Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Trawick
Hi Matthew, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a 20-year-old independent film director currently working as an additional production assistant on “Special Ops: Lioness” Season 2 and “1923” Season 2. At 15, I was removed from my abusive home and placed into the care of my father, whose life was also upended. We ended up living in my grandmother’s house, sharing a converted garage and scraping by on a government food card.
I always wanted to make movies growing up. When I was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease at 16, a condition that affects the nerves in my arms and legs, I had to drop out of school due to their inability to accommodate me. This made it hard for me to take on regular jobs, like working at Starbucks or Sonic. We desperately needed money.
Even with these challenges, my love for filmmaking and storytelling stayed strong. I knew I had to find another way to pursue my dreams. With just a phone and a laptop, I decided to focus on writing and filmmaking. I put in a lot of time and effort, hoping that my hard work would eventually pay off.
My condition made me rethink how I could reach my goals. Instead of letting it hold me back, I used it as motivation. I worked with the tools I had and tried to turn my personal struggles into stories that could connect with others. This focus helped me stay on track and build a future in filmmaking, despite the obstacles I faced.
My teenage years were tough. While my peers had more stable lives—friends, jobs, and routines—I was focused on surviving with my father. When COVID hit, things got even worse. Job opportunities vanished, and my dad, an aspiring author, turned to storytelling as an escape. I began writing about my own experiences. By 17, I had completed a 160-page screenplay about our struggles, ending with me starting my journey as a director and making the very film you are watching.
I started networking on Facebook, Instagram, IMDb, and at film festivals, reaching out to make connections. I created test footage with the help of a videographer, producing a trailer that, while not very professional, attracted attention and support from people eager to get involved.
However, I dove into production without fully understanding its complexities, and it quickly fell apart. Balancing acting and directing responsibilities with little experience, coupled with financial strain, proved overwhelming.
Just a week later, I received a call to join “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” as a health and safety production assistant. The experience was surreal—huge sets, studio bells, horses, stunt wranglers, and extras. This opportunity opened my eyes, allowing me to make valuable connections and create lasting memories.
Since then, I’ve worked on “Landman”, “Walker”, “Special Ops: Lioness”, and “1923”. I’m now beginning to provide for myself and my family financially. I’ve also adopted two dogs, Maverick and Reacher. Maverick is an 8-year-old Husky-Rottweiler mix, and Reacher is a Border Collie-Pyrenees mix. Both have had the joy of being on set with me.
As I prepare to embark on a major feature film, I’ve learned that the greatest lives don’t come without the greatest struggles. Despite many mistakes and challenges, I’m finding my place in the industry and have been fortunate to experience numerous opportunities.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and If not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all, and I’m still facing many challenges. When I first started, I had almost nothing and was seizing any opportunity to create something. I often struggled to keep promises and complete projects. The journey has been tough, and I’m still working through those obstacles.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m currently gearing up to direct a major feature film that I hope will create many job opportunities in Texas and resonate with a wide audience.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who or what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My dad deserves the most credit. He has been my greatest supporter, offering unconditional love and standing by me through the toughest times.
I also want to acknowledge my Nana and Granny, whose support and affection have been truly everything.
Among the many who have played crucial roles in my journey, Aidan Hackwell stands out. As my director of photography and best friend, Aidan has been like a brother, guiding me through my mistakes and motivating me every step of the way. I am flying to Brazil at the end of this year to see him and I cannot wait. My story is still unfolding— This is just beginning.
These are some of the people who are with me, offering their support.
Victoria Kaster, whom I met while working on “Special Ops: Lioness” Season 2, has become a wonderful friend. Paxton Bradley has been a dedicated advocate for my dreams and an incredible person. I am also deeply grateful to Tyler Hardin, Matt Torres, Jesse Montague, Julie Bryan, Ed Craig, Meghan Elizabeth, Kenya Felix, Greggory Covington, Andrew Longoria, Belle Willi and many others who have shown me their belief and support. Each of these individuals has made a significant impact on my path—whether for a long time or a shorter period, all have contributed meaningfully. For that, I am profoundly thankful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattwarwickav
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mattwarwickav
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11937958/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
