Born in Japan, Michelle Opitz's life took a dramatic turn when she was raised in the sun-kissed state of Hawaii, a move that would forever shape her artistic vision and creative trajectory. As a Marion Knott Scholar, she had the esteemed privilege of studying under the tutelage of renowned directors John Badham, whose iconic film "Saturday Night Fever" continues to captivate audiences to this day, and Mark Rydell, whose poignant drama "On Golden Pond" won the hearts of viewers worldwide. This exceptional educational foundation laid the groundwork for her future success in the film industry.
Michelle's academic pursuits took her to the esteemed American Film Institute and Chapman University, where she honed her craft as a director and immersed herself in the art of filmmaking. Her feature film debut, "Between the Miles," marked a significant milestone in her career, as it premiered at five prestigious film festivals and earned accolades, including the coveted Best Film and Best Actress awards.
Throughout her illustrious career, Michelle's films and documentaries have garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, with her projects consistently making the rounds at prominent film festivals and winning awards. To date, she has produced an impressive slate of over five feature films, a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and artistic vision.
Michelle's unique blend of Japanese and American cultural heritage has instilled in her a deep desire to create films that showcase a more diverse representation of Asian-Americans on the big screen. As a Japanese-American filmmaker, she is driven by a sense of responsibility to tell stories that challenge stereotypes and promote greater understanding and empathy between cultures.
In addition to her work as a writer, director, and producer, Michelle is also an accomplished educator, sharing her expertise and passion for film with the next generation of filmmakers. She is an active advocate for projects that resonate with her values and artistic sensibilities, using her platform to promote positive change and social awareness.
