Lifestyle Notes - Dmytro Avdieiev

We're excited to introduce our new feature – Lifestyle Notes. In this series, we’ll be exploring the lives of fascinating individuals from different fields and their unique approaches to lifestyle.

The guest of the latest Lifestyle Notes edition is film director Dmytro Avdiiev. In our conversation, he shared insights into his creative journey, revealed his favorite filmmaker, and named a film adaptation he believes surpassed the book. We met at a bookstore in Kyiv, where Dmytro recommended five books to inspire aspiring directors.

Do you remember the moment you realized you wanted to make films?

I spent most of my career as a TV host, with the last five years being an incredible experience at MTV Ukraine. But at some point, I realized I no longer wanted to be part of someone else’s vision—I wanted to create my own world. That’s when I enrolled in a course at the London Film Academy, shot my first short film, and began my journey as a director.

Is there a film adaptation you think turned out better than the book?

Oh, that’s always a controversial question! After all, we all have different tastes and imaginations. I think we should stop comparing books and films—they’re different mediums. Books will always offer deeper and more detailed storytelling, but there are truly outstanding adaptations. In my opinion, Harry Potter and the latest version of Dune are great examples. Another well-done adaptation is Big Little Lies—the first seven episodes are based on Liane Moriarty’s novel of the same name.

Your favorite director is Tarantino, just like your channel’s name?

I do love Tarantino’s work, and he’s definitely one of my favorite directors. But the name of my channel came about differently. Whenever I told people I was a director, they’d immediately go: “Hey, Tarantino! So, how do they shoot movies?” And that’s how the idea for the name was born.

"Whenever people asked me what I do and heard 'director' in response, they would immediately go: 'Hey, Tarantino! So, how do they shoot movies…?'"

"Observing one of the most extraordinary journeys in music and film is another way for a director to gain a deeper understanding of their craft."

"I realized I no longer wanted to be part of someone else’s vision—I wanted to create my own world."

Can you recommend five books to inspire future directors?

1. Greenlights – Matthew McConaughey
Finding truly engaging books on filmmaking can be tough. That’s why I always recommend something like Greenlights. McConaughey’s life journey offers invaluable lessons for directors—both in personal growth and working with actors.

2. The Black Council – Panteleimon Kulish
If you’re looking for something to adapt into a film, it’s time to pay attention to this novel.

3. Will – Will Smith
Following one of the most fascinating careers in music and film is another great way for directors to gain deeper insight into their craft.

4. In the KINO Circle – Volodymyr Voitenko
Based on articles published in KINO-KOLO magazine (1997–2008), this book introduces readers to the most influential figures in Ukrainian and global cinema. It’s essential reading for anyone who dreams of making films in Ukraine.

5. The Winners – Fredrik Backman
Imagination, characters, dramaturgy—everything in this book is incredible. It will inspire you to shape your future film characters in the best way possible.