Meet Our Expert Instructors

At Director's Cut Academy, we pride ourselves on providing our students with the highest quality instruction from seasoned professionals in the film and media arts industries. Our instructors bring years of experience, passion, and a commitment to helping you achieve your creative goals. Located in the heart of Los Feliz, Los Angeles, our academy attracts top talent from nearby studios and production companies, ensuring you learn from the best in the business.

Mark Olsen

Directing

Mark Olsen is a veteran director with over 20 years of experience in film and television. He has directed episodes of popular TV series such as "City of Angels" and "Hollywood Dreams," and his independent films have screened at prestigious film festivals worldwide. Mark is passionate about helping aspiring directors find their unique voice and develop the skills they need to succeed in the industry.

Mark's directing philosophy emphasizes collaboration, visual storytelling, and working effectively with actors. He teaches students how to break down a script, create a shot list, and manage a film set with confidence. Mark holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Southern California and has been teaching at Director's Cut Academy for over 10 years.

Elena Ramirez

Screenwriting

Elena Ramirez is an award-winning screenwriter with credits on numerous feature films and television shows. Her most recent film, "Echoes of the Past," won the Best Screenplay award at the Los Angeles Film Festival. Elena brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her screenwriting classes, guiding students through the process of crafting compelling stories, developing memorable characters, and mastering the art of dialogue.

Elena is known for her ability to help students unlock their creative potential and find their unique writing style. She emphasizes the importance of structure, character development, and world-building in creating successful screenplays. Elena is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the film industry and encourages her students to tell stories that reflect the richness and complexity of the world around us. Elena earned her degree in Screenwriting from UCLA and has been inspiring aspiring writers at Director's Cut Academy for the past 8 years.

David Chen

Cinematography

David Chen is a highly sought-after cinematographer with a portfolio that includes independent films, commercials, and music videos. He has worked with renowned directors and actors and is known for his innovative and visually stunning work. David's cinematography classes cover a wide range of topics, from camera operation and lighting techniques to composition and visual storytelling.

David's teaching style is hands-on and practical, allowing students to gain real-world experience in all aspects of cinematography. He is passionate about helping students develop their own unique visual style and master the technical skills they need to bring their creative visions to life. David is a graduate of the American Film Institute and is an active member of the Society of Camera Operators. He brings cutting-edge knowledge and industry trends to his students at Director's Cut Academy.

Sarah Johnson

Film Editing

Sarah Johnson is an award-winning film editor with over 15 years of experience in the industry. She has edited numerous feature films, documentaries, and television shows and has worked with some of the most talented directors in Hollywood. Sarah's editing classes focus on the art of storytelling through editing, teaching students how to shape the narrative, create emotional impact, and enhance the overall viewing experience.

Sarah believes that editing is more than just cutting and splicing footage; it's about crafting a cohesive and compelling story. She teaches students how to work effectively with directors, understand the rhythm and pacing of a film, and use editing techniques to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes. Sarah holds a Master of Arts degree from Chapman University and has been sharing her expertise with students at Director's Cut Academy for the last 5 years.

Anya Petrova

Founder, Directing & Advanced Filmmaking

Anya Petrova, the founder of Director's Cut Academy, is an internationally acclaimed director known for her unique blend of artistry and technical expertise. With films showcased at Cannes and Sundance, Anya brings a wealth of experience and an unparalleled passion for filmmaking to her students. She specializes in advanced directing techniques, script analysis, and the business of film, providing invaluable insights into the industry.

Anya's commitment to nurturing new talent is at the heart of Director's Cut Academy. She emphasizes the importance of originality, collaboration, and a deep understanding of cinematic language. Her workshops on independent filmmaking and creative storytelling are highly sought after, making her an exceptional mentor to aspiring filmmakers.

Ben Carter

Sound Design

Ben Carter is a leading sound designer in Los Angeles, renowned for his innovative work on major motion pictures and indie films alike. He's been nominated for multiple awards, including a Golden Reel Award for his contribution to "The Silent Echo." At Director’s Cut Academy, Ben teaches the intricacies of sound recording, mixing, and editing, offering students a comprehensive understanding of how sound shapes a film’s emotional impact.

With a hands-on approach, Ben guides students through real-world projects, focusing on both the creative and technical aspects of sound design. His expertise spans from foley artistry to advanced digital audio workstations, ensuring students gain the skills they need to excel in this dynamic field.

Chloe Davis

Production Design

Chloe Davis is an accomplished production designer whose work has graced both the small and large screens. With a background in architecture and a passion for storytelling, Chloe creates immersive and captivating worlds for films and TV shows. At Director’s Cut Academy, she teaches students the fundamentals of production design, including set design, prop selection, and visual storytelling.

Chloe's courses focus on the practical aspects of production design, from creating concept art and mood boards to managing budgets and working with crews. Her students learn how to transform a script into a visual reality, enhancing the film's narrative and emotional impact.

Leo Martinez

Lighting and Grip

Leo Martinez is a seasoned lighting and grip expert with over 15 years of experience on film sets. His meticulous approach to lighting and his proficiency in grip techniques have made him an indispensable asset to countless productions. At Director’s Cut Academy, Leo provides hands-on training in lighting equipment, rigging, and safety protocols, preparing students for a career in film and television lighting.

Leo's classes cover everything from basic lighting principles to advanced techniques, ensuring students understand how to create the perfect atmosphere for each scene. His focus on safety and efficiency makes him a highly respected instructor among aspiring filmmakers.