Mike's extraordinary life story is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft, as well as his unrelenting passion for innovation and creativity. Born and raised in a small town in the Midwest, Mike's early years were marked by a sense of curiosity and a desire to make a lasting impact on the world.
As a young adult, Mike's fascination with technology and engineering led him to pursue higher education in these fields, where he quickly established himself as a talented and driven individual. His academic achievements and innovative ideas earned him recognition and accolades, paving the way for a successful career in the tech industry.
Throughout his professional journey, Mike has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to new challenges and push the boundaries of what is possible. His tireless work ethic and commitment to excellence have allowed him to build a reputation as a trusted and respected leader in his field.
Despite his many accomplishments, Mike remains humble and grounded, crediting his success to the support of his loved ones and the unwavering encouragement of his mentors. His inspiring story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for those seeking to make a difference in the world.
As a testament to his enduring legacy, Mike's impact on the tech industry continues to be felt, with his innovative ideas and pioneering spirit inspiring a new generation of leaders and innovators.
Mike's academic pursuits came to a close after completing his film program at Rochester Institute of Technology, whereupon he embarked on an exciting new chapter in his life, setting his sights on the state of Utah.
It was in Utah that Mike secured a prestigious position with the renowned Sundance Institute, led by the esteemed Robert Redford. As a key member of the team, Mike was responsible for managing the Sundance Film Festival's Press Screening Room, a critical component of the festival's operations.
In addition to his duties in the Press Screening Room, Mike also oversaw the Sundance Outreach Program, a vital initiative aimed at promoting the festival's mission and values to a wider audience.
Furthermore, Mike played a crucial role in supporting the Sundance Institute's Screenwriter & Directors Labs, two highly respected programs that provide emerging talent with the guidance and mentorship they need to hone their craft.
Throughout his tenure with the Sundance Institute, Mike had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and accomplished individuals in the film industry, including Oscar-winning advisors such as Callie Khouri and Christopher McQuarrie. Under their guidance, Mike received a comprehensive education in writing and directing, one that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
Notable biographical highlights of Mike's illustrious career include his tenure as a commercial television copywriter and director, where he garnered critical acclaim by winning the prestigious ADDY award for Best TV Commercial in the State of Utah.
Moreover, Mike co-founded the esteemed New Century Writer Awards in collaboration with renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola and his esteemed literary publication, All-Story Magazine. This remarkable endeavor played a significant role in fostering the careers of numerous writers, while also serving as a launching pad for the discovery of notable literary talents such as the acclaimed author Joe Hill.
Mike's journey began with summers spent traversing the vast expanse of Europe, immersing himself in the rich cultural heritage of the Celtic Circle, where he discovered a deep appreciation for the region's unique blend of history, mythology, and artistic expression.
Upon relocating to the City of Angels, Los Angeles, Mike further expanded his creative horizons by honing his skills as an assistant director on a diverse array of independent feature films. This invaluable experience allowed him to develop a profound understanding of the intricacies of filmmaking, from script development to post-production, and to refine his craft as a storyteller.
As a writer and director, Mike has crafted several award-winning short films that have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. His critically acclaimed shorts, "A Karma Thing" and "Mr. Roberts," have received prestigious accolades for Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Horror Short, among others.
Mike's inaugural feature film, titled "A Girl, A Guy, A Space Helmet," has made its debut and is currently accessible on Tubi TV for viewers to enjoy.
In addition to his feature film endeavors, Mike is diligently working on the post-production process for an "80s style creature feature" short film, cleverly titled "The Eyes." This upcoming short film boasts an impressive cast, featuring the talented Ace Marerro, and is slated to make its highly anticipated premiere in the fall of 2022.
Mike's impressive career as a screenwriter-for-hire has seen him craft screenplays across a diverse range of genres, including the gritty and rugged world of westerns, the thrilling and chilling realm of horror, and the high-octane, adrenaline-fueled landscape of action.
Among his numerous accomplishments, Mike's original work, "Black Meadows", has achieved a significant milestone, being optioned and subsequently attached to a trio of esteemed industry professionals, including the talented Zoe Bell, the versatile Tim Roth, and the acclaimed Taika Waititi.
Furthermore, Mike has successfully sold his screenplays to a variety of production companies, including the renowned Arkoff Productions, the innovative Polaris Pictures, and the prominent iConnect Films, to name just a few.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of New York, Mike's early life on the streets imbued him with a distinct creative energy that has continued to fuel his artistic endeavors. This innate spark is evident in his multifaceted approach to filmmaking, where he seamlessly blends the roles of writer and director, bringing a unique perspective to the editing process.
As a writer, Mike crafts compelling narratives that serve as the foundation for his films, infusing them with a gritty realism born from his own experiences growing up in the city. His words come alive on the page, painting vivid pictures that transport audiences to the very streets he once called home.
Meanwhile, as a director, Mike brings his characters to life, coaxing nuanced performances from his actors that add depth and emotion to the story. His keen eye for detail and ability to block scenes with precision ensure that every frame is meticulously crafted, further enriching the overall cinematic experience.
But Mike's true mastery lies in his ability to shape the creative elements of a film as production develops. With a keen sense of intuition, he anticipates the needs of the project, making adjustments and fine-tuning the script, casting, and editing to ensure that the final product is nothing short of exceptional.
Throughout his career, Mike has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of the filmmaking process, effortlessly juggling multiple roles to bring his unique vision to life. His dedication to his craft is evident in every frame, every performance, and every note he takes – a testament to his unwavering passion for storytelling and his unrelenting pursuit of artistic excellence.
