CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — A young entrepreneur has launched a new film production company in Clarion.
Ethan Merritt, founder of First Victory Films, says he is committed to helping every client distinguish their brand’s culture, providing them with a high-quality, affordable film.
“My motivation for starting the company was when I was stationed in the Middle East, seeing how people had to live, seeing young kids who had lost their families and gaining a better understanding of life,” Merritt said. “At that point, I stopped making excuses for not starting a business.”
Merritt came to the Clarion area from California, where he was born and raised, to dive for the Clarion University Golden Eagles. He signed up for the National Guard Army Infantry to help pay for school, graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Art and served as a platoon leader after his deployment to the Middle East. He is currently working on finishing his Master’s in Business Administration.
Merritt spent his downtime abroad brainstorming ideas for a company and what it would be.
Since returning to the area, Merritt has worked for a public relations agent in New York City and made a video promotion for her website. He has also worked on productions for Pittsburgh-based Spare Change TV and even created a video for Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto.
First Victory Films has recently become more active in Clarion area, compiling promo videos for Lucinda-based construction company Dolby Customs, Clarion River Brewing Company, and Resolute Custom Tattooing.
Merritt said First Victory Films wants to bring new media to the area that help smaller businesses promote themselves.
“We feel it’s growing and it’s very important for area businesses to promote themselves with better productions that are more affordably priced,” Merritt said.
Merritt has also teamed up with two Clarion area men — Adrian Weber and Leo Aiello — to provide photography services.
Despite the youth of the trio, they have extensive photography and production experience, as well as the vision, to bring any customer’s ideas to life.
First Victory Films is also available to create commercials, collaborate on projects, help with advertising, provide consultation, and video and photograph weddings and corporate events.
Additionally, the company offers social media platform development that helps clients create a personal brand to speak to a growing internet audience in marketing or personal activities.
They also specialize in drone footage used to display optimal visuals that go above the competitive market, including aerial shots for realtors, sporting events, and travel.
“Our passion is in our service, and I am committed to bringing our clients’ visions to life to create a lasting impact among their friends, family, and customers,” Merritt said.
For more information on First Victory Films, visit FirstVictoryFilms.com, or Facebook.com/FirstVictoryFilms/.
Merritt can be reached at 805-748-9759 or at ethan.merritt@firstvictoryfilms.com.
