Chris Carthern’s career trajectory is anything but traditional. From network engineer and successful author to award-winning photographer and now an accomplished film producer, his journey is a testament to following your passions, even when the path isn’t clear.
“I was tired of being an engineer,” Chris admits. “I wanted to do something creative, something that would leave an impact. Photography opened that door for me, and film took it to the next level.”
Chris dove into the film industry in 2017 with the determination to master every role on set. “I didn’t want to just produce—I wanted to understand what it took to make a movie from start to finish,” he explains. From running cables as a gaffer to capturing shots as a camera operator, Chris immersed himself in every aspect of the craft.
But success didn’t come easy. “I’ve faced it all—running out of time on set, budget issues, even projects falling apart before post-production. Failure has been my greatest teacher,” Chris reflects. “Every setback taught me how to do it better the next time. You have to embrace the process.”
Now, as a Producer, Chris is making waves in the world of animation and film. The project is no ordinary superhero story—it’s a powerful exploration of mental health, framed through the therapy sessions of Xerxes Hughes, a teenager balancing life as a student, son, and superhero struggling with depression.
“Captain Zero is about more than entertainment—it’s about representation and tackling issues that matter,” Chris shares. The film, which features a stellar cast including Keith David, Angelica Ross, and Zolee Griggs, is part of a broader mission to highlight the importance of Black storytelling in media.
For Chris, this project is deeply personal. “I’ve always believed that Black creators deserve the same opportunities, budgets, and recognition as anyone else. Representation matters—not just on screen but behind the scenes too.”
Chris’s involvement with Captain Zero began with a simple message. “I saw the designs for the characters and the story, and I loved it,” he recalls. “I reached out to the creator, Z Cher-Aime, on Instagram. I told them I believed in the project and wanted to help bring it to life. They saw my passion, and now here we are.”
That moment of shooting his shot led to a new chapter in Chris’s career. “The worst someone can say is no,” he says with a smile. “But if they say yes, it could change your life.”
Looking ahead, Chris dreams of seeing Captain Zero become a critically acclaimed animated series that breaks barriers and changes perceptions. “Animation isn’t just for kids,” he says. “There’s so much potential to tell meaningful, impactful stories—and I want to be at the forefront of that.”
To Chris, success isn’t about fame or fortune. “I want to be remembered for standing up for what’s right and creating opportunities for others. This isn’t just about me—it’s about leaving a legacy that inspires others to dream big and fight for what they believe in.”
For more on Chris’s work and his journey:
- Instagram: @cosplaysbyshinobi
- TikTok: @cosplaysbyshinobi
- YouTube: Chris Carthern
