Tell us a little about yourself, what do you do? What are you hobbies?
I've been a filmmaker for 10 years now, mostly writing, directing and producing. I just finished my second feature film called, “Sable” which is now going into film festivals and distribution. I am doing a trailer in September to prep for a superhero series with youtube actor Tyrone Magnus to be pitched to Netflix soon too. I love to travel, dance and play soccer. Film is a huge part of my life so being on set means a lot to me.
You’re a film maker, how did you get involved in that?
My dad showed me a lot of classic films at a young age and I was really influenced by that and started to do more research on all types of films. Interestingly enough two of my favourite foreign directors are the Russians Tarkovsky and Sokurov, they made visually stunning films.
How did you first get interested in Zenit?
I’ve always loved soccer even at a young age and my favourite are European clubs. I usually watch the English, German, Italian and Russian leagues and Zenit’s team spirit, energy and players really are entertaining to watch.
What’s the first match you remember watching?
The 2008 UEFA Cup final where Zenit won, it was an incredible game and achievement. I knew then that this was a team that I wanted to always follow and support.
Who’s your all-time favourite Zenit player? Who do you like in the current squad and why?
I loved Hulk on the team, he was so lethal an attacker and you could tell he really loved playing for Zenit. It’s still unfortunate he had to be traded, but I guess that’s the game for you. I really like Witsel now because he’s a really hard worker and a great midfielder with pace. Good in the air as well.
What’s your best Zenit memory?
I would have to say probably the 2008 UEFA final because that was what made me really a huge fan ever since. I liked the ’15 season where they won the Russian league and Hulk was top scorer as well. It was highly entertaining and they thoroughly deserved it.
What are you hoping for us this season?
First, I hope we do really well in the league to get us back into Champion’s League play again; where we belong. I do hope we go very far and even win the Europa league as well. There will be some strong teams in it for sure; but we are up for the challenge!
Which areas of the squad would you like to see Zenit strengthen in? Who realistically should we be looking at signing?
I think getting one more world class striker would really help and also boost the team spirit and energy. Losing Hulk is a tough loss, so getting somebody else of his quality or even better would be very significant.
You live in Los Angeles, how would you describe this city for your fellow fans? What’s the local football like?
I live in the Los Feliz neighbourhood of Los Angeles; it is about 5 minutes away from Hollywood and it is beautiful. It is situated in a park essentially and great for hiking and taking walks. In American, football is getting more popular here and especially the European leagues are very popular here; more than the MLS!
If Zenit fans plan to visit your part of the world what place is a must-see and what food should they try?
They should visit the Griffith Park Observatory which is beautiful and you can see the whole view of all of Los Angeles. They should walk down Hollywood Boulevard too which is a great experience as well and of course go to the beach and the Santa Monica pier.
Do you know any other Zenit fans where you live or are you the only one?
I have a few Russian friends who are indeed fans of Zenit; good choice too!
What are your thoughts of Euro 2016? Who impressed you? Who disappointed?
If I am being extremely honest; I thought it was rather poor. Keep in mind I’ve been watching international tournaments since 1998 and this is honestly one of the world in terms of style of play, entertainment, low goal scoring and just overall low energy. I think the 24 team didn’t work because many teams were playing way too scared or defensively. I really do not think Portugal should have won to be honest. Credit to them, but I didn’t like how negatively they played and I think Germany or France should have won it.
Do you have a message for the manager, The team and all the Zenit fans out there?
I love the fans of Zenit and I actually visited St Petersburg when I was 13 with my family and loved it. I went to the Hermitage which was absolutely incredible and the churches were beautiful as well. I hope to come to a game someday soon as well! I say buy maybe one or two more plays and keep the energy and the spirit high!
You can follow Michael and get updates on his latest movie projects on twitter here.
