Spotlight: Dean Midas

One could argue that Rudolph Valentino, the silent film icon, and the legendary King Midas of ancient myth, don’t have any connection at all. Nothing could be more wrong. Both figures, separated by eons, share a common thread in their association with allure and opulence. Valentino, the epitome of silent screen charisma, evoked a magnetic charm that turned heads and hearts. Similarly, King Midas, steeped in mythological tales, possessed that legendary touch that turned everything to gold. The connection lies in their ability to captivate, be it through Valentino’s on-screen charisma or King Midas’ golden reach. They, in their own domains, became symbols of desire and excess, leaving an indelible mark on the collective imagination.

And imagination is also something Dean Midas Maynard at Dean Midas Films is working with.

This award-winning film producer from Northern England has been around on Shortly for awhile with some outstanding horror shorts and for this Valentine’s Day were going to highlight a couple of his films.

We got an opportunity to ask him about the films and also what he thinks about the short film format as a working tool.

Shortly: Tell us about Eve Valentine

I originally wanted Eve to be a Christmas killer, but at the last minute I changed it. Then, rather than have it on the world’s most romantic day itself, I made it Valentine’s Eve and Eve Valentine was born.

Shortly: Do the films reflect your personal relation to Valentine’s Day?

My own Valentine’s Day experiences have been very good, but when inventing Eve Valentine, I thought how this day would be for someone, if it brought back a bad experience or total heartbreak.

Shortly: What is your tip to people that do relate themselves to the stories in the films?

Keep positive and keep happy. Good times are just around the corner.

Shortly: Why short films?

Not everyone has the equipment, budget, or time to make a feature length film. That’s why short films are so priceless to our industry. It means we can all make our dreams become reality.

Shortly: When can we expect a new film from Midas?

I will return with my new film called Eve Valentine on Friday 26th April 2024. This will look into Eve’s early life and what made her become the person that she is today.

I absolutely love film-making, It is long days into nights and at times it can be very stressful but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I love scaring people and it’s an amazing feeling seeing your finished film from script on to the screens.
-Dean Midas