Mustard Seed Cinema focuses on creating documentary style story-based promotional videos for nonprofit organizations. We take pride in using the art and craft of filmmaking for the betterment of the world around us. We look to work with clients who respect our values and wish to collaborate around these to create something special that will serve the needs of their organization.
Our Values:
HONESTY: We do not wish to deceive the viewer. Rather we want to shine a light on what is real and true. This applies to how we frame the story or message, as well as the tools and technology that we use.*
ETHICAL STORYTELLING: We do not want our films to take advantage of someones story without regard for the person and their dignity. It is important to us that what we create would honor the people who are featured.
AFFIRMATION OF LIFE: All people are made in the image of God and we do not want our work to contradict this truth. From the unborn, to the vulnerable and marginalized, to the elderly and forgotten, all deserve to be treated with love and respect.
SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE & FAMILY: It is important that our work not threaten or undermine the healthy family structure. Rather, we refer to it as an example of a loving environment where all members can grow and flourish.
* While AI has many legitimate uses in media and entertainment, in our work at Mustard Seed Cinema we do not extend the use of technology for the purposes of creating something that is not real. Examples of this may include AI generated speech or visuals. Because most of our work is more documentary style in nature, we want our audience to know that they can believe what they are seeing as an honest portrayal of reality.
From the Owner
I’m passionate about using filmmaking as a tool for telling meaningful and impactful stories. Video is a powerful form of communication that can be used in many different ways. It is my desire to use the medium for GOOD. It is for this reason that I work primarily with non-profit organizations. Mustard Seed Cinema exists to support and partner with these important organizations, and tell the powerful stories of why they do their incredible work.
My work in video began in 1998 as an intern at a video production company while attending Scottsdale Community College for film/TV production and taking on freelance video jobs. In 2020, I started Mustard Seed Cinema to specifically serve the video needs of nonprofit and religious organizations.
The name, Mustard Seed Cinema is a reference from the bible. Jesus says that with the faith of a mustard seed, we can move mountains (Matthew 17:20). He also likens the kingdom of God to a mustard plant (Matthew 13:31-32). Though the smallest of seeds, when fully-grown it becomes a large tree. Likewise, our seemingly small acts or offerings can grow to make a significant difference in the lives of others.
Business Philosophy
I love this work and I want to continue to create beauty and hone my craft. I’ve kept the footprint small because do not want to distance myself from the creative process for more managerial tasks. My goal for this business is to keep things lean and efficient, simple and streamlined. I hire from a pool of talented contractors to meet the needs of each project. Likewise, I rent studio space or other filming locations when it’s necessary. In this way, we are able to adjust the size of the team for any given project and only pay for what we really need. We can provide the best possible results to our clients while keeping costs competitive. This also allows me to be the director for every project that Mustard Seed Cinema takes on.
One of my biggest priorities in this business is to take great care of my clients. I place a high priority on frequent communication and clarifying expectations early on. By staying organized with systems and processes that I have developed over the years, we can deliver a smooth and consistent customer experience.
I wish to focus on quality rather than quantity. I would rather turn down some jobs to be able to take on the projects that are the right fit. This allows me to focus on providing the best possible product and experience for my clients. I believe that this results not only in a better service for my clients, but also in my work more fulfilling and successful.
-Matt Linderman
