Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Dylan Duff

Award-winning actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist Dylan Duff became an artist to bring awareness to the causes and issues he’s most passionate about. He believes there’s no better medium to do that than through art, and he makes it a point that every project he works on has a message. Pop Culturalist caught up with this talented sixteen-year-old to learn more about his career, his new short Perspective, and founding his own company.

Career

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Dylan: When I was little, I used to make funny little films with my dad and cousins in the summer. We made a whole series of them actually: The Super Spies trilogy.

The trilogy consisted of Super Spies 1, Super Spies 2, and Super Spies 3. I know, super creative titles. [laughs] I would definitely say that those films really sparked my love for the film and television industry.

After we wrapped Super Spies 3, however, I sort of forgot about my passion for the arts until a few years ago when my cousin convinced me to be in a musical. After that, I got an agent and started pursuing an acting career. I got really into writing, directing, and producing as well about a year ago. I definitely have my family to thank for helping me discover my passion!

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Dylan: To be honest, I think the thing that has had the biggest influence on my career is my desire to make a difference. Everything I write, direct, or create in any way has some sort of positive message, or a theme that I think could help people.

I have always loved film and television, and it works out great because it is one of the biggest platforms in the world, which gives me the chance to speak up about issues I’m passionate about by making works of art.

This industry is the perfect intersection of my two passions: film/television and making a difference. I love having the opportunity to create a whole new world through my films where people can respect each other for who they are.

Perspective

PC: You’re making your directorial debut with your new film, Perspective. Tell us about the inspiration behind the short.
Dylan: Perspective tells the story of sixteen-year-old Oliver Davies, who struggles to forgive his father’s troubled past. The film takes place over one weekend as Oliver visits his father, Lucas Davies, for the first time since his release from prison. Over the course of the unsettling weekend, Lucas attempts to rekindle his relationship with his son while simultaneously running from his own past.

To be honest, it’s difficult to determine where my inspiration comes from. Some small thing will happen—I’ll hear a song lyric or have a strange dream—and all of a sudden, a story forms in my mind. I often sit down to write a script with no idea where it will go or how it will end. This was the case with Perspective. I know it sounds strange, but I tend to start writing and let the characters tell me where the story is going. When I’m writing, it’s almost like I’m acting out a story and playing all of the characters. I just need to put myself in the characters’ shoes and the story tends to unfold.

PC: In addition to directing, you also wrote and starred in it. How challenging was it to wear so many different hats?
Dylan: It was definitely difficult to take on all of those roles. There’s a reason that a film set is normally crawling with countless brilliant professionals.

Each aspect of filmmaking is intense, technical, and difficult. A lot of people don’t realize how much work really goes into it. We only had two people on set at all times in order to keep the production safe, as it was shot during the pandemic.

I did every job on set: cinematography, lighting, sound, etc. It was really hard and quite stressful at times, but I learned so much. It was amazing to have the opportunity to learn about every aspect of filmmaking while creating a piece of art that I could be proud of!

PC: What did you learn about yourself while working on Perspective, both as a person and as an artist?
Dylan: I faced a lot of ups and downs while making Perspective. There were multiple times when I was certain that I wouldn’t be able to finish the film, but here we are. I definitely learned that I can get through any challenges that come my way, both personally and professionally. I would also like everyone reading this to know that they can do the same. If you care about something, believe in it, and put your mind to it, you can do anything!

PC: You’re also the CEO of Purple Monkeys Pictures. How did that come to fruition?
Dylan: I decided to start Purple Monkeys Pictures, inc. to give myself the opportunity to continue making films, and telling stories that matter. Purple Monkeys Pictures is a production company that will create film and television that people can relate to and/or learn from.

I want to be able to tell stories that address our issues and cause viewers to look inward and examine how they see the world, and how they can make it better. Essentially I founded Purple Monkeys Pictures in order to have the opportunity to bring these stories to the screen and work with some amazing, talented, caring people to do so.

PC: Is it ever a challenge for you to manage your career and life as a normal teenager? Who or what has instilled that work ethic in you?
Dylan: It is definitely a bit of a challenge, but it’s worth it. I may not be able to do as many regular teenager things, but I’m so grateful that I have the opportunity to do what I love for a living, and the fact I get to do it right now is amazing. I want to make films that make a difference, and I hope to be able to change the world for the better in any way I can. That dream of helping people through challenging times or inspiring them to go after their dreams gets me through my own challenging times. I definitely have my parents to thank for my work ethic. They have always taught me to do my best and fight for what I believe in.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Dylan: Full House.

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Dylan: The Holiday.

PC: Favorite book?
Dylan: We All Fall Down by Eric Walters.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Dylan: Bye Bye Birdie.

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Dylan: Post Malone.

PC: Who would play you in the story of your life?
Dylan: That’s a tough question. I’m not sure. Maybe Matt Damon if he was a teenager. [laughs]

To keep up with Dylan, follow him on Instagram.