THE INTERVIEW

January, 2025

JON PAUL

DIRECTORS OF DOJO

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE

Jon, tell us a bit more about yourself. Where does your desire to be a producer come from?

I am a passionate filmmaker and martial artist with over a decade of experience in the entertainment and fitness industries. My desire to become a producer stems from my love for storytelling and creating impactful cinematic experiences. Producing allows me to bring stories to life while maintaining creative control over every aspect of the project.

What is your background?

I come from a strong martial arts background, having competed as a two-time Judo national champion and earning a 4th-degree black belt. I’ve also trained in multiple disciplines, which I incorporate into my films to bring authenticity and precision to action sequences. Beyond martial arts, I have years of experience in fitness coaching and have integrated this expertise into my filmmaking process, ensuring both myself and my team are prepared for the physical demands of action cinema. Over time, I have transitioned from being solely in front of the camera to taking on the role of producer, blending my creative vision with my passion for martial arts and film.

Does the action movie theme particularly appeal to you?

Absolutely. Action movies allow me to merge my passion for martial arts with filmmaking. There’s a unique beauty in telling stories through movement, discipline, and choreography. Action films are a universal language; the excitement, stakes, and character growth resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. My martial arts background gives me a unique lens to create authentic, dynamic action sequences that honor the art form while delivering compelling narratives.

What were your references for Dojo?

Dojo draws inspiration from classic martial arts films, action dramas, and my personal experiences in martial arts competitions. Films like Bloodsport, The Matrix, and The Last Samurai influenced my approach to choreography and storytelling. I also infused elements of personal discipline and perseverance, which are integral to martial arts, to create an emotionally rich narrative.

Jon, your film won Best Original Score at the RED Movie Awards. What does that mean to you?

Winning Best Original Score at the RED Movie Awards is an incredible honor. Music is a vital element of storytelling, and this award is a testament to the talent and creativity of our composer, Moises Pereira. It’s a recognition of how music elevates the emotional and cinematic depth of a film. This award highlights how Dojo is not just an action film but a well-rounded cinematic experience.

How did you work on the music with the composer?

Collaborating with Moises Pereira was a seamless and inspiring process. We worked closely to ensure the music reflected the tone and themes of the film. Moises brought his expertise to create a score that complemented the intense action sequences and the emotional depth of the characters. The result is a soundtrack that enhances the film’s impact and leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

I think your movie has a world record! Tell us more.

Yes, Dojo holds the world record for the “Most Awards Won by a Live Action Fictional Short Film,” with an astonishing 1,153 international awards and counting. This achievement reflects the film’s universal appeal and the dedication of everyone involved in its production. It’s also a testament to the global appreciation of martial arts cinema and its ability to connect across cultures.

Dojo has been officially recognized by several world record organizations, including:

Explain to us your working method with the director Armin Alic.

Armin and I share a great synergy in filmmaking. We collaborated closely to align the vision for Dojo, from pre-production to the final edit. Armin’s expertise in directing action sequences allowed us to craft visually stunning and impactful scenes. Our mutual respect and understanding helped us push boundaries while ensuring every scene stayed true to the story.

Do you have an anecdote to share with us in particular?

One memorable moment was during the filming of an intense fight scene. I performed all the stunts myself, and the shoot lasted well into the night. Despite the physical challenges, the energy and dedication of the team kept everyone motivated. This experience reminded me why I love martial arts and filmmaking, the combination of passion, hard work, and perseverance.

What is your next project?

Following Dojo’s success, I’m currently developing a feature-length adaptation of the film. This project will expand on the characters and themes introduced in Dojo, taking the story to new heights. Additionally, I plan to continue producing films that celebrate martial arts and inspire audiences worldwide.

For more about Dojo and its achievements, visit https://dojothefilm.com