The Creative Journey of Mike Messier: From Indie Film to Literature

Welcome to a deep dive into the prolific and multifaceted career of Mike Messier, an artist who has consistently pushed boundaries across various creative disciplines. From award-winning independent films to captivating literary works, Mike's journey is a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and unwavering dedication. In this blog post, we'll explore the different facets of his work, examining his approach to filmmaking, writing, acting, and more. This article will be a companion piece to our latest episode, where we had the pleasure of sitting down with Mike himself to discuss his creative process. You can listen to the full conversation on the Tron Podcast.

Mike Messier: A Multifaceted Artist

Mike Messier is more than just a filmmaker or a writer; he is a true multidisciplinary artist. His creative endeavors span independent film, television, theater, literature, and visual art. This diverse range of interests and talents has allowed him to approach storytelling from various angles, resulting in a unique and compelling body of work. Mike’s ability to seamlessly transition between mediums is a testament to his versatility and his unwavering commitment to artistic expression. He is currently promoting his original artwork and the audiobook release of his coming-of-age novel, FIGHT OR PLAY BASKETBALL: Every Shot Counts.

Award-Winning Achievements in Independent Film

Mike Messier has made a significant impact on the independent film scene, garnering over eighty awards for his work in directing, screenwriting, acting, and TV production. His films are characterized by their bold vision, authentic characters, and thought-provoking themes. Mike's dedication to independent filmmaking allows him to maintain creative control over his projects, enabling him to tell stories that might not otherwise be told. He approaches filmmaking as a collaborative art form, working closely with actors, cinematographers, and other crew members to bring his vision to life. The awards and recognition he has received serve as a testament to his talent and hard work, solidifying his position as a leading figure in independent cinema.

Literary Ventures: Novels and Audiobooks

Beyond his work in film, Mike Messier is also an accomplished author. His literary works showcase his ability to craft compelling narratives and create memorable characters. His first novel, A DISTANCE FROM AVALON: When the Dying and the Dead Reunite, is a gothic horror/magical realism tale that explores themes of loss, memory, and the supernatural. The novel is accompanied by two evocative promo videos, “Many Keys: The Heartbreak Monologue” and “Seduction of Distance,” viewable on the 1 Mike Messier YouTube and Vimeo channels. More recently, Mike has ventured into the world of audiobooks, bringing his stories to life through the power of narration. This allows audiences to experience his work in a new and engaging way, further expanding his reach and impact. His audiobook, FIGHT OR PLAY BASKETBALL: Every Shot Counts, is available on Amazon and streaming for free on Hoopla.

FIGHT OR PLAY BASKETBALL: Every Shot Counts

FIGHT OR PLAY BASKETBALL: Every Shot Counts is a coming-of-age novel that delves into the world of high school basketball and the challenges faced by young athletes. The story follows a young basketball player as he navigates the pressures of competition, the complexities of relationships, and the search for his own identity. Mike Messier's firsthand experience with the sport shines through in the book's authentic portrayal of basketball culture and the dedication required to succeed. The audiobook version of the novel brings the story to life with dynamic narration, capturing the energy and emotion of the characters. It’s a powerful story about a young basketball player learning valuable life lessons on and off the court.

A DISTANCE FROM AVALON: A Gothic Horror Tale

A DISTANCE FROM AVALON: When the Dying and the Dead Reunite, is a gothic horror/magical realism tale that explores themes of loss, memory, and the supernatural. Set against a backdrop of haunting landscapes and eerie atmosphere, the novel tells a story that is both unsettling and thought-provoking. Mike Messier's vivid descriptions and evocative language create a world that is both beautiful and terrifying, drawing readers into a realm where the line between the living and the dead blurs. The accompanying promo videos enhance the novel's themes, offering a visual glimpse into the story's haunting beauty and emotional depth. The videos, titled “Many Keys: The Heartbreak Monologue” and “Seduction of Distance,” add another layer of depth to the novel and offer a new way to experience Messier's storytelling.

Acting Career: Sharing Scenes with Legends

In addition to his work behind the camera, Mike Messier is also an accomplished actor. He has had the opportunity to share scenes with some of the most respected names in the industry, including Meryl Streep, Elisabeth Shue, Wesley Snipes, Cybill Shepherd, Richard Jenkins, and Frances McDormand. These experiences have allowed him to learn from the best and hone his craft. Mike approaches acting with the same dedication and passion that he brings to his other creative endeavors. He believes in fully immersing himself in his roles, striving to bring authenticity and depth to his performances. Mike considers himself a character actor, thriving on playing unique and challenging roles that allow him to fully embody someone very different from himself.

Notable Acting Roles

Mike Messier has played a variety of memorable roles throughout his acting career. He portrayed Hank in Mr. Birthday, Delanty in The Mick and The Trick, and Vitali the Russian Curler in The Roaring Game. These roles showcase his versatility as an actor and his ability to embody a wide range of characters. Whether he's playing a comedic role or a more dramatic one, Mike brings a unique energy and charisma to his performances, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. He always seeks roles that challenge him and allow him to explore the complexities of the human experience. He believes acting allows him to inhabit different perspectives and tell stories from a variety of angles.

Writing and Script Consulting

Mike Messier's talents extend beyond directing and acting; he is also an accomplished writer and script consultant. His ability to craft compelling narratives and develop believable characters has made him a sought-after collaborator on various projects. He approaches writing with a keen understanding of storytelling principles, focusing on creating engaging plots, memorable dialogue, and relatable characters. As a script consultant, Mike provides valuable feedback and guidance to other writers, helping them refine their scripts and bring their visions to life. His experience in both writing and directing gives him a unique perspective on the filmmaking process, allowing him to offer insightful advice and support to his colleagues. He sees the writing process as integral to a successful film or stage production.

The Manor and Collaboration with Sully Erna and Kevin Nash

Mike was the lead writer for The Manor, a horror film released by Lionsgate. This project allowed him to showcase his talent for crafting suspenseful and terrifying narratives. The film's success is a testament to his ability to create a compelling story that resonates with audiences. In addition to his writing duties, Mike also co-starred in The Manor as Ole Bayton, alongside Godsmack’s Sully Erna and Kevin Nash (WWE’s Diesel, Magic Mike). Working with such talented individuals was a rewarding experience for Mike, and he credits them with helping to elevate the film to its full potential. The collaboration between musicians and actors brought a unique energy to the film, blending the worlds of horror and rock music in a memorable way.

Lennox Lewis: The Untold Story

Mike Messier also worked as a script consultant and voiceover writer on the acclaimed documentary Lennox Lewis: The Untold Story, narrated by Dr. Dre. This project allowed him to contribute his expertise to a documentary that explores the life and career of one of the greatest boxers of all time. Mike's role involved providing feedback on the script, ensuring its accuracy and coherence, and writing voiceover narration that would effectively convey the story's key themes. Working on this documentary was a rewarding experience for Mike, as it allowed him to combine his love of storytelling with his appreciation for sports and history.

Authenticity and Storytelling Across Mediums

One of the most striking aspects of Mike Messier's work is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. Whether he's directing a film, writing a novel, or acting in a play, he strives to create characters and stories that feel real and relatable. He believes that authenticity is essential for engaging audiences and making a lasting impact. Mike's dedication to storytelling is evident in his meticulous attention to detail, his willingness to take risks, and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. He sees storytelling as a powerful tool for exploring the human experience and promoting empathy and understanding. Mike consistently draws upon his personal experiences and observations to inform his work.

Engage with Mike Messier's Work

We encourage you to explore Mike Messier's diverse and captivating body of work. Whether you're a fan of independent film, literature, or theater, there's something for everyone to discover. You can find his films on various streaming platforms, his books on Amazon and Hoopla, and his visual art on his website. By engaging with Mike's work, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for his talent, his vision, and his unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling. We hope this blog post has provided you with a glimpse into the creative journey of Mike Messier. Be sure to listen to our full interview with Mike on the Tron Podcast to hear more about his experiences and insights. Thank you for joining us on this exploration of creativity and artistry.