Peter Ellinas
Co-Founder
Peter Ellinas is a Cypriot- American filmmaker born and raised in Limassol, Cyprus. From a young age, Peter was always interested in films. He won a special jury prize at the Austrian Youth Film Festival for his film 'A Vicious Cycle'. His next two films, 'What About Charlie' and 'Guns of the Valley' were Official Selections at the Echo Park Youth Film Festival.
Peter was also a Program Coordinator and Associate Director at Rising Star Youth Theatre in Limassol, Cyprus. He has directed over thirteen shows. Peter attended Temple University in Philadelphia where he majored in Communications with an emphasis in film and a minor in theatre.
He then attended Pepperdine University where he obtained an MFA in Cinematic Media Production. During his time at Pepperdine University, Peter directed four films. 'Hickory' and 'Into The Down' were accepted into the London Greek Film Festival, While his film 'Hawk' received eleven film festival selections and won 'Best Short Film- Editing' at the Culver City Film Festival in 2017.
Most recently his film 'King of the Blue Ridge', will have it world premiere at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood as part of the Golden State Film Festival. Peter has edited a number of short films and projects. He has over five years of experience and has an award for editing.
Peter is an avid sports fan, a major movie buff, and an aviation enthusiast.
James Marios Ellinas
Co-Founder
Born and raised on the island of Cyprus, James Marios Ellinas first developed a passion for acting, and thereafter began writing and directing stage plays. After performing in productions throughout Cyprus, James moved to New York to complete a BA theater performance degree at Fordham University, and ultimately relocated to California to earn his MFA in screenwriting at Chapman University. As an avid film viewer, James grew up watching coming-of-age classics like Back to the Future, Dead Poets Society, and Stand By Me. To this day, James can still passionately discuss why he believes Stand By Me remains one of the most touching films ever made.
Just before moving to New York, James took on the role of Charlie Gordon in a production of Flowers For Algernon, which ultimately proved to be a pivotal experience in his early creative endeavors. The production convinced him to fully pursue his artistic passions, embarking on a career of writing and filmmaking.
As a writer-director, James anchors his stories with layered characters in distinct worlds, placing them within often-times twisted scenarios. With every story he creates, James begins by developing his most crucial characters, ultimately allowing their voices to guide him into the overall world and premise of each film. James is most compelled by creating challenging and occasionally bizarre projects, embedded with deep character development, leaving his audience with lingering questions and thoughts long past the ending credits.