Lukáš Šimandl

"Enjoy life, so that you have something to tell in retirement"
My name is Lukáš Šimandl and I like to laugh :- D
I started shooting after the war in 2000 and have been working on film since then.
In 2010, I founded the company Videojinak and started filming full time.
When it comes to wedding videos, I always thought that there are a lot of great videographers in the Czech Republic, their videos are luxurious, but... just too romantic for me.
And since I have a talent for entertaining people, I wanted to incorporate this into the wedding videos. And it worked. A lot of clients tell me that they totally enjoyed our shoot and we are happy for that. :)
I also like martial arts and sports, so you'll see a lot of them in my work as well. Whether it's recordings from Oktagon-type events or short action films.
But I like to laugh the most, so my band and I make a lot of videos to relax... we shoot the JÚTUBER JOŽKA project.
"My work is my hobby" ... Who can say that? … I sure do. :-)

Your project has been recognized in Prague International Film Awards. Could you please provide a brief overview of your project and its significance in the context of our festival?
I am Czech and I like the Czech Republic. So I'm thrilled that your festival is recognized around the world. And thank you for presenting the festival brilliantly.

What were the key criteria or qualities you sought in selecting actors to participate in your film?
This project of mine was a challenge for me because I not only directed the film but also played the lead role in the film. I cast local stuntmen for the other roles because the film is action-packed. It's a small film, but the actors put a lot of effort into it.

How did you collaborate and communicate with the cinematographer to achieve your desired visual style?
We chose a dynamic shooting style. No stabilizer, all shot handheld. We wanted the viewer to feel like they were part of the story. 

Can you elaborate on the choice of locations for your project and the significance behind those selections?
We filmed in the Czech city of Žatec. It is a beautiful royal city. Lots of movies were shot here: Yentl, Les Misérables, Jojo Rabbit, The Zookeeper's Wife and others.

An interesting fact is that on the exact same day that we shot the film, the town of Žatec was added to the UNESCO list.

From your perspective, what unique qualities or aspects of your film make it a compelling choice for potential distributors?
Action films are not shot in the Czech Republic, and we like action. All the actors, including me, are involved in martial arts. We hope to know it on film :)

Could you discuss the artistic elements or expressions you incorporated into your project, and how they contribute to the overall characterization of your work?
I love filming and I love martial arts ... we just put it together.

What initially inspired or motivated you to pursue a career in filmmaking?
Probably every director has a similar feeling... my love for films appeared at a young age and continues to this day.

Are there any particular films or filmmakers that have greatly influenced or inspired your own work? If so, what aspects of their work resonate with you?
Yes, sure. Director John McTiernan and his movie DieHard. It's great how slowly he doses the action and emotion.

Then I like Chinese blockbusters such as Ip Man or Fearless. Those filmed fight scenes are incredible.

And thanks to Steven Seagal, I got into Aikido. And this martial art is supreme on the screen.

What genres do you find most creatively fulfilling to work within, and what draws you to these particular genres?
I like the camera. A dynamic, action camera. And the direction is always impeccable:)

When you're not immersed in filmmaking, what are some of your other interests or hobbies?
I like martial arts ... Aikido, Krav Maga.

And I love to laugh, so traveling with a bunch of friends is perfect:)

Lastly, could you share any insights or plans you have for future projects?
We would like to finally make a big film with my team :)