Zugzwang

ABOUT PERLA JOE

I was born in a small country containing 18 sectors of religion, known to be invaded by the french colony where the true french roots and culture remain. I grew up surrounded by political and religious divisions. At the age of 14, I traveled to California for a while. There was a turning point, being exposed to a new country, a new culture, and a new vision perceiving life from a completely different point of view, I fell in love with what you can capture while discovering this earth. At that time I was given my first camera marking the beginning of a lifelong love for its shutter.

After completing technical school with an Interior Design Diploma, I decided not to let go of my love to the sound and image. So I switched to Filmography. My professional life began as a production coordinator, upgrading to a production manager then explored the casting at Clandestino Films, one of the finest production houses in the Middle East, as chief of department for almost two years.

I developed a passion for the big screen, repairing yet disturbing our perceptions through words, image and sound using multi-screen slideshows, manipulating and floating on humans mental abilities.

During my five years studying at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik - USEK in Lebanon, I was lucky enough to shoot my German short Zugzwang for my debut as a scriptwriter, director & filmmaker using my experience as a producer and a casting director as a plus. I graduated with a BA in Fine Arts in Film 2015. Zugzwang has been screened in more than 10 festivals around the world.

I'm committed to fulfilling the client's vision in a creative and compelling way that compliments the script and that lets the audience evolve and revolve around that feel, while being a strategic and efficient team player succeeding all projects, on and on budget.

Currently I'm based in Lebanon and travel often to various destinations shooting commercials, experimentals and shorts.
I bring a passionate, genuine love of quality filmmaking, a solid constitution and a drive for the unachievable excellence.
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