Ethan Blake

Founder & Lead Instructor

Ethan Blake, the visionary founder of Directing Mastery Academy, brings over two decades of experience in the film industry to the classroom. He's directed multiple award-winning independent films and has worked as a consultant on major Hollywood productions. Ethan's passion for storytelling and his commitment to nurturing emerging talent make him an invaluable asset to our academy.

Experience Highlights:

• Directed "Echoes of Yesterday," winner of the Sundance Film Festival's Grand Jury Prize.
• Consulted on the visual effects for "Galactic Odyssey," a blockbuster sci-fi film.
• Guest lecturer at the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts.

Teaching Philosophy:

“I believe that every director has a unique voice waiting to be discovered. My role as an instructor is to provide the tools and guidance necessary for students to develop their own style and confidently bring their visions to life. I focus on fostering a collaborative environment where students can experiment, take risks, and learn from both their successes and failures.”

Olivia Thorne

Producer & Instructor

Olivia Thorne is an acclaimed producer with a keen eye for talent and a proven track record of bringing compelling stories to the screen. Her expertise in film financing, production management, and distribution makes her an essential resource for aspiring directors. Olivia's insights into the business side of filmmaking are invaluable to our students.

Experience Highlights:

• Produced "The Silent Symphony," nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture.
• Secured funding for over a dozen independent films through various grant programs.
• Guest speaker at the Cannes Film Festival's Producers Workshop.

Teaching Philosophy:

“Directing is an art, but filmmaking is a business. I strive to equip students with the practical knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complex world of film production. From budgeting and scheduling to marketing and distribution, I cover all aspects of the filmmaking process to ensure that our graduates are well-prepared to launch their careers.”

Marcus Cole

Cinematography Instructor

Marcus Cole is a renowned cinematographer with an impressive portfolio spanning feature films, television series, and commercials. His expertise in lighting, camera operation, and visual storytelling makes him an exceptional instructor. Marcus teaches students how to craft visually compelling narratives and create a distinctive cinematic style.

Experience Highlights:

• Director of Photography for "Neon Dreams," a critically acclaimed neo-noir film.
• Received the American Society of Cinematographers Award for Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography.
• Conducted cinematography workshops at the International Film School of Paris.

Teaching Philosophy:

“Cinematography is more than just capturing images; it's about creating emotions and enhancing the story. I encourage students to experiment with different lighting techniques, camera angles, and compositions to develop their own visual language. My goal is to empower them to become true visual storytellers.”

Isabelle Rossi

Acting & Directing Instructor

Isabelle Rossi is a celebrated actress and director with a unique understanding of the actor-director relationship. Her experience on both sides of the camera allows her to provide invaluable insights into effective communication, collaboration, and performance coaching. Isabelle helps students create a positive and productive on-set environment.

Experience Highlights:

• Starred in "City of Angels," a Golden Globe-winning television series.
• Directed "Hidden Truths," an award-winning short film exploring social issues.
• Led acting workshops at the Actors Studio in New York City.

Teaching Philosophy:

“The actor-director relationship is the heart of filmmaking. I teach students how to communicate effectively with actors, create a comfortable and collaborative atmosphere, and elicit authentic and compelling performances. By understanding the actor's perspective, directors can bring out the best in their cast and elevate their films to new heights.”