Success in any industry requires passion, determination, and vision. But what happens when someone takes those same qualities and applies them to a completely different field? Kris Thorkelson, a seasoned entrepreneur known for his leadership in real estate and business, understands the challenges and rewards of venturing into new territories.

While his background is rooted in real estate and property management, Thorkelson has always believed in the power of storytelling and creative expression. His journey from the world of business to the world of cinema is a testament to the fact that passion, coupled with a strong entrepreneurial mindset, can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling new ventures.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit: A Common Thread

At first glance, the restaurant business and the film industry might seem worlds apart. One revolves around serving meals and creating an exceptional dining experience, while the other is about crafting narratives and engaging audiences through visual storytelling. However, the foundation of both industries is remarkably similar.

“Whether you’re running a restaurant, managing a real estate portfolio, or producing a film, it all comes down to vision, leadership, and execution,” Thorkelson explains. “You need to see the bigger picture, bring together the right team, and ensure every detail aligns with your goal.”

Much like opening a new restaurant requires careful planning, hiring the best chefs, designing an inviting atmosphere, and crafting a memorable menu, making a film demands assembling the right cast and crew, developing a compelling script, and ensuring all elements come together seamlessly.

The Leap from Business to Filmmaking

For Thorkelson, the journey into filmmaking didn’t happen overnight. His career had already given him a deep understanding of operations, finance, and leadership, which proved invaluable when stepping into a creative industry.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the art of storytelling,” he shares. “Movies have the power to inspire, educate, and move people in ways that other mediums simply can’t.”

While many entrepreneurs stick to their comfort zones, Thorkelson saw filmmaking as a new challenge—one that would allow him to channel his business acumen into something deeply creative. He approached it with the same strategic mindset he applied to his other ventures: learning the industry, surrounding himself with talented professionals, and embracing the process.

Storytelling and Business: Two Sides of the Same Coin

One of the biggest lessons Thorkelson carried over from business to filmmaking is that great storytelling is just as important in business as it is in movies.

“In business, you’re constantly telling stories—whether it’s about your brand, your mission, or the experience you offer to customers,” he explains. “A strong narrative is what connects people to a brand, just like a strong script connects audiences to a film.”

For Thorkelson, filmmaking was a natural extension of this idea. He believes that movies are one of the most powerful ways to communicate ideas and emotions. The ability to shape a story, capture real human experiences, and leave an impact on an audience is what drew him to the industry.

The Challenges of Entering a New Industry

Even with years of business success, Thorkelson acknowledges that transitioning into filmmaking was not without its challenges.

“It’s one thing to understand the business side of things, but filmmaking also requires a deep appreciation for the creative process,” he says. “You have to respect the art form and learn from those who have spent their careers perfecting it.”

Some of the biggest obstacles included:

• Learning the technical aspects: Cinematography, editing, and production require a different skill set than running a business.
• Building industry connections: Just like in the restaurant business, success in film depends on surrounding yourself with the right people.
• Managing expectations: Unlike business, where success is often measured by numbers and growth, filmmaking is deeply subjective—what resonates with one audience might not with another.

Despite these challenges, Thorkelson embraced the learning curve, viewing it as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

Finding Inspiration in Real Stories

One of Thorkelson’s key takeaways from his filmmaking journey is the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Just as a restaurant thrives on offering genuine, high-quality experiences, a film must offer real, compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.

He has drawn inspiration from true stories, human experiences, and real-life challenges to create content that feels genuine and impactful. He believes that storytelling should not just entertain but also offer insight, perspective, and emotional depth—something that business and film have in common.

The Future of Business and Film

Thorkelson’s journey from business leader to filmmaker is proof that passion and adaptability can open doors to new opportunities. He sees a future where the lines between industries continue to blur, with entrepreneurs bringing fresh perspectives to creative fields and artists applying business strategies to their craft.

“The world is changing,” he says. “People aren’t just one thing anymore. You can be an entrepreneur and a filmmaker, a chef and a writer, a business leader and an artist. The key is having the courage to step into the unknown and embrace the process.”

As Thorkelson continues to grow in both business and film, he remains committed to storytelling, innovation, and creating meaningful experiences—whether through a business venture or a cinematic production.

Embracing the Journey

For those considering a leap into a new industry, Thorkelson offers one piece of advice:

“Don’t let fear hold you back. The skills you’ve built in one industry can absolutely transfer into another. Stay curious, surround yourself with great people, and most importantly—enjoy the journey.”

His story is a reminder that success isn’t about staying in one lane—it’s about following your passions, embracing challenges, and daring to create something new. Whether in the kitchen, the boardroom, or behind the camera, the principles of hard work, vision, and creativity remain the same.

And as Thorkelson has proven, sometimes the best stories come from those who are willing to take risks and chase their dreams—no matter where they lead.