Mike Starchak

Director's demo reel

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The Path of the Director

Mike Starchak is a filmmaker with an unconventional journey — from medical school and theater in Kyiv to directing top-rated TV series in Russia.

His work spans diverse landscapes, from the tropics of The Island to the Arctic chill of Polyarny, Russia’s most-watched show in 2019. In 2022, he left the Russian film industry and relocated to Vancouver, embracing new challenges and fresh inspiration.

A passionate runner and storyteller, Mike continues to pursue filmmaking, believing that both cinema and life are long-distance races.

About Mike
«Life is a marathon. Sometimes, all you need to do is push through.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«Film is the love of my life. Even my wife knows she comes second.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«Every great work of art is about love. Because without love, there would be no art.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«I love setting goals, and I love achieving them. Every time, it feels like a small competition with myself.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«I’ve filmed in the tropics and in the Arctic Circle. Both were tough. But if it were easy, it wouldn’t be interesting.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«I’ve worked with some big-name actors. One thing I know for sure — they’re all like kids. If you give them a great game to play, they’ll jump right in.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«I dream of directing a musical. A big, bold, spectacular one. With amazing music and mind-blowing choreography. Musicals have been my love since childhood.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«Filmmaking is a craft you never stop learning. That’s why I watch a lot of movies and TV shows — there’s always something to take away.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«I believe in God, and I respect every religion. I think it’s easy to respect another person, their beliefs, and their faith — as long as it doesn’t go against basic human morality. Just let others be who they are.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

«My life is like the Hero’s Journey in a movie. And it feels like I’ve already passed the Transformation stage and am getting closer to the Reward. Exciting times ahead.» 

— Mike Starchak, Director

TV Series & Film

Polyarnyy

2019–2021 / 30 episodes

Afera

2021 / 10 episodes

Ostrov

2016-2018 / 40 episodes

Zaytsev+1

2014 / 16 episodes

Univer. Novaya obschaga

2013-2014 / 40 episodes

SashaTanya

2013 / 40 episodes

RED5

2020 / Pilot Episode

Marathon: Love&Run

2024 / Screenplay

Get in Touch

Have a project in mind or just want to connect? Feel free to reach out! Whether it’s about filmmaking, collaboration, or any creative idea, Mike is always open to new opportunities.

Fill out the form , and he’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Let’s create something great together!

Mike Starchak

Film & TV Series Director

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