Ryan Oksenberg, a talented filmmaker hailing from Toronto, Canada, has had a remarkable journey in the world of cinema. His academic background is impressive, having graduated from the esteemed School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
As a filmmaker, Oksenberg is driven by a deep desire to explore the complexities of human nature through his characters. He strives to portray these characters with a sense of dignity, even when they are flawed or exhibit humorous moments. This pursuit is not without its challenges, as Oksenberg has acknowledged that it often leaves him feeling depressed, angry, happy, or even insane. However, his dedication to his craft is unwavering, as he is driven by a relentless desire to capture the truth on film.
Oksenberg's feature debut, "Foibles," showcases his unique perspective and skill as a filmmaker. His short films have garnered significant attention, premiering in competition at prestigious festivals such as Fantasia, BIFAN, and the Austin Film Festival. In 2019, his short film "Together" won the coveted $50K StudioFest prize, and it has since been viewed by over 470,000 people on ALTER. Additionally, his 2020 short film "New Not Normal" took home the award for "Best Midnight Short" at the Nightmares Film Festival.
Beyond his work in fiction, Oksenberg has also explored the world of documentary filmmaking. His thesis documentary, "Cease To Exist," delves into the fascinating story of Charles Manson's musical aspirations and their connection to the infamous Helter Skelter murders. This documentary, which Oksenberg uploaded to YouTube as early as 2007, has garnered over 1 million views to date.
Throughout his career, Oksenberg has demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft compelling stories that captivate audiences. His dedication to his craft, his willingness to take risks, and his passion for exploring the human condition make him an exciting talent to watch in the world of filmmaking.
