Shooting Star Salesman
By |Jessica Rohn|
Craig “Kico” Velarde set his sights on one goal after graduating from CSUSB’s Communication Department: becoming a film director.
He attributes his love for filmmaking to working with Instructor Mike Wichman who allowed him to experiment with the equipment after finishing assignments for the TV Production class.
He set out with big dreams and high hopes upon getting his degree.
After twelve years of working as an editor and producer for film, TV and the Web, Velarde became discouraged when he could no longer find steady work to provide for his family.
“I was a broken man,” recalled Velarde. Everything changed when he was approached with the idea for “The Shooting Star Salesman,” a story about a magical salesman who was determined to help restore people’s faith in shooting stars while simultaneously coming to terms with his own wavering faith thanks to the help of an eight year old boy.
Velarde couldn’t help but connect with the struggling salesman.
“He was a universal figure that most of us could relate to, especially now given our current economic times. I knew then what I needed to do: I would create my own opportunities, open my own doors, direct my own film, create my own path.”
The film’s message is a powerful one but relatable. The director wanted his audience to understand the importance of not giving up on dreams.
The short film has since received several awards, including the 2012 Film of the
Year award at the Georgia Latino Film Festival and the 2013 Silver Winner at the 34th Telly Awards.
It has also been an official selection for various film festivals throughout the country.
Having already adapted the script for a feature length film, Velarde is in the process of meeting with investors.
Although nothing has been set in stone, interest is certainly out there and the future continues to look bright.
You can view the trailer for Velarde's film at:
Craig Velarde
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