.aesthetic talk
CAELIAN DEL’MARE
*On Identity, Rebellion, & Finding Home
written + interview Alban E. Smajli
Caelian del’Mare is a force shaped by the vibrant chaos of Kreuzberg, the vivid energy of Istanbul, and the cinematic pull of Los Angeles.
Rooted in his Berlin upbringing, the actor moves through life with an authenticity that feels as raw as the streets he calls home. His work is an exploration of identity, movement, and resilience—layers formed through early experiences that continue to fuel his creativity.
In this exclusive conversation with LE MILE Digital, del’Mare shares how Kreuzberg’s diversity shaped his worldview, how Istanbul’s markets ignited his determination, and how the rhythm of dance connects to the emotional depths of his roles. Whether reflecting on the transformative power of a name or imagining a character yet to be played, del’Mare embodies the energy of someone constantly in motion, constantly evolving.
jersey CAYEMO
“Berlin, Kreuzberg! This is where I was born, where I grew up. These streets taught me life. It’s not just a place; it’s a part of me.”
Caelian del’Mare speaks with Alban E. Smajli
for LE MILE .Digital
pants HOLZWEILER
jacket + bag FASHION ARCHIVE
shoes CAMPER
Alban E. Smajli
Berlin, Istanbul, Los Angeles—where does Caelian del’Mare feel most at home, or are you constantly searching for something beyond places?
Caelian del’Mare
Berlin, Kreuzberg! This is where I was born, where I grew up. These streets taught me life. It’s not just a place; it’s a part of me. So much love, but also so many contradictions—it’s rough around the edges. Many say that if you’re born here, you never truly leave, no matter where you go, and that’s true. I could move elsewhere, but I want my big breakthrough to come without even realizing it’s happening. I want to show my people that I have what it takes to be the next movie star.
When you step into the skin of a character, how much of Caelian stays outside?
There’s always something of me in every role, maybe just a nuance. My early, often tough experiences sparked my creativity and gave me a unique perspective on characters. As an actor, I am confident and serious but also relaxed enough to approach any role flexibly. My expressions give my performances a certain intensity that often resonates well with people. It feels like I bring parts of myself into every role while transforming into the character.
From short film to feature film—is it just a change in runtime, or does each format demand something entirely different from you as an actor?
Each format has its own rhythm. In a short film, you have to portray the character quickly and precisely, almost like a poem that touches directly. A feature film, on the other hand, gives you more time to unfold the character step by step and take the audience on a deeper journey. For me, that means each format requires a different approach.
You’ve trained in street and urban dance—do you find that rhythm and movement unexpectedly guide you in intense scenes?
Absolutely. Dance gave me a kind of language for rhythm and body movement that goes beyond words. Sometimes, it’s not the dialogue but the movements that bring the moment to life. The rhythm of the body can build tension. This connection to movement often gives me access to the emotions of the character.
Your name, Caelian del’Mare, has an almost mythical quality. Does it influence how people in the industry perceive you or the roles you’re drawn to?
I’m completely at peace with my identity and real name, and I don’t deny it in any way. But my stage name, Caelian del’Mare, represents a creative extension of myself. It allows me to show a different side of me and create something that stands apart from my everyday life. The name was born from my desire for change and hope for something new – it symbolizes a fresh start. It’s entirely possible that I’m perceived differently because of the stage name, as it establishes a distinct creative identity. Still, it remains a part of me, and it’s not about hiding or completely changing who I am but about presenting my art from a new perspective.
What is your creative rebellion? Is there a rule in filmmaking you’d like to break but haven’t had the chance to yet?
There are no rules. I’ve seen a lot in life, more than one might guess from the outside. There were times when I felt lost, unsure of who I truly was or where I belonged. Acting gives me the chance to step into roles that are far removed from the life I was born into. It’s as if I’m living out all the dreams I could never fulfill. I’m not just playing a character – I’m living everything I might never have experienced. Every role I play is a piece of me that I find and lose. It’s a journey that changes me more than I ever thought it would.
total look GCDS
“There’s always something of me in every role, maybe just a nuance. It feels like I bring parts of myself into every role while transforming into the character.”
Caelian del’Mare speaks with Alban E. Smajli
for LE MILE .Digital
Was there ever a costume or look for a character on set that felt so close to your personal style you wanted to take it home?
Yes, absolutely! Once, I played a character who wore a worn leather jacket and black boots—it reminded me of Marlon Brando, a simple yet authentic look. The jacket felt like it had a story, and it just clicked with me. At the end of the shoot, the costume designer practically had to wrestle it out of my hands.
When you play someone complex, like Umut in Tek Yol, do you lose parts of yourself in the process?
With Umut, I played a very complex character, defined by intense emotions and contradictions. He is aggressive, doesn’t take anything lying down, and is full of energy, but at the same time, he is also emotional and a true charmer – the 36 Boys were my inspiration. From the very first moment, I had a vivid mental picture and genuine thoughts about him.
These thoughts allowed me to experience the character with all his depth and pain. My name comes from a boy who wanted change – that boy was me, Merdan Karatas. I created a new identity to achieve what no one believed in.
Is there a story or character the world hasn’t seen yet that you’re eager to bring to life?
I’d love to play a character struggling with their inner self, someone who sees the world differently and is often misunderstood. Someone who lives for themselves despite all the obstacles in their way. I’m fascinated by how such people think and feel, and I’d love to portray that role as vividly as possible.
What’s next—are there any projects, collaborations, or creative directions you’re looking to explore?
There’s no official new film project at the moment, but plenty of exciting opportunities are on the horizon. A few open castings and collaborations are being discussed, and I’m excited to see where it all leads.
jersey CAYEMO
shirt ASKET
production credits
talent CAELIAN DEL´MARE
seen JULIAN MELZER
styled KLAAS HAMMER
photo assistant IMKE HOYNDORF
production LIAM MONOT
post production lemilestudios
“My name comes from a boy who wanted change – that boy was me, Merdan Karatas. I created a new identity to achieve what no one believed in.”
Caelian del’Mare speaks with Alban E. Smajli
for LE MILE .Digital