Mars... Chops it up with #HipHopEverything

Today we talk to Mars… An independent filmmaker and photographer who has managed to put in some major work alongside some trending indie acts and major artists as well. His video editing skills caught our attention and figured, “It’ll be dope if we can chop it up with Mars…”

That said, welcome to 2015’s Indie Hotspot. Glad to have you here, so they call you Mars…?

[Mars]

Marshaun Anthony White is the government but most people know/call me (Mars…) And yes specifically with the 3 ellipses lol.

[H|E]

It seems like you always involved in something new. Is that part of the grind and where can we find some of your work?

[Mars…]

Always working on new projects and networking with different artists. The grind can never stop. Having too many projects is a good problem. Usually if the specific work/project isn’t on the artists Youtube/Vimeo channel or website, you can find new stuff on my website, http://www.FlightLifeFilms.com.

[H|E]

“Having too many projects is a good problem” I like that. It shows for a strong work ethic. Mars… How did life behind the lens start? What or who influenced you in to this lifestyle.

[Mars…]

​Well as far as photography/filmmaking goes it was genetically passed down in my blood. My grandfather (who has since passed) was a photographer for 45 years. He grinded independently before taking photos in the military & LAPD for years. Naturally seeing him work made me curious. Always been a movie head as well so that came hand in hand. And also growing up I’ve always loved music and hip-hop. I like many genres but growing up watching Hype Williams videos inspired my vision. He’s my all-time favorite music video director & Quentin Tarantino is my favorite movie director. As I got older and started to discover my true passion behind a camera its just all fell in place.

[H|E]

I’m with you. Quentin Tarantino is the best and Hype Williams kilt it with “Supa Dupa Fly” “What’s It Gonna Be” and “All of The Lights”. What separates your art, vision and work from the rest of the competition?

[Mars…]

​I think the main thing that separates me from the rest of my respectable competition is my overall creative package and vision. The consistency and content of my visuals have grown and gotten continuously better over and over thru the past few years. Even though I’m a “film director” I have that artist image that most think is a rapper. I’ve been told I stand out in the crowd. Most other filmmakers can be average joes but I feel my overall character and consistency speaks for itself.

[H|E]

I like that. I think consistency is key. It allows for practice, therefore better results and experience. What do the future goals of an independent filmmaker such as yourself entail?

[Mars…]

Well aside from making big MOVIES one day and shooting music videos with my favorite artists, I also want to be very corporate and business oriented with FlightLife Films. I eventually want to own a full production company office and camera equipment rental house. I would also like to be an Event Coordinator that assembles the film crew who covers media events & conventions. I wouldn’t mind owning a movie theater some day too haha.

[H|E]

Sounds like a full-fledged entertainment company to me. Lets keep in contact, I like where you’re going with it. What about recent accomplishments?

[Mars…]

Well one of the main things I’m proud of is just the respect and name I’ve made for myself over the past few years. It used to be just a fan but now I’ve worked with directly or filmed at shows for some of my absolute favorite artists. Most notably I want to thank Sir Michael Rocks for believing in me when he first moved to Hollywood and gave me a shot. I was damn near homeless during school but fam opened his crib up to me and gave me a spot to crash for a while during school and the grind. I’m also proud of just the overall business foundation I’ve created with my business along with the potential for big things coming at such a young age. I truly feel like I’m ahead of the curve when it comes to this independent film game. I don’t believe I will be just an average cameraman, but one of the rare great ones in the loop of the scene.

[H|E]

Damn. Feeling the story man. You got the right attitude Mars… This’ll definitely motivate anybody trying to a dollar out of 15 cents. What advice would you give artists overall who are trying to come up independently?

[Mars…]

Sacrifices, Dedication, and Faith. The thing most people are afraid of in life is stepping out their comfort zone and taking a risk. People don’t want to be broke or lose friends or lose sleep. They only see the glamour of peoples success and never truly understand or appreciate all the bullshit you have to go thru during the journey. Its all a process and staying patient will keep your sanity. Never measure your success based on someone else progressively making moves. Just do YOU, focus on your vision, network, and build. Believing in yourself is where it starts.

[H|E]

Ufffff, ok. “Never measure your success based on someone else progressively making moves” …I relate with that. That’s real. Mars… I appreciate you coming through. Before we part, shout out your A1’s.

[Mars…]

Shouts to my Day 1 fam P.Butta, T.Spoon, & Kristian Dior holding me down and still believing in the vision. You can peep out most of my work at www.FlightLifeFilms.com and for business inquires contact TheFlightLife@gmail.com.