In the world of independent cinema, few figures have made as significant an impact as Ioannis Koutroubis. With a career spanning over 17 years in visual media production, Koutroubis has earned over 120 international awards, solidifying his reputation as a visionary filmmaker, author, and educator. His books, The Horror Filmmaker’s Handbook and The Art of Documentary Filmmaking, serve as essential guides for aspiring directors, offering insights into both horror and documentary storytelling. As the Director of the Film and Television program at Trebas Institute, he has dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation of filmmakers, instilling in them the values of perseverance, discipline, and artistic integrity. In this exclusive interview, Koutroubis reflects on his journey, the lessons he has learned, and the creative ambitions that continue to drive his work in the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.

Your career spans over 17 years in visual media production. Looking back, was there a defining moment that solidified your passion for filmmaking

In the last 17 years the biggest moments were during Covid, the lockdown really tested us and made me focus more on the fundamentals of early Hollywood Classical movie making.

With over 120 international awards to your name, how do you measure success in filmmaking—by accolades, audience impact, or personal growth?

It is by far personal growth. That is the most important to me. It has always been me versus me and that keeps me sharper and train harder and study more. I wish I learned this lesson while I was younger but it is something I try and bestow on my students.

Your books, The Horror Filmmaker’s Handbook and The Art of Documentary Filmmaking, provide invaluable insights into two vastly different genres. What draws you to both horror and documentary storytelling?

Both are good foundations for indie filmmakers’ first work. I hope those books can help young filmmakers raise their game higher.

As the Director of the Film and Television program at Trebas Institute, you’ve mentored countless aspiring filmmakers. What’s one piece of advice you always share with your students?

That it will not come easy. That they are not The Chosen One. They need to practice their skills and nothing is given in film, it is earned.

The independent film industry is often a challenging space, yet you’ve thrived in it. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about perseverance in this industry?

Patience is a great skill and something that is not spoken about as much as it should. 

Having received recognition from prestigious institutions like the New York Movie Awards and Hollywood Indie Film Critics Awards, what was one award or moment of recognition that truly meant the most to you?

It would be the first award that I won. I realized that I was not alone in believing in myself. I just needed someone to believe in me before I could fully believe in myself.

Filmmaking is a deeply personal craft. How do you balance staying true to your artistic vision while also considering audience expectations and industry trends?

I remove all the noise in my head and create projects that I would enjoy. I strongly believe we are all connected so by connecting to ourselves we also connect to the world.

You’ve built an impressive legacy not only as a filmmaker but also as an educator and author. Looking ahead, what’s one dream project—whether film, book, or initiative—you hope to bring to life?

I would love to make a version of Superman that we have not seen on film yet, or King Arthur.

Independent cinema often thrives on pushing boundaries. What themes or ideas do you believe are currently underexplored in contemporary film that you’d love to see more of?

I think we can use more love stories as we have lost a sense of what love is with living in a time where you have access to everything in the palm of your hands.

With your extensive experience, if you could give one piece of advice to your younger self at the start of your career, what would it be?

The calvary is not coming, you must become the calvary.