‘LL: How did LPZ Media come about?
Kevin Lopez: John and I would always sit and talk about all things film related. From creative ideas to business ventures and strategies, the conversations would be long and extensive. I would have to say that John was the one that proposed the idea to formally create LPZ Media. I had been a part of a few other independent film production companies that did not turn out well, so I was a bit apprehensive about starting something new. Nonetheless, I felt that this time it would be different. It would be with my brother. So, in the summer of 2010, we went for it.
John Marco Lopez: We both had experience working with other production companies, but we came to the inevitable conclusion that the only way to really control the end product and put your signature on it was to work independently.
‘LL: What is working with your brother like?
Kevin Lopez: It’s great. It makes the difficult journey to get recognized and strike a chord creatively that much more exciting and personal. I have also learned a great deal from John. He has his MBA and an Economics degree, so he teaches me a thing or two on business strategies and systems. Also, we both love what we do, so our conversations are very fulfilling to me as an artist as well as a brother. We have a shared vision, and that’s very powerful.
John Marco Lopez: This line of work is very tricky and, at times, unpredictable. You find yourself working with various personalities—some great, some bad. Everyone has different motives and objectives. So, it’s a blessing to have someone who you can trust, and that has your back in difficult moments. He’s also very talented and resourceful, so I’m able to lean on his experience to execute tough jobs.
‘LL: Tell us about your work on The Inquisition of Camilo Sanz.
John Marco Lopez: ICS was our first full-length feature. We needed to break the ice and be a part of the motion picture medium. Films were the reason we entered this line of work in the first place, so we had to plant our flag. To say it was a learning experience is an understatement. It was a transformative moment in my life. We could finally call ourselves “filmmakers” and believe it.
Kevin Lopez: I served executive producer for the film. I not only helped John find the money to make this film, but I also oversaw the daily operations during the month’s prior and after production. John was certainly the driving force of the film, but I had his back in all aspects of the filmmaking process. From providing notes on the script, to hiring the cast and crew, I along with John, led the team to battle. It was one of the most incredible experiences in my life, one that I cannot wait to do again.
‘LL: The Inquisition of Camilo Sanz touches on the illegal immigrant struggle. How important was it for you to become involved with a film that discussed that issue?
Kevin Lopez: We pride ourselves in exploring themes and topics that are socially driven and contemporary. Like Pontecorvo’s The Battle of Algiers, we hope to make films that are relevant and provocative, cinematically scrutinizing the state of affairs of a particular culture, demographic, and overall society. The Inquisition of Camilo Sanz allowed us the opportunity to aggressively delve into a topic that is at the forefront of many political and ethical debates in this country. It’s a story that has yet to be resolved, which affects many New Yorkers, both legal and illegal.
