Meet Our Expert Instructors
Directing Mastery Academy boasts a faculty of award-winning directors and seasoned industry professionals dedicated to nurturing the next generation of directorial talent. Our instructors bring a wealth of experience from film, television, and theatre, providing students with unparalleled mentorship and practical guidance. Learn more about the individuals shaping the future of directing.
Alistair Finch
Founder & Lead Instructor
Alistair Finch is the founder and lead instructor of Directing Mastery Academy. With over 25 years of experience in the film industry, Alistair has directed numerous critically acclaimed films and television series. His expertise lies in narrative storytelling, actor direction, and visual composition. Alistair's films have garnered awards at Sundance, Cannes, and the Academy Awards. He is dedicated to providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the competitive world of directing.
Alistair holds an MFA in Film Directing from UCLA and is a member of the Directors Guild of America. His commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in directing has made Directing Mastery Academy a leading institution for aspiring filmmakers.
Seraphina Volkov
Television Directing Specialist
Seraphina Volkov is a renowned television director with a diverse portfolio spanning multiple genres, including drama, comedy, and science fiction. Her work has been featured on major networks such as HBO, Netflix, and AMC. Seraphina is known for her innovative visual style, her ability to create compelling characters, and her collaborative approach to directing. Her TV series, "Echo Chamber," won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series.
At Directing Mastery Academy, Seraphina specializes in television directing workshops, teaching students the intricacies of episodic storytelling, working with showrunners, and managing large-scale productions. She provides invaluable insights into the television industry and prepares students for the challenges and rewards of directing for the small screen.
Benjamin Castillo
Theatre Directing Expert
Benjamin Castillo is a highly acclaimed theatre director with a passion for bringing classic and contemporary plays to life. He has directed productions at leading regional theatres across the United States, including the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles and the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. Benjamin is known for his innovative staging, his insightful interpretations of dramatic texts, and his ability to elicit powerful performances from actors. He won the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play for his production of "The Glass Menagerie."
At Directing Mastery Academy, Benjamin leads theatre directing masterclasses, focusing on play selection, rehearsal techniques, actor direction, and design collaboration. He helps students develop their artistic vision and hone their skills as stage directors. Benjamin's mentorship has guided countless aspiring theatre artists toward successful careers in the performing arts.
Eleanor Vance
Cinematography & Visual Storytelling
Eleanor Vance is an award-winning cinematographer and visual storyteller with over 15 years of experience in both film and television. Her work is characterized by its evocative imagery, dynamic compositions, and seamless integration with narrative. Eleanor has collaborated with some of the industry's most respected directors, contributing her visual artistry to numerous critically acclaimed projects. She has received the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Award for her work on the independent film "The Silent Echo."
At Directing Mastery Academy, Eleanor teaches courses on cinematography, visual storytelling, and pre-production planning. She equips students with the knowledge and skills to effectively communicate their vision through the camera, covering topics such as lighting, composition, camera movement, and visual effects. Eleanor's expertise helps directors create visually stunning and emotionally resonant films.
Samuel Reyes
Screenwriting & Script Analysis
Samuel Reyes is a distinguished screenwriter and script consultant, with a wealth of experience in both feature films and television. He has written scripts for major studios and networks, earning accolades for his engaging characters, compelling plots, and sharp dialogue. Samuel is also a sought-after script doctor, helping filmmakers refine their screenplays and bring their stories to life. His film "City of Shadows" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
At Directing Mastery Academy, Samuel teaches screenwriting and script analysis courses, emphasizing the importance of a strong narrative foundation for successful directing. He guides students through the process of script development, character creation, and scene construction, teaching them how to identify and resolve script issues. Samuel empowers directors to work effectively with writers and shape their stories into compelling cinematic experiences.
Isabella Moretti
Actor Direction & Performance
Isabella Moretti is a renowned acting coach and performance director, with a career spanning both film and theatre. She has worked with some of the most talented actors in the industry, helping them develop their craft and deliver unforgettable performances. Isabella is known for her intuitive approach to actor direction, her ability to create a supportive and collaborative environment, and her deep understanding of the actor's process. She received the Drama Desk Award for her contributions to the Broadway production of "A Streetcar Named Desire."
At Directing Mastery Academy, Isabella teaches courses on actor direction and performance, equipping directors with the skills to effectively communicate with actors, elicit authentic performances, and create compelling character portrayals. She covers topics such as auditioning, rehearsal techniques, on-set dynamics, and performance feedback. Isabella helps directors build strong relationships with actors and bring out the best in their performances.