From graduating from the LFA Filmmaking Diploma (now the BA (Hons) Filmmaking Degree) in 2018 to working as an Assistant Director on some of the world's biggest productions, Gianmarco Formica's career is a testament to persistence, passion and making the most of every opportunity.
The LFA alumnus has contributed to major international productions including Indiana Jones, Fast & Furious, Red Notice and most recently Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated epic The Odyssey.
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We sat down with Gianmarco to discuss his journey into the film industry, the lessons he learnt at LFA and what it's really like working on blockbuster productions.
Falling in Love with Filmmaking
For Gianmarco, a career in film felt almost inevitable.
That hands-on approach was exactly what he found at LFA.
Looking back, he says choosing London Film Academy was an easy decision.
From directing short films to collaborating across departments, Gianmarco describes his time at LFA as an immersive experience where students don't just learn filmmaking - they live it.
Breaking into the Film Industry
After graduating, Gianmarco returned to Rome and began working as a Production Assistant in the props department. Although grateful for the opportunity, his ambition was always to become an Assistant Director.
Breaking into the role wasn't easy.
Rather than giving up, he contacted Assistant Directors across Italy, determined to create his own opportunities.
Many went unanswered. Others ended in rejection. But Gianmarco kept going.
Eventually, a First Assistant Director remembered the impression he had made during an earlier meeting and offered him a role on his first major international production.
It was a turning point that proved persistence can be just as important as talent.
From LFA to The Odyssey
Years of hard work eventually led Gianmarco to one of the most anticipated productions in modern filmmaking - Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey.
After establishing himself across several major productions, he was recommended by another Assistant Director and invited to interview for the project.
Even after securing the role, the experience felt surreal.
Working alongside Christopher Nolan and an acclaimed cast, Gianmarco helped coordinate scenes on one of the industry's biggest productions.
Despite the scale of the project, one lesson remained the same.
Whether on an independent student film at LFA or a Hollywood blockbuster, filmmaking is built on collaboration, communication and teamwork.
Advice for Future Filmmakers
Reflecting on his journey, Gianmarco believes resilience has been one of the biggest contributors to his success.
His advice to current LFA students is simple:
He encourages aspiring filmmakers to seize every opportunity, even when they feel outside their comfort zone.
Above all, he believes professionalism and kindness leave a lasting impression.
Looking Ahead
Gianmarco's career continues to go from strength to strength. Alongside working on major international productions, he is now focused on achieving his next goal - becoming a First Assistant Director.
His journey from an aspiring filmmaker at London Film Academy to working on Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey reflects the opportunities that practical training, determination and perseverance can create.
For current and future LFA students, Gianmarco's story is proof that a passion for filmmaking, combined with hands-on experience, can open doors to the very highest levels of the film industry.
Find out more about our BA (Hons) Filmmaking degree and apply today.