You pass him in the Main Quad. He might be your classmate or he might be your friend. Whatever you do, remember his face because in no time, he’s going to be the next big shot film director. 19-year-old Joseph Buckley is a passionate film major in his second quarter at De Anza College.

His interest in film started when he was a boy making spy movies in his backyard with his siblings. Now, with the help and support of his family, he’s turned his childhood hobby into a professional art.

Buckley is the president and founder of the De Anza Academy of Independent Filmmakers. He started the club intending to create a collaborative community of filmmakers; networking, he believes, is the most important element to success in the film industry.

One of the many who have aided Buckley is Barak Goldman, De Anza film instructor and adviser to the club. “Despite the fact that he is an insanely busy guy, he takes time to be the adviser,” said Buckley. “He sees how important it is for De Anza to have a film club.”

Buckley’s future plans include starting his own production company in the Bay Area, like his mentor Jone Wood has done. His goal is to make feature-length motion pictures and he typically directs comedies. He is currently in the process of working on his first drama.

He is also helping Emerging Artist Productions on a Web series titled “Exit Stage Left,” a mockumentary about an offBroadway show and the problems the cast and crew endure. He is also in the process of shooting a music video for Bay Area rapper Main Objective.

Buckley admits to being a worried wreck at times, but making films is what he loves. His advice to up and coming amateur filmmakers is, “Even if you’re shy or nervous, be proactive and just do your thing anyway.”