Michael Merino is a globally recognized and accomplished film industry expert, boasting an extensive array of successful projects and experiences.
His professional journey began with humble beginnings as a production assistant, where he worked in multiple departments, including art, camera, electric, grip, hair and make-up, wardrobe, sound, props, catering, and construction, gaining valuable hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the filmmaking process.
As he continued to grow and develop his skills, Michael also honed his expertise as an editor, refining his ability to craft compelling narratives and visually stunning sequences.
Eventually, he shifted his focus to directing, producing, and writing, leveraging his diverse skillset and industry connections to bring his unique vision to life on the big screen.
Born in the vibrant city of Washington, D.C., Merino's early life was immersed in a rich cultural tapestry, shaped by the unique blend of his Irish-British-German mother and his Mexican father of Spanish-Basque descent. This diverse familial heritage instilled in him a profound admiration for languages and cultures beyond the Americas, fostering a sense of global curiosity and understanding. With a strong foundation in languages, Merino is fluent in Spanish, and his extensive travels have taken him to various countries, where he has spent nearly six years working and living abroad. His adventurous spirit led him to participate in the exhilarating running of the bulls in Spain, as well as face the challenges of being detained during a coup in Fiji. Throughout his travels, Merino has held a variety of occupations, including short-order cook, ladies' shoe salesman, carpenter, bartender, pizza maker, door-to-door salesman, house painter, and peach picker in the picturesque town of Stanthorpe, Australia.
As a multifaceted individual, Merino's academic pursuits were merely the beginning of his remarkable journey. Beyond the confines of his university studies, he simultaneously held membership with the esteemed New York State Bar Association, further solidifying his professional reputation.
In addition to his legal expertise, Merino has also made a name for himself as a freelance journalist, collaborating with prominent news organizations across the globe. His impressive portfolio includes work with renowned media outlets such as MSNBC, CNN, Turkish TV, and Fox News.
However, a life-changing diving accident served as a poignant wake-up call, prompting Merino to reassess his priorities and redirect his focus towards a career in the arts. This transformative experience led him to enroll in the prestigious Rockport's International Film School, where he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of the creative process.
Furthermore, Merino's artistic inclinations also led him to The Corcoran School of Art, a renowned institution that has produced some of the world's most talented artists. Through his rigorous training and dedication to his craft, Merino has emerged as a master of his chosen medium, his work a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit.
Noted filmmaker Merino made his feature film debut with the award-winning action movie The Deal in 2003, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in the industry. This was followed by the horror feature The Milkman in 2006, which showcased his versatility as a director. In 2010, he released the thriller 502, which went on to win the prestigious Shakes Award at the Dead Time Film Festival.
His critically acclaimed film Our Last Supper was released in 2012, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the film world. In 2015, Merino's feature film The Haunting of Pearson Place won him the coveted Best Director and Best Writer awards at the Scare-A-Con film festival in Syracuse, New York. The film received an impressive two dozen nominations worldwide and won over 20 awards, a testament to its exceptional quality.
Merino's success extended to the world of short films as well, as he won Best Director and Best Screenplay awards for his short films Times Up and Dream On at the WMIFF in 2014.
Noted film industry professional Merino garnered recognition for his regional commercial and training video work spanning from 2013 to 2017. In 2016, he took on the multifaceted role of producer, writer, and director for the web series DRAKUL, which was eventually released in 2017. Fast forward to 2019, Merino's action-packed thriller ACCELERATION hit the big screen, boasting an impressive cast including Dolph Lundgren, Danny Trejo, Chuck Liddell, Natalie Burn, and Sean Patrick Flanery. This cinematic masterpiece went on to win the prestigious Best Director award at the NIAFFS Spain 2020. When not working on his latest projects, Merino divides his time between the vibrant cities of Austin, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, and is often spotted showcasing his charming and playful pirate persona.
