Meet Cole Mihalich | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cole Mihalich and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cole, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I come from a small town, just outside of Cleveland, Ohio. Growing up in a close-knit community helped to foster a supportive environment which shaped many of my values and aspirations.

Education was certainly an emphasis, not only in the traditional sense but also in an artistic sense. I had the rare privilege of attending a public school with a relatively robust music program, which provided me with an outlet to express and explore. That same curiosity lent itself to other art forms which I would gravitate towards in later years.

Our town was surrounded by the beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This enriched my appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Spending time hiking and exploring taught me a greater respect for the world around me. As a filmmaker, I believe that living in such a diverse environment fed into my interest in visual mediums.

Growing up in a midwestern town also instilled in me the importance of hard work and humility. Many people around me worked tirelessly to provide for their families while maintaining a sense of pride in what they accomplished, no matter how big or small.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
All of us begin at entirely different experience levels. In my last months of film school, I realized the importance of recognizing the value of those around me. Everyone has their strengths. And every day, especially in school, you get a chance to learn from them. So, staying curious and open-minded has been one of the best tools for success thus far. The film industry is not for the faint-hearted – it is unstable, unsure, and sometimes unreliable. There are thousands of people, in this country alone, who strive for the same success. I believe, and I’ve been advised, that the most important thing you can do is to tell stories that are unique and important to you. The passion and commitment within your own voice will allow you to stand out.

Within film projects, I most often act as the writer and director. I often explore difficult, sometimes challenging characters. These characters may be compulsive, obsessive, or vain. On the surface, these characters may not represent our finest traits, and like all of us, they are flawed. But I hope by the end of each film, the audience comes to some understanding of these characters. I hope that the crew and I can work to transport the audience to live alongside our characters, to observe and experience their triumphs or their failures. I think storytelling is a way for us to understand each other. Everyone is different, everyone is complex. Storytelling is essential to reach an understanding of those who are most unlike us. To play a small part in one of its newest mediums, film, is endlessly exciting. To tell human stories, our stories is a true privilege.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
While I’ve only ever passed through the great city of Atlanta, I had the privilege of eating at the wonderful Fox Bros, which locals would say is old news! Beyond that, I would make a point to visit Piedmont Park for a bit of urban respite or get lost in the beauty of the Georgia Aquarium.

In addition, I think catching a Falcon’s game at the impressive Mercedes-Benz Stadium would be a worthy detour. As a self-certified burger aficionado, I would venture to Little’s Food Store or General Muir for a hearty dinner. And finally, as a filmmaker, I would recommend rounding out the day with a movie at the iconic Plaza Theater.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I am without the support system that I’ve been lucky enough to have, principally my mom and dad, who have both supported me in their own ways. My mom has always championed me, offering unwavering support in every aspect of my life. She’s always the first to celebrate my victories and encourage me through the toughest of challenges. Her belief in my potential has fueled my confidence, and her sacrifices for me have inspired me to work harder. Whether it be her practical advice, encouraging words, or patience, my mom’s support has helped shape who I am today.

Early on, my dad gave me a great appreciation for the medium I work in. As a photographer, he helped me through some of the more daunting technical aspects. Whether it be the emotional effect of a lens choice or just how to turn a camera on, much of the foundation came from his counsel. His dedication to his work validated the tenacity and resolve I would later adopt. Through a lens, I was able to look at the world a little differently. As an enthusiast of movies himself, he also introduced me to his personal favorites, continuously enabling my curiosity as a burgeoning filmmaker.

Later, when I began to attend film school, I started with fundamental knowledge and proficiency that allowed me to be a more effective and efficient member of the crews and classes I participated in.

Lastly, I want to mention two of my closest collaborators: Ethan Price, my co-writer/co-producer, and Brian Fink, a talented musician and composer. They’ve worked alongside me on nearly every project I’ve done over the years.

Website: https://colemihalich.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/colemihalich/

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/cole-mihalich-336602227

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@officialblankpictures

Image Credits
Layla Daoud
Blank Pictures