Learn from the Best in the Industry

At Director's Cut Academy, our instructors are not just teachers – they are seasoned professionals with years of experience in the film industry. Gain invaluable insights and mentorship from award-winning directors, cinematographers, editors, and screenwriters.

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Meet Our Esteemed Instructors

Professional headshot of Anya Sharma, award-winning film director

Anya Sharma

Directing for Film

Anya Sharma is an award-winning film director with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Her films have been screened at prestigious film festivals around the world, including Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto. She has won numerous awards for her work, including the Independent Spirit Award for Best Director. Anya brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the classroom, guiding students through the complexities of directing, from pre-production planning to on-set execution and post-production refinement. She specializes in helping students develop their unique directorial vision and translate their creative ideas into compelling cinematic narratives.

Credentials

  • Independent Spirit Award for Best Director
  • DGA Award Nomination
  • BA in Film Production, UCLA
  • MFA in Directing, USC School of Cinematic Arts
Professional headshot of Ben Carter, experienced and innovative cinematographer

Ben Carter

Cinematography

Ben Carter is an experienced and innovative cinematographer known for his stunning visual storytelling. He has worked on a variety of projects, including feature films, television shows, and commercials. Ben has a deep understanding of camera operation, lighting techniques, and visual composition, and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge with aspiring cinematographers. His expertise lies in crafting evocative and visually striking images that enhance the emotional impact of a film. Students will learn practical skills in lighting design, camera movement, and color grading, as well as gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic possibilities of cinematography.

Credentials

  • ASC Award Nomination
  • Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Cinematography
  • BA in Film Studies, New York University
  • Certified DaVinci Resolve Colorist
Professional portrait of Chloe Davis, seasoned film editor with years of experience

Chloe Davis

Film Editing

Chloe Davis is a seasoned film editor with over a decade of experience in the industry. She has worked on numerous critically acclaimed films and television shows, collaborating with some of the most talented directors and producers in Hollywood. Chloe is a master of pacing, rhythm, and narrative structure, and she excels at shaping raw footage into compelling and engaging stories. She guides students through the intricacies of editing software, teaching them how to craft seamless transitions, build suspense, and enhance the emotional impact of a scene. Students will learn not only the technical aspects of editing but also the art of storytelling through visual manipulation.

Credentials

  • ACE Eddie Award Winner
  • BAFTA Nomination for Best Editing
  • Proficient in Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, and Final Cut Pro
  • Guest Lecturer at AFI Conservatory
Professional headshot of David Evans, acclaimed screenwriter and story consultant

David Evans

Screenwriting

David Evans is an acclaimed screenwriter and story consultant with a proven track record of success in Hollywood. He has written for both film and television, and his scripts have been praised for their originality, wit, and emotional depth. David has a gift for crafting compelling characters, building intricate plots, and creating dialogue that crackles with authenticity. He teaches students the fundamentals of screenwriting, from outlining and character development to scene construction and dialogue writing. His approach emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a craft and encourages students to find their unique voice as writers.

Credentials

  • WGA Award Winner
  • Golden Globe Nomination for Best Screenplay
  • MFA in Screenwriting, University of Southern California
  • Story Consultant for major studios
Smiling photo of Director's Cut Academy Alumni, Maria Rodriguez

Featured Instructor: Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez, a graduate of Director's Cut Academy, has returned as a guest instructor, sharing her real-world experiences and insights with current students. Maria's independent film, "Echoes of the City," premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim and won the Audience Award. Her journey from a student to a successful filmmaker is an inspiration to all our students, and her passion for storytelling is infectious.

Alumni Success Stories

Carlos Ramirez - From Student to Studio Editor

Carlos Ramirez, a Director's Cut Academy alumnus, landed a coveted editing position at a major Hollywood studio just months after graduating. His skills in Avid Media Composer and storytelling abilities, honed during his time at the academy, made him a standout candidate. He now contributes to blockbuster films, shaping narratives that reach millions of viewers worldwide.

Sofia Khan - Indie Filmmaker on the Rise

Sofia Khan, a directing graduate, has quickly established herself as a prominent voice in independent cinema. Her debut feature film, "The Last Bookstore," a poignant exploration of urban life in Los Angeles, has garnered critical acclaim and won several awards at independent film festivals. Sofia credits Director's Cut Academy for providing her with the practical skills and creative confidence to pursue her passion.

Ethan Blake - Screenwriter Selling Scripts

Ethan Blake, a screenwriting alumnus, has successfully broken into the competitive world of Hollywood screenwriting. He has sold multiple scripts to production companies and is currently working on a television pilot for a streaming service. Ethan emphasizes the importance of the foundational knowledge he gained at Director's Cut Academy, particularly the emphasis on character development and compelling dialogue.