True Success Lies in the Details of How You Execute: Michael Foster
In the vibrant city of Charlotte, NC, a dynamic force is reshaping the landscape of film, writing, and design. In this exclusive interview with Michael “Lyfelong” Foster, we delve into the creative genius behind the lens, exploring his inspirations, challenges, and personal growth.
Foster’s journey as a filmmaker has been nothing short of extraordinary. It is marked by expertise and acclaim that have left an indelible mark on the cinematic world. Garnering numerous accolades, his filmography includes the Best Socially Conscious Film Award for the impactful ‘When Tables Turn,’ the prestigious Grand Jury Award for the compelling ‘Evelyn Black,’ and a string of rave reviews for the thought-provoking short film ‘Subconscious Whispers’ showcased at the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.
His latest masterpiece, ‘A Social Love Affair,’ serves as a catalyst for discussions on the profound impact of social media on modern relationships. So, let’s get this conversation started!
Please tell us about your background and the factors that led you to choose a career in the creative industry?
I became aware that I’d be in the creative industry at summer camp around ’90-’91. My camp counselor started free styling and I was amazed because it was my first time I was seeing anyone do that. He’s the person who told me I should start writing my own rhymes. We used to have talent shows at the end of the sessions, and I’d perform on stage with the fellas. That rush, of creating something and watching people enjoy it, changed my life forever.
In high school, I had a TV Production class that did the school news broadcast. I didn’t realize it at the time, but this would lay the foundation for my career. Outside of the newscast, I was given the artistic freedom to write skits, direct, produce, and act as well.
What was the most challenging project you’ve worked on and what strategies you used to overcome the obstacles while working on it?
The most challenging project I’ve worked on is one of my feature films, ‘A Social Love Affair’ by far. It was my first narrative feature and I decided to take on way more responsibilities than I should have, to keep the budget as low as possible. I wrote, directed, produced, edited, and played the lead in that film. On top of that we had an ensemble cast that had the craziest schedules. The film ended up taking four years to complete. By the time we got to the premiere I was burnt out and physically sick. But what I learned during that process was to lean on and trust your team more.
You have achieved success for your films in the form of awards. Which of your films are you most proud of?
For all of the reasons stated above, ‘A Social Love Affair’ is the one I’m most proud of because you don’t know you can do a feature, until you do a feature. We had the premiere in February 2019 at Studio Movie Grill to start the NBA All Star festivities in Charlotte that year. The city of Charlotte really came out and made it a heck of a night. Even with me fighting a temperature of 102, it was my proudest moment as a filmmaker.
In the context of entrepreneurship, could you discuss your personal growth.
My growth as an entrepreneur has been a journey. I’m such a creative that is always inspired to create that at times handling the business could seem like a chore. The beauty of knowing how to handle so many different jobs is now when I hire people to do those jobs, I have full knowledge of what it is I’m expecting of them. I’ve always prided myself on learning and retaining the knowledge necessary to start and run a successful business. Everything from creating the LLC to filing trademarks.
My word of the year is Execution because true success lies in the details of how you execute.
Who do you consider as your biggest role model?
One person that I watch closely to model my career after is Ice Cube. He started writing for his rap group, and eventually wrote some critically acclaimed solo projects. He also started writing, acting, and producing his own films. The way he’s managed to have success in the music and film industries doesn’t get talked about enough. His career in film started in 1991 and he’s either produced and/or acted in at least one film on average every year since then. That’s crazy!
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