Michael Schmidt began his career in film after recognizing his love of telling stories.
Since then, he has worked in virtually every aspect of the business, contributing to the release of over 50 feature films and three Oscar campaigns for Kino International of New York. His experience as a marketing director, film editor, copywriter, festival programmer and acquisition executive have all informed his work as a director.
Michael’s work can be described as simple moments transformed. Whether it be to create humour or drama, he enjoys juxtaposing the everyday with the absurd in ways that delight his audience and present his stories in a new light. Always the actor’s director, Michael believes performance and conflict are the keys to strong storytelling.
His award-winning films have screened internationally, including the Film Society of Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Banff World Television Festival, where his writing and directing earned a Rockie Award for Best Pilot for American Wife, starring Kristin Booth and Patrick McKenna. He directed the short film Free Door for bravoFACT. He also produced the music video for The Elwins single “Forgetful Assistance.”