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Back to Basics With Indie Maverick Zack Parker

Writer's picture: Misfit ParadeMisfit Parade

This week on Filmmaker Friday, we were thrilled to sit down with writer-director Zack Parker, the creative force behind the 2013 cult indie hit Proxy. For those of us who walked the same halls at Ball State University just a few years after Zack, this was a particularly meaningful conversation. His ability to carve out a path as an independent filmmaker making bold, challenging films has long been a source of inspiration for us.



After a decade away from filmmaking, Zack is back with a new short film, Barista, shot entirely on 16mm film—a remarkable and rare choice in today’s digital-first industry. Beyond discussing the intricacies of working with analog technology, the writer-director shared details about the challenges he’s faced over the last ten years. From false starts on feature projects to navigating the often unforgiving business of independent filmmaking, Zack gives us a masterclass on the highs and lows of breaking into Hollywood.


Zack Parker’s Return to Filmmaking


Zack describes Barista as a love letter to cinema itself—a project born out of a desire to reconnect with the craft in the purest way possible. Inspired by a blend of nostalgia and ambition, he approached the short with an experimental mindset, shooting on film and editing with a hands-on, old-school process. The result is a piece that rekindles his passion for storytelling and positions him for an exciting new chapter.



For Zack, Barista isn’t just a return to form; it’s a reimagining of what filmmaking can be when approached without compromise. This project allowed him to fall back in love with cinema, creating art for art’s sake without the pressures of financial or commercial expectations.


10 Years Since Proxy – Lessons and Reflections


One of the highlights of the conversation was Zack reflecting on the 10th anniversary of Proxy. The film, with its unflinching exploration of human relationships and its innovative narrative structure, still holds a special place in indie horror fans’ hearts. He shared fascinating insights about the movie’s creation, from its shocking moments to its layered characters. He also touched on the surreal experience of revisiting the film a decade later with a fresh perspective.



For those wondering why Parker took a step back from filmmaking after Proxy, he explained that while the movie opened doors to meetings at major studios and agencies, it also revealed the limitations of the system. Zack's refusal to dilute his unique voice led to several projects falling apart in development. Rather than compromise, he chose to invest his energy into other pursuits while waiting for the right moment to return.


What’s Next for Zack Parker


The good news? Zack’s hiatus is officially over. With Barista making waves on YouTube and the festival circuit, he is gearing up to tackle his next feature—a body horror project with deeply personal roots. Like Barista, it will be shot on 16mm film, proving that his dedication to the art of cinema hasn’t wavered.


This upcoming feature promises to showcase Zack Parker's signature approach to storytelling, one that plays with structure, challenges expectations, and pushes audiences out of their comfort zones.



Key Takeaways for Aspiring Filmmakers


Zack’s career is filled with lessons for filmmakers at every stage:


  • Resourcefulness Matters: His advice to aspiring filmmakers is simple but powerful: Take inventory of your resources—whether locations, equipment, or connections—and build your story around them.

  • Adaptability Is Key: Despite setbacks, Zack continues to adapt and evolve, using each project as an opportunity to learn and grow.

  • Passion Drives Success: Staying true to his vision is non-negotiable, even if it means taking a longer, harder road to get there.


Watch Barista


Zack’s latest short, Barista, is available to watch on YouTube. It’s a must-see for fans of indie filmmaking and anyone curious about the magic of analog storytelling in a digital world.



Final Thoughts


This conversation with Zack Parker was more than just an interview—it was a masterclass in perseverance, artistry, and passion. His journey, filled with ups, downs, and everything in between, serves as a reminder that independent filmmaking is as much about grit and determination as it is about creativity.


Check out the full Filmmaker Friday episode now, and don’t forget to follow Zack’s work for more updates on his exciting new projects!


🎥 Watch Barista on YouTube🎙 Listen to Filmmaker Friday: 📲 Follow Zack Parker on Instagram: @thezackparker

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