Giovanna Chesler is an esteemed filmmaker, director, and educator who has made a significant impact in the world of cinema, particularly in the realm of documentary and narrative filmmaking. Her body of work is characterized by a deep-seated fascination with the intricacies of the human body, the complexities of sexuality, and the multifaceted nature of gender.
Throughout her illustrious career, Giovanna has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft films that are both thought-provoking and visually stunning, often delving into topics that are both personal and universal in their appeal. Her dedication to her craft has earned her a reputation as a master storyteller, capable of conveying complex emotions and ideas with ease and precision.
In addition to her impressive body of work, Giovanna is also a highly respected educator, having spent many years imparting her knowledge and expertise to the next generation of filmmakers. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor and Program Director of Film and Video Studies at George Mason University, where she is responsible for guiding and mentoring a talented group of students as they pursue their own creative endeavors.
As a result of her tireless efforts, Giovanna has become a beloved figure in the academic community, renowned for her passion, her expertise, and her unwavering commitment to her students. Her influence extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, however, as her films continue to inspire and educate audiences around the world.
Giovanna's academic credentials are truly noteworthy, boasting a Master of Fine Arts degree in Cinema from the esteemed San Francisco State University, where she honed her skills in the art of filmmaking. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology from the University of Virginia, complemented by a minor in Women's Studies, demonstrating her well-rounded education and broad-based knowledge.
Giovanna's impressive professional portfolio showcases a remarkable diversity of films, featuring a wide range of cinematic endeavors that demonstrate her versatility and expertise in the industry. One notable example is the short drama "JAVA", a captivating tale of an artist's all-consuming fascination with a coffee addict, skillfully produced by the talented Lisa Thrasher.
Giovanna was handpicked as a distinguished Film Independent Fast Track fellow for her outstanding work on Out in the Night, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to the film industry. Currently, she is pouring her heart and soul into developing JAVA into a feature-length film, a project that promises to be a masterpiece.
Prior to this, Giovanna has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema with her impressive array of previous works. One of her most notable achievements is the short melodrama Bye Bi Love, a poignant and powerful exploration of the human experience.
Her feature documentary on cultural and medical trends in menstruation, distributed by the renowned Cinema Guild in New York, is another notable achievement that showcases her ability to tackle complex and thought-provoking subjects.
Giovanna has also explored the realm of beauty and its impact on relationships with her trilogy, BeauteouS, a thought-provoking examination of the intricate bonds between three sisters and their individual relationships with beauty.
Furthermore, her reflexive documentary hand-some, distributed by the Canadian Filmmakers Distribution Centre, provides a candid and intimate look at a failing lesbian relationship, a testament to her skill in crafting nuanced and emotionally resonant storytelling.
Giovanna's cinematic endeavors have garnered a multitude of prestigious awards, with a notable mention being the Honorable Mention in Fiction Filmmaking bestowed upon her by the University Film and Video Association for her captivating film, Bye Bi Love.
In addition, her remarkable documentary, BeauteouS: Stephanie, earned the esteemed Gold Plaque for Best Student Documentary at the renowned Chicago International Film Festival.
Furthermore, Giovanna's feature documentary, Period: The End of Menstruation, has garnered widespread global attention, serving as a significant touchstone in the ongoing debate surrounding menstrual suppression. This remarkable film has even been featured on the front page of The New York Times, a testament to its profound impact and relevance.
Giovanna's cinematic endeavors have garnered significant attention, with her films being showcased at a staggering 110 international festivals spanning across more than 15 countries.
In addition to her work in film, Giovanna has also ventured into the realm of new media, creating innovative projects that push the boundaries of storytelling and engagement. One such project is Tune in HPV, a pioneering web television channel dedicated to raising awareness, promoting expression, and providing entertainment around the critical issue of human papillomavirus.
Through her production company, G6 Pictures, Giovanna not only produces high-quality content but also provides a platform for progressive organizations and feminist artists to share their voices and stories with a wider audience.
Giovanna has been actively involved in a variety of projects that showcase her exceptional filmmaking skills and dedication to storytelling. One of her recent endeavors was a documentary for the Pompeii Food and Drink Project, a project that aimed to shed light on the culinary world and its rich cultural heritage.
In addition to this project, Giovanna has also worked on a portrait documentary series for WIN - Women in Need, a shelter program that provides vital support to homeless women and their families in New York City. This series highlights the stories and struggles of these remarkable women, offering a glimpse into their lives and the challenges they face.
Furthermore, Giovanna has created short documentaries for the Center for Women's Global Leadership at Rutgers University, a prestigious institution dedicated to promoting gender equality and empowering women worldwide. These documentaries serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness about critical issues affecting women and girls globally.
As a professional filmmaker, Giovanna is an active member of various organizations that support her craft. She is a proud member of the Independent Filmmakers Project (IFP),Film Independent, Women in Film and Video-DC, and the University Film and Video Association (UFVA). Moreover, Giovanna plays a vital role in the IndieCaucus Steering Committee, a collective that aims to promote diversity and inclusion in the film industry.
Through her work, Giovanna has established herself as a talented and dedicated filmmaker, with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to creating content that inspires and empowers.
