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Cleveland native and filmmaker John Chuldenko ’98 has come back to his hometown to premiere his movie at the opening night of the 36th Cleveland International Film Festival. He took a moment to answer a few questions about his time at CIA and the influence his education had on his career. He also happens to be the son of CIA illustration professor and department chair John Chuldenko.

What was your experience like at CIA?
I worked in advertising throughout my college years. I studied in England for a bit, but spent most of my time at CIA. I had a professor, Dave London, at CIA who said "You should write," which, admittedly, is odd to hear at an art school. But I took his advice, and it's really served me well.

How did your time at CIA prepare you for your film career?
You know, critiques never really stop. It's important to learn to talk about your work in a compelling way. In my career, the professors have been replaced by journalists and audience members, but the skill set is the same.

I also think CIA is a place where you can be free to explore a little, and try disciplines that might seem unrelated to your major. That's a good thing. You never know where ideas will come from, often it's not where you'd expect. I studied glass with Brent Young for a bit and I still consider it some of my most rewarding time at the Institute.

What did you learn from your professors in communication designto help you launch your career?
I think critical thinking is stressed at CIA, and those skills help when you need to solve creative challenges.

Will your movie be premiering at the CIFF for the first time ever?
It will! “Nesting” will hit theaters and Video-On-Demand, and iTunes May 11th, so it was a perfect scenario to bring the movie here [Cleveland] to a festival that has such an amazing audience turn out. It's also quite special for me to screen it in my hometown.

How did your movie get chosen for the opening night?
I got a call from Bill Guentzler, the artistic director of the festival. He said they'd like to screen the movie for opening night, and I was very flattered. I think a comedy is a great way to start the festival.

Did your father play a role in your career? If so, how?
He's a good guy to have in your corner. Dad is always supportive of the creative endeavors of my sister and I. As anyone familiar with my dad knows, he's always willing to offer a critique.

What do you hope people will take away from your movie?
More than anything, I hope people enjoy watching it. I made this movie for audiences; it's a comedy about where generation X ended up, which, turns out is at Pottery Barn. I hope people have a good time!

Photo: John Chuldenko (left)