Christopher Parker has big dreams. He sees himself as the head of a video production company within the next five years. Unlike so many others with lofty desires, Mr. Parker has a persistence that pushes him to achieve his goals.

In a cynical industry that has a million reasons why you won't make it, Chris Parker is the type of go-getter who not only sees the proverbial glass as half full, but is willing to do what it takes to fill the glass to the top. As with anything in life, there are sacrifices to be made along the way. Being in his mid-30s and still living at home with his father in Westfield, Massachusetts can be psychologically difficult at times. But Parker realizes it's all a means to an end. Every dollar he saves in rent can be put towards new computer equipment, studio rental space or anything else which helps Mr. Parker produce films his way without interference from large corporations.

"Growing up I didn't have a lot of friends," Parker confesses. When you look different from the other kids it's not easy. I started playing with toys and action figures and I would act out scenes with my GI Joe dolls, putting them into film scenarios. I didn't realize it at the time but I was directing movies in my head."

Parker has come a long way since those lonely childhood days. His drive for perfection in the art of filmmaking still keeps him alone most of the time. "I don't play well with others," he muses. I'm competitive and it's a problem I'm working on." Another problem Mr. Parker doesn't allow to get in the way is the fact he was born with some physical challenges. One of his arms is discernibly smaller than the other and a facial imperfection near his mouth can mean the occasional slurring of words, which Parker compensates for effectively. "I've experienced some prejudice in the industry," Parker says quietly. "One TV executive producer who I won't mention by name asked me if I'd be able to do the job (editing) because of my situation," he says, pointing to his arm. "It didn't matter that my resume already showed I could do the job." Most of the time Parker handles such ignorance with a healthy sense of humor. "People are going to think what they want. I can't waste my time trying to change them. I let my work speak for itself."

While still a student at Syracuse University, Christopher's professors were liberal enough to give him the latitude he needed to show what he could do. If the video project called for a period piece set in the 18th century, it was important for Parker to obtain authentic locations and props that would add to the cinematic verisimilitude. "While the other students were goofing off, I was impressing the professors with my dedication to the art," says Parker.

Over the years Mr. Parker has won numerous Telly and Emmy awards for producing and writing. His enthusiasm for the video clips he shows me on his laptop computer during the interview is off the scale. Clip after clip he explains all the interesting facets that went into a particular commercial or short film he produced. The type of equipment used, the time of day, the actors who impressed him the most. All the minutiae is recalled instantly as if the years of experience happened that very day.

Mr. Parker's most recent production, DARK PRACTICE, is a horror film he's been working on for 3 years. Filmed in Connecticut and Massachusetts, DARK PRACTICE is a modern day vampire tale with a metaphoric take on corporate greed in America. "Employees are often so consumed with pleasing the corporation they often lose themselves and, in a sense, give up their souls or life force," Parker explains. The cautionary tale delves into aspects of contemporary vampires called "Maraphene" who prey on those who have a soul to take. It's an allegorical look at characters that become the ultimate sellouts and give up who they are.

Chris Parker enjoys working in fantasy and horror. With influences from Spielberg to Hitchcock it's easy to see why. "You can get a political or social message out to the masses much easier when your story is wrapped in a fictitious setting with over-the-top characters."

The next step for Parker is to finish editing his horror project (the computer effects necessary for the film are what's taken 3 years) and have a grand premiere where industry professionals will be invited to view and critique the work. Mr. Parker is currently seeking an agent for several other scripts he intends to produce in the next year. For now, Parker is content with earning his main living editing attorney commercials for local affiliates. The independent filmmaker's advice to other budding video pioneers reflects his own maverick style. "Do what you want to do," he says. "Listen to the people you respect and ignore the others. Stick with your vision no matter what."