“Self-Portrait Polaroid” by Andrei Tarkovsky.

"Cinema uses your life." For Andrei Tarkovsky, cinema is life. His thought that the art form makes use of your life is reflected in his films. Nostalghia follows the story of a Russian poet in Italy as his research into the life of an 18th century composer blends with nostalgic meditations on his life and homeland. Mirror is a cinematic stream of consciousness reflection that draws heavily on the director's personal life. The artistry that shines on screen is also reflective of cinema being life for Tarkovsky. Collaborators speak of his determined focus on set and his drive and commitment toward his filmmaking. This leads to the insight he offers to filmmakers, insight that is useful to all artists. "You should sacrifice yourself to the art." Immersing yourself in the process—in both the artistic act and career journey—is the key to creating a fulfilling creative life.