people can serve as mentors, imparting invaluable knowledge and opening doors to growth and achievement. Remember, it’s never too late to pursue your dreams or alter your path, provided you plan diligently and devote yourself entirely to your new goals.
Every journey starts with a single step, and progress is made one rung at a time on the ladder of success. Embrace the process, relish the path toward your dreams, and never lose sight of your determination. The most trying moments often occur just before breakthroughs, so hold steadfast and stay committed, as success may be waiting right around the corner.
Contact Info:
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