-Who is Swen Werner?
I find myself a bit of a paradox: a finance professional with a rich tapestry of interests ranging from the arts and electronic music to philosophy. Some might say it’s a bit eccentric, but I believe it just makes me human. “My Digital Truth” started as my personal quest for redemption during a challenging time, but it’s evolved into something much grander. I’m deeply fascinated by the potential of blockchain technology to reshape our interactions and market structures, making them more attractive to people who decide to stay away and giving everyone a platform to be heard. Art and storytelling are the creative forces that will guide us there.
-What inspired you to become a filmmaker?
The desire to explore and express the multifaceted human experience and our interconnectedness led me to filmmaking, a canvas where narrative, music, and visuals harmoniously unite. This creative journey culminated in my short film “My Digital Truth,” where I also penned a song that encapsulates the film’s essence and my artistic vision. This medium offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the human psyche, shedding light on the intricate tapestry that makes us who we are as uncomfortable as it may be sometimes. “My Digital Truth” is my creative outlet, allowing me to weave all my various interests into a narrative that explores human experience, technology, and our collective existence.
-Do you think the cinema can bring about change in society?
Absolutely. Films have the unique ability to resonate with people on a profound emotional level, challenging their views and opening their eyes to new perspectives. By highlighting different cultures, experiences, and social issues, cinema can be a catalyst for empathy, understanding, and awareness, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive society. That’s my hope, at least.
-What would you change in the world?
The movie “Bedazzled” serves as a cautionary and funny tale for me – the protagonist is granted seven wishes, but each one goes awry. With that in mind, if I could make a change, it would be to foster a world that fully embraces our diversity in every form. I believe in the mantra “you do you, but let me be me” but we all carry biases. I hope we continue to develop a collective spirit of forgiveness and compassion, although sometimes I am not too sure. Less theatre, more realness, I think that would be a good change.
-Where do you see the film industry going in the next 100 years?
From the little I know, it looks like that the film industry will undergo a significant transformation, with AI and other technologies making filmmaking more accessible and opening up new avenues for storytelling. However, as we integrate AI, we must carefully navigate the creative and ethical implications that come with it, ensuring that lose more than we gain in the process. Just as social media has altered the information landscape, our reliance on technology can amplify issues around content control and censorship. While AI presents a realm of narrative possibilities, it’s crucial that we remain vigilant in addressing the ethical considerations that invariably accompany such advancements.