Directors

"Back to Bridgewood"

Kelsey grew up acting professionally in Hollywood, signing with her first agent at the age of 7. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre Arts from Vanguard University, and pursued a Broadway, TV and Film career in New York upon graduating, working on shows like PAN AM (ABC) and ROYAL PAINS (USA). Her work eventually brought her back to Hollywood where she trained in improv at The Groundlings, UCB, Second City and iO West.  She worked on projects like LIFE PARTNERS (Tribeca & Sundance Film Festival), BLACK NOVEMBER (Vivica Fox), BAD TEACHER (CBS) and THE VERONICA MARS MOVIE. In 2020 she Co-Founded “thisishardtoread” productions and is an award-winning producer, writer, and actor on the award-winning feature comedy, RE-OPENING. Kelsey directed the feature comedy “Back to Bridgewood” now streaming, and is slated to also Direct her next Feature Film, “Almost Thirty” this year. She is now based in Nashville where she and her husband Chris Guerra, founded the new Improv and Sketch Comedy School “Oddity Improv” and the online platform, Christian Creatives Collective, where they give back to up and coming creatives who love Jesus.

"Faith In The Silence"

Matthew Cichella, the man of many talents, known as the "Renaissance Man of Rockford." He's not just any filmmaker; he's like if Spielberg decided to make movies about faith, forgiveness, and probably a bit of existential dread, but with a dash of Midwestern charm. Matthew Cichella is the CEO and owner of Never Submit Entertainment. He's also a internationally recognized director, producer, and screenwriter, which basically means he's the puppet master behind some of the most intriguing faith-based films you might not have heard of... yet. Matthew's films often dive into the deep end of faith, exploring themes like redemption, struggle, and spiritual awakening. His work includes titles like "God's Not Here" and "God's Not Here II: Trials & Tribulations," which aren't just movies but spiritual journeys on celluloid. Matthew Cichella isn't just making movies; he's crafting cinematic experiences that delve into the human condition, albeit with a faith-based twist. Imagine if "The Shawshank Redemption" had more scenes about redemption and less about prison breaks, and you're getting close to his vibe. Matthew Cichella seems to attract awards like a magnet attracts... well, other magnets. His films aren't just watched; they're celebrated, which in the world of cinema, is like saying your cooking is so good, it's Michelin-starred. From directing psychological thrillers to faith-based anthologies, Matthew Cichella might just be the kind of person who, if you asked him to make a documentary on quantum physics, would somehow weave in a narrative about faith, love, and redemption. Because why stick to one genre when you can master them all? So, in summary, Matthew Cichella is your go-to guy if you're looking for films that make you ponder life's big questions, all while being entertained by stories of love, hope, and probably a few plot twists that would make M. Night Shyamalan say, "Hey, that's a good one!"

"Wild Faith Christmas"

Shane Hagedorn is an American filmmaker, actor, and storyteller known for bringing deeply human, often redemptive characters to life on screen. Born and raised in Michigan, Hagedorn carved a path through the independent film scene as a multi-hyphenate force-writing, directing, and producing a slate of critically recognized faith-based and frontier dramas that explore legacy, identity, and justice in forgotten corners of American history.Hagedorn made his directorial debut with Ashes of Eden (2014), a gritty family drama that blended cinematic realism with spiritual consequence. He went on to collaborate with Collective Development Inc., starring in Wild Faith (2018), a genre-bending Western that broke barriers with its inclusive cast and heartfelt themes of community, courage, and healing. The film inspired a growing universe of stories, including the upcoming sequel, Wild Faith Christmas- in which Shane starred and directed.As an actor, Hagedorn brings a natural, grounded intensity to his performances, often portraying conflicted men at the crossroads of faith and duty. He continues to create character-driven films with an emphasis on moral tension and historical resonance-projects that reflect both his Midwestern roots and his deep belief in storytelling as a force for cultural restoration.

"Sarah's Oil"

CYRUS NOWRASTEH is an American director, screenwriter, and producer, who has worked in both film and TV. Cyrus is best known as director and co-writer with his wife, Betsy Giffen Nowrasteh, of the highly regarded award-winning independent film, The Stoning of Soraya M. His most recent film is the well-received Amazon/MGM movie, Sarah's Oil, which has won many awards and garnered much public attention. Upcoming, in late 2026, his next effort, Dark Horse, will be released, a political thriller starring Jim Caviezel.

"Learning You"

Tyler Sansom is a pastor, filmmaker, and storyteller dedicated to helping people encounter Jesus in real and meaningful ways. He serves as the Lead Pastor of First Capital Christian Church and is the visionary behind the Church Anywhere movement, a growing network of communities focused on living out faith beyond traditional church walls.As the founder of First Capital Films, Tyler has written, directed, and produced multiple faith-based films, including I Can, Learning You, and the upcoming Broadcast. His work blends cinematic storytelling with authentic spiritual themes, aiming to reach both believers and those exploring faith.Tyler is also an author, with his upcoming book Against The Current releasing in 2026, challenging readers to follow Jesus in a culture that often moves in the opposite direction. Through preaching, filmmaking, and leadership, he is passionate about equipping people to live with purpose, courage, and a deep connection to Christ.

"Gone Season 3"

Dave Siriano, Jr. is an award-winning film director, producer, and creative leader who currently serves as President and CEO of EchoTV Studios. Based in Florida, Dave has built a reputation for visionary storytelling, strong leadership, and a passion for meaningful filmmaking. His work behind the camera has earned recognition for its creativity, authenticity, and ability to connect with audiences.     Deeply rooted in the Christian faith, Dave approaches both his professional and personal life with a commitment to integrity, purpose, and service. His faith plays a central role in his storytelling and leadership style, shaping projects that reflect hope, perseverance, and strong moral values.     Outside of his professional accomplishments, Dave is a devoted husband, father, and proud grandfather. Family remains at the center of his life, and he values the time spent supporting and encouraging the next generation.    Through his leadership as President and CEO and his work as an award-winning director, Dave Siriano, Jr. continues to inspire others through film, faith, and a dedication to excellence.

"A Very Southern Church"

Simon Wesely was born 2001 in Germany as the second son of pastors.In 2020, during COVID, he produced his first feature film, "2025," together with his brother Joshua Wesely. This film, Science fiction about persecution of Christians, was viewed over 20 million times in the US. This was followed in 2023 by the Christian Christmas film "A Law for Christmas," which has now also been viewed over 15 million times on various platforms. In 2024, he produced a documentary, "Druglord's Redemption," also a feature film. In the summer of 2025, he was the director of the feature film "A Very Southern Church." As a Christian independent filmmaker, Simon Wesely's greatest goal, together with his brother Joshua Wesely, is to bring the good news to the world in the most creative way possible.