Conversations with David Liban

Today we’d like to introduce you to David Liban

Hi David, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am from New York City. I have been in Colorado for the past 20 years and I am currently the Chairman of the Film & TV department at the University of Colorado Denver. I have an MFA in Television production from Brooklyn College and have been both an educator and a filmmaker for quite some time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a great ride thus far, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Teaching at CU Denver has given me the unique opportunity to share my love of film with students and to pursue my own creative projects. While making a living from my films isn’t essential, the freedom to explore my artistic vision has been incredibly fulfilling. The real challenge of an independent filmmaker is getting the money to make a professional looking film.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a seasoned filmmaker and educator with years of experience in the television and film industry. My eclectic portfolio includes independent productions spanning fiction, documentary, and television studio formats.

Since 2004, I have been a dedicated professor at CU Denver, where I currently serve as Associate Professor and Chair of the Film & Television Department. My films and videos have garnered numerous awards at national and international film festivals.

My feature film, Publish or Perish, a dark comedy available on major streaming platforms, has won over 20 awards worldwide. I am currently working on another dark comedy, Love Less Likely, which I aim for a 2024 release.

My documentary, Looking for Mr. Miyagi, is available on Amazon Prime and also is being internationally distributed. Mortal Lessons, a documentary exploring death, dying, and living life, aired on The Documentary Channel and earned an Emmy Award in 2010. Carhenge: Genius or Junk? also aired nationally on PBS and was nominated for an Emmy. I also did a documentar called, Live Through This: survivors of sex trafficking, a documentary addressing this critical social issue.

In 2002, I was honored with a Fulbright Distinguished Chairs Award to teach television production in Porto, Portugal.

“My abilities as a producer allows me to bring together a talented team and create a collaborative environment. Filmmaking is a collective effort, and I’m fortunate to have built strong relationships with individuals who share my passion. Together, we’ve overcome obstacles and produced work that we’re proud of.”

What does success mean to you?
My definition of success is doing what you love and getting paid for it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tinyfistfilms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feral_filmmaker/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.liban
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@publishorperish_movie