Man Candy: Meet Ariel Lavi, the global storyteller making waves across five continents

From Tel Haifa to Hollywood, Nigerian dramas to Mexican thrillers, Ariel Lavi isn’t just producing films, he’s crafting conversations across cultures. The Israeli-born producer has built a globe-spanning career that reads like a cinematic passport; shooting in Mexico, writing in Canada, collaborating in Nigeria, and collecting over 131 international awards along the way.

At just 30, Ariel isn’t just chasing stories, he’s amplifying voices from every corner of the world. In this exclusive Q&A, the multi-hyphenate filmmaker opens up about the beauty of cross-cultural storytelling, how his Israeli roots ground his creative process, and why authenticity is his secret weapon. Consider this your backstage pass to the mind of a man who’s redefining what it means to be a global filmmaker.

Glamour: You've produced films across five countries—what draws you to work internationally, and how do you adapt your creative process to different cultures and film industries?

Ariel Lavi: Working internationally allows me to explore diverse narratives and collaborate with a rich tapestry of talents. Each culture has unique stories that reflect its values and experiences, which I believe enrich the global film landscape. To adapt my creative process, I immerse myself in the local culture, engage with local filmmakers, and prioritize cultural sensitivity to ensure that the stories we tell are authentic and resonate with the audience.

Glamour: With 131 awards globally, what do you believe sets your work apart on the international stage?

AL: I believe the diversity of my narratives and dedication to authentic storytelling set my work apart. Each film reflects not only my vision but also the voices of the cultures we portray. This commitment to quality and the emotional depth of my characters create connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Ultimately, it’s about telling stories that matter and resonate with people regardless of their background.

Ariel Lavi isn’t just producing films, he’s crafting conversations across cultures, Image: Supplied

Glamour: How has your Israeli background influenced your career path and the kinds of stories you're drawn to tell?

AL: My Israeli background instilled in me a strong sense of identity and resilience, which heavily influences my storytelling. The complexities of my culture—the history, the conflicts, and the rich tapestry of everyday routine—drive me to explore themes of identity, belonging, and human connection in my work. I often gravitate toward stories that address social issues, reflecting the dilemmas faced by individuals and communities.

Glamour: From producing in places like Nigeria to Mexico, can you share a memorable experience that shaped you professionally?

AL: One of the most memorable experiences was filming in Nigeria for "Dangerous Silence." The collaboration showcased the power of a story to evoke change. I witnessed firsthand how film can unite people and give a voice to the marginalized. It helped me understand the profound responsibility filmmakers have in portraying authentic stories and the impact we can make through our work.

Glamour: What do you look for in a story before deciding to bring it to life on screen?

AL: I look for authenticity, emotional depth, and a unique perspective. A compelling story should resonate on a universal level while also highlighting specific cultural nuances. It’s vital that the narrative evokes emotion and provokes thought—stories that challenge the status quo or address pressing societal issues are particularly appealing to me.

Glamour: How do you balance the artistic vision of storytelling with the practical aspects of production?

AL: Balancing artistic vision with practical production involves clear communication and collaboration. I believe it’s essential to establish a strong vision from the outset while remaining flexible. I work closely with directors and writers to align on the story’s essence, ensuring that the practical aspects, such as budget and scheduling, support rather than compromise our artistic goals.

The Israeli-born producer has built a globe-spanning career that reads like a cinematic passport; shooting in Mexico, writing in Canada, collaborating in Nigeria, and collecting over 130 international awards along the way, Image: Supplied

Glamour: As both a producer and screenwriter, how do you approach the collaboration between writing and directing?

AL: Collaboration is key in the creative process. I believe that as a producer, I facilitate the synergy between writers and directors, ensuring that their visions align throughout the development and production phases. Open dialogue is crucial, as it fosters a creative environment where ideas can flourish while maintaining the story’s integrity.

Glamour: In your view, what makes a story universally resonant, regardless of its cultural origin?

AL: A story resonates universally when it speaks to fundamental human experiences—love, loss, conflict, and triumph. Themes that delve into the human condition, highlight shared emotions, and reflect fundamental values can connect with any audience, no matter their background. This shared emotional landscape is what makes a story impactful and enduring.

Glamour: As a filmmaker who's also frequently in the judge’s seat, what criteria do you personally value most in evaluating a film?

AL: When evaluating a film, I prioritize originality, emotional impact, and cohesive storytelling. A strong narrative arc that captivates the audience, memorable characters, and a well-executed production all contribute to a successful film. Additionally, I look for authenticity in the storytelling, ensuring that the film reflects genuine experiences and perspectives.

Glamour: What does industry recognition, from festivals to major publications like Sky Italy and Billboard Argentina, mean to you at this stage of your career?

AL: Recognition is incredibly validating; it confirms that the work resonates with audiences and critics alike. It motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. However, I also believe that while accolades are gratifying, they should not overshadow the primary goal of creating impactful stories.

Glamour: What inspired you to pursue filmmaking in the first place, and has that inspiration changed over the years?

AL: My initial inspiration stemmed from a love for storytelling and how films can evoke powerful emotions. Over the years, my focus has broadened to include a desire to tell diverse stories that reflect the complexity of our world. As I’ve grown in my career, I see film as a tool for social change, inspiring me to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard.

Glamour: Are there any genres or regions you haven’t worked in yet that you’re eager to explore?

AL: I am keen to explore genres like science fiction and fantasy, which offer limitless creative possibilities for storytelling. Additionally, I'm interested in collaborating with filmmakers from the USA and Europe, as I believe these regions have rich cultural narratives waiting to be told on the global stage.