30 Exceptional Filmmakers to Watch in 2025
- Top Shorts Team
- Jun 16
- 21 min read
Updated: Jul 5
The independent film landscape is thriving with fresh voices and bold storytelling that challenges conventions and captivates audiences worldwide. In an era where authentic narratives matter more than ever, emerging filmmakers are crafting powerful short films that demonstrate remarkable artistic vision, technical prowess, and emotional depth. From intimate character studies to genre-bending experiments, these creators are pushing boundaries and redefining what cinema can be.
After reviewing hundreds of submissions from talented artists across the globe, Top Shorts and Filmmakers Connect are proud to present 30 exceptional filmmakers whose work represents the future of independent cinema. Each of these visionaries has created something truly special, films that linger in your mind long after the credits roll, stories that speak to universal human experiences, and artistry that deserves recognition on the biggest stages.
We invite you to follow and support these artists as they continue their creative journeys, because today's promising filmmaker is tomorrow's cinematic voice that will shape how we see the world.
Luca Pizzoleo is an award-winning independent writer and director known for his acclaimed short films. His filmography includes 'In the Valley of the Moon,' a viral short that captivated audiences worldwide, amassing over 10 million views across all social media platforms. He's also known for his dark comedy 'The Tragic Death of a Frenchman' and his upcoming short film, ' OCD.' His achievements have earned him numerous accolades and features in prestigious publications like Basic Magazine and The New York Times.
About the film - synopsis:
A neurotic delivery driver named Owen battles his OCD at a local convenience store while his TikToker girlfriend plans an exposure therapy dinner date at home. But when she helps him resist his compulsion, it subsequently triggers the apocalypse.
Website: https://www.lucapizzoleo.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luca_pizzoleo/
Alice is a performer, filmmaker, and creator based in New York City. Great Minds marks her debut as a director.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Alice returned to the US in 2017 to begin her professional acting career. Shortly after arriving in New York, Alice was selected as one of 13 students worldwide for the MFA Class of 2018 at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, then part of the UK Conservatoire for Dance and Drama. She graduated in 2018 as the sole recipient of the prestigious Bonnie Hurren Prize, awarded for excellence in performance and acting technique.
Upon graduating, Alice immediately returned to New York, signed with representation, and performed in The Curtain’s (formerly Shakespeare@) critically acclaimed off-Broadway production of Hamlet. She has also starred in leading roles at New York’s Theater for the New City and the Wickham Theatre (UK).
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alice pivoted to Melbourne to establish a career in publishing. She earned a second Masters degree in Publishing and Communications from the University of Melbourne, where she was named to the Dean’s Honor List. Since then, she has overseen the production and publication of numerous titles for Thames & Hudson Australia, served as a contributing editor for Good Sport magazine, and worked as an editorial and marketing associate for Aeon Media Group.
Alice returned to New York in 2023 and re-entered the entertainment industry with vigor. Her recent film projects include Through and Through and Through (dir. Anna Mikami), The Blink (dir. Ridley Randolph), and Blank Space (dir. Adam Matthew Chin).
About the film - synopsis:
Three neighbors each navigate a day of rituals and ruminations—until a tense encounter with a suspected car thief outside their apartment building brings their inner worlds together.
Photo credit: Jenny Alice Watts @jennyalicewatts
Alice's website - www.alicemarks.com
Follow Alice on Instagram: @alicemarks__
Virginie Kahn was an artistic director in press and communication agency for 15 years while pursuing a career as a live show photographer.
In 2009, she directed Danse danse danse, a first documentary self-produced. Three years later, she directed Le Grand saut, a documentary about childhood, commitment, and passion for dance for the French-German TV channel Arte.
In 2014, she wrote and directed Ligne de protection, a first short fiction movie, tackling gender-based violence soon followed by a second one, Protection sur Ordonnance.
She is currently writing two feature films scripts and has just adapted a novel for the screen.
Since 2020, she has directed five historical documentaries for the French TV channel Histoire TV : 1940, La debacle; 1933-1939 Attaquer Hitler ?; 1940-1944 De Gaulle seul contre tous, Jean Moulin, cet illustre méconnu; Les batailles cachées de la libération de Paris. She is currently working on another one.
At the same time, she works on the short movies collection Jardins d’Illusion, in cooperation with choreographers. Four shorts have been produced until now, all selected and awarded in many festivals abroad and in France, Dunes being the fifth.
About the film - synopsis:
A duet based on the dance show Cabanes.
It could be a Harlem theater in the fifties. Two strangers share the same emotion while watching a movie. The cinema exit door opens onto an imaginary desert where they will meet,
alone in the world around a dance that is sometimes tender, sometimes dramatic and soon playful. A tribute to the feelings we share when going to the cinema.
J.D. Henning is proud to unveil his directorial debut in Superior Subject. His rising career in film includes credits as an executive producer, screenwriter, and editor on projects such as 2021’s New York Times recommended sci fi film Portal Runner (screenwriter, executive producer), and the award winning family drama Language Arts (post production supervisor), among numerous other accomplishments in his decade spanning career.
About the film - synopsis:
Superior Subject centers on DAWN, a brave student who decides to fight against the bizarre and increasingly oppressive tests she and her friends are forced to undertake by the menacing PROCTOR. However, her quiet rebellion against Proctor puts herself and her newfound allies in more danger than she ever could have imagined. Filled with the foreboding eeriness of Dark Mirror or the Twilight Zone, Superior Subject stars Jen Taylor (Halo, Halo Infinite, Destiny 2) as Proctor, and is proud to introduce Ruby Durr and Carolina Jane as Dawn and Casey.
Website: https://jdhenning.rocks
Jan Fabris was born in 1986 in Ljubljana, Slovenia. In 1999 his interest in filmmaking and film history began to grow. In 2005 after high school graduation he decided to study chemistry. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 2010 and his Ph.D. in Biomedicine in 2014. After finishing film school in 2016, he collaborated with several different directors to make their short and feature films.
Together with his fellow filmmakers and film enthusiasts he co-founded an artistic group “Elephant Art Film Production” in 2019. Since then he has written and directed several independent short fiction films, which were selected, screened and awarded at numerous film festivals around the world. His internationally most successful films include The Disappearance of Evelin Gale (2023), Almost Midnight (2020) and Voyeuress (2024). Besides filmmaking, he is also interested in digital and analog photography, music and reading.
About the film:
What if a person you are secretly watching, is also watching you?
- Website: https://elephant-art-film.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19FM5jHrvc/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jan_fabris
Burke Doeren is a Film Director, Producer, and Cinematographer based in Los Angeles. After attending Chapman University, Burke has worked on a wide variety of commercials, branded content, and television series including Hyperdrive (2019-2019), BattleBots (2018-2023), and the upcoming thriller feature film, Crossword. He is also a co-owner of 22 Waves Creative, a digital production company, and his Directorial debut will be the upcoming feature film,
Grizzly Night.
About the film - synopsis:
After welcoming their first baby, Pete and Emma struggle with all the classic new parent challenges. But is something deeper going on? Follow Emma as she replays the events that led them to their current state - if she tries hard enough, maybe she can change the outcome.
Mary has been producing Non-Scripted Television for over 20 years, beginning her career at MTV. She's currently a Showrunner, Director and an Executive Producer, Producing series for networks like Bravo, Netflix, TLC, Peacock, Magnolia, Food Network and more. She believes that with a good work ethic, kindness and a great attitude, any show or film can be an amazing experience!
About the film - synopsis:
What happens when a mom gets pushed to the brink... by her adorable offspring?
"Stay at Home, Mom" on Instagram: @stayathomemomfilm
Actor Brandon Scales starred as a police officer who captures and arrests ghosts in the fantasy pilot Deadlock. He’s Chandra West’s cameraman in the comedy Love, Weddings & Other Disasters, and he appears opposite Taika Waititi, Ryan Reynolds and Jodie Comer in the adventure/comedy Free Guy. Early in 2020, he portrayed Terrence Graham, a doomed police detective in director Peter Berg’s crime drama Spenser Confidential, his third film with actor Mark Wahlberg.
It was through background work on films that he received a huge break. Determined to show off his skill even in extra parts, his energy and passion to be an authentic character was noticed by director Peter Berg on the set of Patriot’s Day.Suddenly, Brandon had lines to speak.
Berg later cast him as a U.S. embassy analyst/computer hacker opposite Mark Wahlberg in Mile 22 – that support from one of Hollywood’s top creators has propelled Brandon’s career.
In addition to acting, Brandon has also starred in, written, and produced a number of short films, including Steve & Eve, Edgar Goes Dark, I Forgot to Say Thank You and Fire.
About the film - synopsis:
After a brutal loss shatters his boxing career, Billy ‘Captain Hook’ Benoit takes a shady side job to support his family, only to find himself roped into an underground world of crime, unlikely alliances, and second chances, fighting once again to prove his worth—this time, outside the ring.
Follow Anawan Studios on Instagram: @anawanstudios
Tommy is an actor, writer and director based out of Worcester, MA. Tommy grew up the son of a firefighter and uses his blue collar Irish American upbringing to drive realness in all of his work. His projects focus on unique shooting and subtly in the acting and writing, an artform that he looks to bring back to the forefront of filmmaking.
About the film - synopsis:
A man with a recurring nightmare seeks the help of a therapist who helps him see that the nightmare may not be all in his head.
Photo credit: Jesus Paez Cortes @jpcphotobotique
Follow Tommy Jay Dwyer on Instagram: @tommyjaydwyer
Ben Warhit is an LA-based documentary producer whose passion for narrative fiction drives him to write screenplays in his free time. Thirsty to make a film, Ben set out to direct and write his first short film since making his thesis film at Syracuse University in 2013. Ben lives with his fiancee in Studio City with their two dogs- Millie and Gemma. Millie is one of the leading characters in his film Jack Attack.
About the film - synopsis:
A down-and-out surf instructor desperately needs money to make rent and feed his dog. When one of his surf students goes missing under unusual circumstances, he immediately becomes the person of interest.
I am Todd Lien, a Taiwanese actor/director based in Los Angeles. Besides acting in different award-winning film projects and commercials, I have directed many stage shows, commercials, short films, and music videos in the greater LA area for Asian American children through my own talent management and production company, iStage Entertainment. My credits include, 4-million-view viral short film, "Straight A", viral Asian Magic Mike video, and feature film on IQIYI "iBot".
About the film - synopsis:
Starting to self-harm, Chloe, a jaded lonely young Chinese American girl, resents her absent workaholic mother who always leaves her to her Butler. One day, she learns a valuable lesson from a wheel-chaired boy at a flower shop, Ethan, who lives with his grandmother and runs a loving flower shop for all disabled kids in the neighborhood.
MARLYN BANDIERO (WRITER/DIRECTOR/PRODUCER) Born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in New York City, Marlyn Bandiero is a multilingual storyteller fluent in four languages (English, Spanish, Italian, and French). She earned her bachelor's degree in International Affairs from Manhattan College, a path that led
her to a prestigious position at the United Nations. Her passion for writing ignited while researching and editing periodicals for the Department for Disarmament Affairs. This experience paved the way for a career in the high-pressure world of international licensing and sales in the fashion industry. Simultaneously, Marlyn
honed her craft by writing for her husband's nationally syndicated radio show. Today, she is the co-owner of Because I Can Productions, a company she runs alongside her husband, Al Bandiero. As the creative force behind the company,
Marlyn writes all of its screenplays and television projects. She wrote, directed, and co-produced the award-winning film Standoff, which has garnered international acclaim.
Beyond film making, Marlyn is also a celebrated children's book author. Her popular books, Dante's Cool Wheels and Dante's Cool Wheels: Book 2 - Believe, Achieve, are available worldwide on several platforms and were inspired by her 14-year journey with her beloved, disabled German Shepherd.
About the film - synopsis:
A high-stakes crew with a history embarks on a chance-of-a-lifetime heist, only to discover that trust is never an option.
Follow Marlyn on Instagram: @marlynbandiero
Eric Wolfinger is a James Beard Award-winning photographer and filmmaker known for capturing the soul of food and the people who make it. Called “the Annie Leibovitz of food photography” by The New York Times, he brings a rare combination of craft, compassion, and lived experience to every story he tells.
Before ever picking up a camera, Eric apprenticed as a baker at the famed San Francisco bakery Tartine, where he learned the discipline and intuition behind baking great bread. That firsthand understanding of craft laid the foundation for his work on the seminal cookbook “Tartine Bread,” which earned a James Beard Award nomination and launched his prolific career behind the lens.
Over the past 15 years, he’s contributed to more than 30 cookbooks featuring an array of the world’s finest chefs and directed films that explore the deeper narratives of food, culture, and sustainability including “Lisa Dahl: Blessed By Grace,” “Full Circle,” and “Dashi Journey.” Most recently, he’s contributed to The New York Times bestseller, "Does This Taste Funny?", by Stephen and Evie Colbert.
With the eye of a world class photographer and the heart of a cook, Eric’s work is shaped by trust, intimacy, and a genuine connection to the people whose stories he tells. His films speak with a humble brilliance, and his images feel as timeless as the traditions they honor.
About the film - synopsis:
"Lisa Dahl: Blessed By Grace" is a moving portrait of a mother’s resilience and the healing power of food. After the tragic loss of her son Justin, chef Lisa Dahl found solace and purpose in Sedona, Arizona—where the stunning red rocks, long revered for their spiritual energy, became the backdrop for her transformation. What began as a tribute to their shared love of cooking has grown into a legacy of six beloved restaurants that helped shape the region’s culinary identity. This heartfelt film explores how one woman’s faith, strength, and devotion turned unimaginable loss into lasting beauty—and how every dish she creates and every guest she serves keeps her son's spirit alive.
Jeremiah Kipp is an independent filmmaker based in New York. His directing credits include the award-winning horror SLAPFACE (Shudder Original; AMC+), the HP Lovecraft inspired BLACK WAKE, DRAW UP AND STARE starring Academy Award winner Melissa Leo, DON'T PICK UP starring Keith David & Kathryn Erbe, and the Chinese-American co-production BREAKING BADGES. His latest feature THE GEECHEE WITCH, shot in Savannah, GA and steeped in Southern Folklore, had a theatrical release in February 2024.
About the film - synopsis:
When Simin struggles in her intimacy with Harish, she seeks solace in her dream world. Discovering Charmaine and Antoine’s life which is rich in love, romance, passion and dance, a portal of inspiration opens, fueling her romantic journey with Harish and thus rekindling their timeless love.
About the film - synopsis:
Jess, a confident and ambitious woman, frequents bars in search of meeting the right one. As meetings progress, her encounters don’t always turn out as expected.
Jordan “Jordy” Rader is an award winning Director and DGA Assistant Director with a background in motion-picture, television, and commercial production.
Rader has appeared in titles for Netflix, Lionsgate, 20th Century Fox, Apple TV, Warner Brothers, Sony Pictures Entertainment, ABC Studios, CBS, FX Network, Spike, and TV Land.
Rader’s filmmaking journey started in her childhood where she made her first film when she was only twelve years old. In 2013, she graduated film school with honors and then joined the DGA Training program, launching her career in the entertainment industry.
About the film:
A Western Comedy film following Fritz "Fast-Fingers" Whelden’s quest for a show stopping duel.
Thyrone Tommy is a Canadian film director and screenwriter. After writing and directing the short film Mariner (2016), Tommy received acclaim for his work on the feature film Learn to Swim (2021), both of which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
About the film - synopsis:
Zury’s life has taught her that she cannot trust a soul, but when she lets her guard down and lets someone in, the choices of her past come back to haunt her. Will she turn back to her old ways for vengeance, or has she truly turned her back on her past for good?
Pittsburgh Born, New York City Dame who now plays the roles of Mom and Wife in Jersey.
Proud to be a working actor on stage, on camera, and in the VO booth, as well as a writer, director, chorepgrapher and producer.
Need her to belt and kick her face? She's there.
Complicated On Camera stunt sequence where she get killed by the hero in the end? Count Candi in.
Commercials for Phones/Bras/Dating Apps/Spaghetti or Bottles?
She's been there.
Hosting a dinner party while chasing 2 toddlers and making chimichurri?... please.
About the film - synopsis:
What happens when a mom gets pushed to the brink... by her adorable offspring?
Follow Candi on Instagram: @candiboyd_
"Stay at Home, Mom" on Instagram: @stayathomemomfilm
About the film - synopsis:
Emilia and Liam are preparing to welcome their new baby; as we follow their story, we learn how strong a mother's love is.
Originally from Montreal, Maggie Castle has been acting in film and television since she was too young to know better. With over 40 professional credits to her name, Maggie has landed roles in major Canadian and Hollywood features and television series. “Sole Suspect” is Maggie’s writing and directorial debut.
About the film:
Just when a retired detective thought she was finally out, her son’s missing shoes pull her back in.
Cassidy Krygger, based in Melbourne, Australia, is an actor, writer, film producer, presenter, and model.
Having started acting at six, she made her professional television debut at 15 on "Neighbours," and at 17, she began hosting her own show, "Adolesense." Her career spans theatre, television, and film roles, showcasing a diverse range of performances.
In 2021, Cassidy founded 'Daisy Productions,' dedicated to portraying overlooked stories of remarkable women. Her short film 'Daisy,' based on her great-grandparents' true story, which she wrote, executive produced, and starred in, premiered in 2024, earning acclaim at over 20 festivals and winning 14 awards, including multiple Best Actress honors.
With over 160,000 followers on her Instagram account 'Hollywoodland Photos,' focused on Old Hollywood, Cassidy's passion for this era has garnered significant media attention, including interviews on 'Today Extra' and features in publications such as the 'Daily Mail.'
Since a 2018 diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Cassidy has channeled her experience into advocating for diverse narratives and becoming a voice for those navigating the challenges of the disease.
About the film - synopsis:
"Daisy," inspired by the real-life tale of our writer's great-grandparents in 1930s Australia, unfolds the courageous journey of a young woman who defies societal expectations and risks losing everything as she embarks on a forbidden love affair, challenging the boundaries of family, faith, and the pursuit of true happiness.
Follow Cassidy Krygger on Instagram: @cassidykrygger
Connie Lamothe is an award winning filmmaker, director, producer, screenwriter, and actress. Her career began over 25 years ago in modeling and acting. She was a semi-finalist in the Mrs. Virginia Pageant and has judged many modeling and talent events. As a professional stage actress, she played the lead in the well loved comedy, "Joey and Maria's Italian Wedding" from 1999 to 2006. After two years with the Washington Metropolitan tour, she was promoted to Director and maintained her role.
Connie was also gaining film experience in films such as Contact, Something the Lord Made and The Invasion. She picked up a leading role in the independent film The Last Mango. At this point, Connie produced and directed Rosie's Miracle, which won "Best Family Short" in 2009 at the New York Independent International Film Festival and "Best Director" in 2010 at the World Music and International Film Festival in Washington, DC. Additionally, she completed her second film, "Reunion" which premiered in Northern Virginia in November 2010. The film followed in the footsteps of Rosie's Miracle and won "Best Family Short" after showing at the New York Independent International Film Festival in April of 2011. The film won "Best in Sound" at the World Music Independent Film Festival in August 2011 and Connie won "Best Actress" for her role in the film. The film was nominated for eight different awards overall. Reunion also won again in Spring 2012 at the Hot Media Film Festival with Connie as "Best Director" and Reunion as "Best Screenplay".
Connie completed production on her first full feature, Charity written by Michael Brennan. The film premiered at the World Music Independent Film Festival in August 2012 and won for "Best in Sound" by Italian composer Mauro Crivelli. Ms. Lamothe also won "Best Actress" for her role in the film, Your Last Six Inches, produced in 2011 by Daisy Lane Productions, . Connie then appeared in a documentary as herself, produced by Corey Williams, titled The DMV Truth which premiered in October, 2012. She finished out the year with another two films, a western (Day of the Gun) as Georgia Lamb, and the second as "Beth" in Reminisce.
In the Winter of 2013, Connie was nominated for Best Actress in Daisy Longs Production of Your Last Six Inches and CCLProductions Charity at the Hot Media International Film Festival (Spring 2013). She cast several area films such as My Second First Step and Inadequate. Additionally, she and her writing partner, Michael P. Brennan were contracted to begin writing the screenplay for the novel La Casa Nostra. At this same time, Connie cast and directed the dinner theatre style show and the television show of the "Wiseguy Kitchen: Dinner With The Mob" with celebrity Chef Vincent Fiore. She appeared in several episodes as herself as well.
In 2014, Connie produced Second Time Around, directed by Denene Crabbs. She also was the Executive Producer for When Life Gives You Lemons. In 2015 Connie directed and produced a faith based Christian short film, The Fourth Question. That same year, The Fourth Question one "Best Christian Short Film" at the World Music International Film Festival.
Connie co-directed and acted in Noor Naghmi's Documentary Angel's Within which are now appearing on Amazon and several streaming channels. In 2019, Connie wrote, produced and directed That Moment When" and won as the Top Favorite Film at the From a Distance Film Festival in 2020. In 2023, Connie re-wrote, produced and directed The Wooden Bowl, which was originally written with Michael P. Brennan in 2013. The film was premiered privately in January, 2024 in Virginia is being submitted to film festivals everywhere. Connie is working on the feature, The Driver, a crime based drama.
Ms. Lamothe has her own companies, CCLTalent (Boutique Talent Management) and CCLProductions. Connie was the Artistic Director of Growing Stage Theatre for five years and produced over 16 musical productions with casts of children ages 4 to 18. Today, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Flowertown Players in Summerville, SC at the historic James R Dean Theatre. She private coaches children and adults, but Connie particularly enjoys mentoring new young talent in the industry. She also is an avid animal lover and works to protect animals from abuse.
About the film - synopsis:
An age old tale, is reimagined in this modernized dramatic narrative about Michael Critelli who moves his frail old father, who suffers from dementia, into his families home. When the care required is much more than expected and causes relationship issues between Michael and his wife Catherine, one act by their son, 7 year old Bobby, turns the situation around enabling the Critelli family to find peace and happiness in their home once again.
Shadow C. LaValley is an American film, television and theatre actor and award winning filmmaker who resides in Los Angeles, California. Born and raised in central New York, Shadow is a graduate of both the State University of New York at Morrisville as well as the State University of New York at Oneonta.
About the film - synopsis:
A broken-spirited Tim struggles to navigate love and loss, only to find the extraordinary beauty of life from an ordinary can.
From filming Barbie dolls growing up, to directing her senior thesis film, Geo has always been passionate about creative expression through filmmaking. Throughout high school, Geo discovered her love for film directing while making short films in a student-led, video production class. Born and raised in Huntington Beach, California, little did she know her dream school was a short drive away. As a filmmaker with a passion for telling underrepresented stories, she hopes Dahlia will resonate with audiences and start conversations.
About the film - synopsis:
Meet Dahlia, a tattoo artist renowned for providing free self-harm cover-ups. As she finishes working on a client, she is shaken by the arrival of Atlas, her estranged father. Tensions rise as past wounds resurface, and Dahlia must confront the painful truths of her past while navigating her complicated relationship with her father.
Alyssa has been involved in the Film and Television industry for 10+ years. After establishing herself as an Actor, she then turned her attention to Directing and enrolled in short courses with the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) and with the Sundance institute as a member of their Collab program.
She had her directing debut in 2022 with short film 'Fostered' where she received a number of nominations for 'Best First Time Director' as well as the film winning a number of awards for 'Best Thriller'. The success of this experience inspired her to create female led production company- Fitzcarraldo Pictures.
Alyssa is passionate about creating content that explores the female experience and highlights the unique perspective of women.
About the film - synopsis:
"Daisy," inspired by the real-life tale of our writer's great-grandparents in 1930s Australia, unfolds the courageous journey of a young woman who defies societal expectations and risks losing everything as she embarks on a forbidden love affair, challenging the boundaries of family, faith, and the pursuit of true happiness.
Danielle Purdy is an American film, television and theatre actress and makeup artist living and working in Los Angeles, California. Born and raised in central New York, Danielle took a vivid interest in acting and all things theatre-related at the young age of 11. Danielle is a graduate of the State University of New York at Oneonta, where she earned a B.A in Theatre as well as a B.S in Psychology.
About the film - synopsis:
A broken-spirited Tim struggles to navigate love and loss, only to find the extraordinary beauty of life from an ordinary can.
Katherine Fan, a student of Computer Animation at Ringling College of Art and Design, is driven by a passion for creating and storytelling through her artwork, aiming to bring joy to her audience. Throughout her time at Ringling College, she has immersed herself in the world of animation, finding particular enjoyment in the CG process, with aspirations of becoming a CG Generalist and 3D Modeler.
Born in the United States but raised in Taipei, Taiwan, Katherine brings a unique perspective to her art, shaped by her multicultural experiences and a deep appreciation for adaptability. Despite initial familial resistance to her artistic ambitions, she persisted, ultimately winning their support through her dedication and love for art. Her artistic journey began amidst the creative environment fostered by her grandfather's love for art, leading to a childhood filled with colorful exploration. She found joy in doodling anywhere around the house. The moment that solidified her passion for animation occurred while watching "Tangled," a beloved film that continues to inspire her to this day.
Katherine infuses her artwork with elements inspired by her multicultural upbringing and the relationships she cherishes with friends and family. Guided by the belief that dedication and hard work are the cornerstones of success, she embraces each project with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence.
As she continues to evolve as an artist, Katherine remains driven by a desire to push the boundaries of storytelling through animation, seeking to inspire and connect with audiences around the world. With her creative vision and technical prowess, she stands poised to make a lasting impact in the world of animation and beyond.
About the film - synopsis:
A stress toy that is traumatized by bullying and abuse decided to go to therapy. He thought it would be a good start to have peace of mind but little does he know, the therapist isn’t very professional. The therapist wasn’t paying attention to him and was doing crossword puzzles. After the stress toy finds out, he decides to take his stress out on the therapist to relieve his stress.
Born and raised in Rhode Island, Deanna recently graduated from Ringling College of Art + Design with a BFA in Computer Animation. She has practiced digital illustration since age 12, and has focused on practicing digital art ever since. She has had her work showcased in Best of Ringling (2022), has earned a Rhode Island Senate Citation, and has been apart of the National Art Honors Society (VP) in her senior year of high school, along with other awards and mentions.
About the film - synopsis:
In a medieval fantasy world, Elliot the adventurer wants to obtain Aurelia's Enchanted Spell Book from her long lost temple. However, after waiting thousands of years for a potential new apprentice, Aurelia appears, and intends on keeping him from obtaining the book until she finishes making her grand entrance.
Dena founded the company in 2018 and works as a Producer, Director, and Filmmaker.
Her back ground is in nonprofit management and she has also started two companies.
She started acting in musical theater and signed with a talent agent in 2016. She has acted in local and regional films, commercials and corporate videos. She served on the Theater in the Park Advisory Board and Exective Board for several years and was President in 2017.
In 2018 she decided that she had heard enough compelling stories that she wanted to tell and started her production company, Butterfly Road Productions. Since then, she has completed four films three of which are short documentaries. Her passion is telling compelling, passionate and hopeful stories that can inspire her audience. Her first documentary “Finding Peace” was selected for seven film festivals across the country and won a best short documentary award. Her most recent film “Mildred’s Escape, A WW2 Survival Story” has been selected for seven film festivals and won three awards. Her most recent documentary “Small Town Girl, Big Heart” Abby’s Courage was shot on location in Houston, TX.
She has been married for over 33 years and has two children and two grandchildren
About the film - synopsis:
A spirited girl from a small town in Texas finds her world changed drastically after a tragic accident where she was thrown from her truck and landed in front of a speeding train.
This is a true miracle story of how she not only survived but thrived in the face of her disability.
She talks about learning from her biggest regret and how she is moving forward.
I am a passionate actor and writer with a rich heritage rooted in the Dominican Republic. As a Toronto-based artist, I strive to bring authentic and heartfelt performances to every project I undertake. I am an alumnus of the prestigious CBC Actors Conservatory, Class of 2023-2024, at the Canadian Film Centre. During my time there, I starred in and made my writing debut in the short film ZURY, which has been chosen as an Official Selection in the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival, 2024, earning a nomination for, Best Film – Canada, and where I have been honored with a nomination for Best Actress.
About the film - synopsis:
Zury’s life has taught her that she cannot trust a soul, but when she lets her guard down and lets someone in, the choices of her past come back to haunt her. Will she turn back to her old ways for vengeance, or has she truly turned her back on her past for good?
Follow Milcania on Instagram: @milcania_
Website Milcania.com
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