About Directing Mastery Academy

Our History

Directing Mastery Academy was founded in 2005 by Ava Thorne, an award-winning director with over two decades of experience in the film industry. Frustrated by the lack of practical, industry-focused training available to aspiring filmmakers, Ava envisioned an academy that would provide students with the knowledge, skills, and connections they needed to succeed in the competitive world of Hollywood. Starting with a small group of students and a handful of dedicated instructors, the academy quickly gained a reputation for its rigorous curriculum, personalized mentorship, and commitment to student success.

Over the years, Directing Mastery Academy has grown into a leading institution for filmmaking education, attracting students from around the world. We have expanded our course offerings to include comprehensive programs in directing, cinematography, screenwriting, and post-production, and we have assembled a team of renowned instructors who are passionate about sharing their expertise with the next generation of filmmakers. Our alumni have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the film industry, working on blockbuster hits, critically acclaimed independent films, and innovative television projects. As we look to the future, we remain committed to our founding mission of empowering aspiring filmmakers and shaping the future of cinematic storytelling.

In 2018, Directing Mastery Academy established a formal partnership with Stellar Pictures, a leading independent film production company based in Los Angeles. This partnership provides students with invaluable opportunities for hands-on experience, including internships, shadowing programs, and collaborative projects. Students have the chance to work alongside industry professionals on real film sets, gaining practical skills and building their professional networks. This unique partnership has further solidified Directing Mastery Academy's position as a premier institution for filmmaking education, providing students with a direct pathway to a successful career in the film industry.

Our Values

At Directing Mastery Academy, we are guided by a set of core values that shape our approach to education, community, and the art of filmmaking:

1. Excellence: We are committed to providing the highest quality education and mentorship, empowering our students to achieve their full potential as filmmakers.
2. Innovation: We embrace new technologies, creative approaches, and storytelling techniques, fostering a culture of innovation and experimentation.
3. Collaboration: We believe in the power of collaboration and teamwork, encouraging our students to work together, share ideas, and support each other's creative endeavors.
4. Integrity: We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our dealings, fostering a culture of honesty, transparency, and respect.
5. Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive learning environment where students from all backgrounds feel welcome, valued, and empowered.
6. Passion: We are passionate about filmmaking and dedicated to inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
7. Practicality: We ground our teaching in real-world applications and industry best practices, preparing our students for the challenges and opportunities of a career in film.

These values serve as our compass, guiding us as we strive to create a transformative learning experience for our students and contribute to the vibrant and ever-evolving world of cinema. We believe that by upholding these values, we can empower the next generation of filmmakers to create meaningful and impactful stories that resonate with audiences around the world.