Liane Brandon is a highly acclaimed and accomplished independent filmmaker, photographer, and esteemed Professor Emeritus at the University of Massachusetts/Amherst, boasting a distinguished career marked by numerous accolades and recognition.
As a pioneering figure, she played a groundbreaking role among the initial group of independent women filmmakers to emerge from the Women's Movement, paving the way for future generations of female filmmakers and photographers.
Brandon was a highly engaged and prominent figure during this particular time period, actively participating in the Newsreel film collective, a renowned and influential organization that produced and distributed documentary films. Additionally, she was a dedicated and passionate member of Bread and Roses, one of the earliest and most pioneering women's liberation groups in the city of Boston, where she worked tirelessly to advance the cause of women's rights and empowerment.
Furthermore, Brandon co-founded two groundbreaking organizations: FilmWomen of Boston, a pioneering initiative that sought to promote and support women's filmmaking in the city, and Boston Film/Video Foundation, a vital organization that aimed to foster and develop the local film and video production community. Her contributions to these organizations had a profound impact on the development of the film industry in Boston and beyond.
Moreover, Brandon was also a founding member of New Day Films, a nationally recognized and respected filmmaker distribution cooperative that played a crucial role in providing a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work and reach a wider audience. Her involvement with this organization helped to shape the landscape of independent filmmaking in the United States and beyond.
Brandon's trailblazing cinematic creations, consisting of the pivotal films "Anything You Want To Be" (1971) and "Betty Tells Her Story" (1972),played a significant role in fostering a heightened awareness and advocating for women's liberation. Her remarkable oeuvre, which also encompasses "Once Upon A Choice", "How To Prevent A Nuclear War", and "Fine Print", has received widespread recognition and accolades at both the national and international levels, and has been showcased on prominent television networks such as HBO, USA Cable, TLC, and Cinemax.
Brandon's cinematic endeavors have garnered widespread critical acclaim, securing prestigious Blue Ribbons at the American Film Festival on not one, but two notable occasions. His impressive body of work has also been showcased at some of the world's most renowned institutions, including the iconic Museum of Modern Art, the esteemed Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the avant-garde Whitney Museum of American Art, the celebrated Chicago Art Institute, and the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival.
Brandon has not only made a significant impact in the film industry, but she has also demonstrated her versatility and talent by venturing into the realm of still photography, boasting an impressive portfolio that includes credits for a variety of high-profile projects.
One of her notable works is the documentary series "Murder at Harvard" featured on PBS American Experience, which showcases her exceptional skill in capturing poignant and thought-provoking images.
Additionally, Brandon's photographic expertise was showcased in the PBS Nova documentary "Typhoid Mary: The Most Dangerous Woman In America", a testament to her ability to effectively convey complex stories through her lens.
Her work also extends to the realm of television, with credits including the popular series "Unsolved Mysteries", where she brought her unique perspective to the world of documentary storytelling.
Furthermore, Brandon's photography skills were utilized in the production of "The Powder & the Glory", a documentary that highlights her attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of its subjects.
Lastly, her work on "Louisa May Alcott: The Woman Behind Little Women" for PBS American Masters is a testament to her versatility and ability to adapt to different projects and themes, resulting in a stunning visual representation of the life and legacy of the renowned author.
The photography of this esteemed individual has been showcased in a wide range of prominent publications, including, but not limited to, the esteemed newspaper of record, The New York Times, as well as the respected metropolitan dailies, the Los Angeles Times and the Boston Globe, not to mention the influential tabloid, the New York Daily News, and numerous other notable outlets, all of which have featured her captivating images, in addition to her work being exhibited in various esteemed gallery spaces.
Brandon's professional trajectory has been marked by an impressive array of accolades, with a notable mention being the esteemed Boston Society of Film Critics Award, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Furthermore, she has been honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award from Boston University, a recognition of her outstanding achievements and the university's pride in her success.
In addition to her numerous awards and accolades, Brandon has also made significant contributions to the film industry through her work as a juror for the student Academy Awards. Her expertise and discerning eye have undoubtedly played a crucial role in identifying and promoting emerging talent in the industry.
Beyond her work in film, Brandon has also applied her knowledge and skills to the realm of education, serving as an education consultant for WGBH-TV. In this capacity, she has likely shared her insights and expertise with educators and students alike, helping to shape the next generation of filmmakers and media professionals.
Overall, Brandon's impressive career has been marked by a consistent display of excellence, innovation, and dedication, earning her a reputation as a respected and accomplished figure in the film industry.
Brandon's professional endeavors have garnered significant attention from a diverse array of esteemed publications, boasting a vast and impressive list of media outlets that have featured his work, including but not limited to The Boston Globe, International Documentary Magazine, Variety, The Chicago Tribune, Film Library Quarterly, Documentary Storytelling for Film, Videomakers, and numerous other prominent and respected publications.
Brandon's journey as a filmmaker was preceded by a diverse array of short-lived yet intriguing occupations, which served as a catalyst for his creative pursuits.
Brandon, a stalwart champion of the rights of media artists, has consistently dedicated himself to promoting and defending the interests of this vital creative community.
Through his tireless efforts, Brandon has secured a major milestone in the fight for filmmakers' rights, culminating in the landmark lawsuit Brandon v. The Regents of the University of California.
This groundbreaking case has yielded a significant victory, safeguarding the intellectual property of filmmakers and ensuring the protection of their titles.
As a result, Brandon's work has paved the way for a safer and more secure environment for media artists to create, innovate, and thrive.
Through his unwavering commitment to the cause, Brandon continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who share his passion for artistic expression and creative freedom.
