Director Renée Mao has joined Tool of North America for U.S. representation spanning commercials and branded content.
Having lived in Australia, China and the U.S., Mao is a writer and director who brings a unique global perspective and visual power to her narrative driven stories. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts for film and TV production, Mao has directed emotional anthem spots for Woman’s Hospital of Texas, March of Dimes, Meals on Wheels, and Make-A-Wish.
Prior to coming aboard the Tool roster, Mao was repped by Greenpoint Pictures.
Mao’s short films have been featured in the Huffington Post, The Hammer Museum, and earned Vimeo Staff Pick distinction. Mao’s award-winning LGBTQ+ documentary, The Making of Panthera, is a love letter for creativity, freedom, and personal identity. The film has been featured in the Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival and is a Webby Award honoree.
“As a director who is passionate about pushing creative boundaries and developing strong, emotional impact with my work," said Mao, “I’m excited to have this opportunity to work with a company like Tool that will support the groundbreaking work I want to deliver.”
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More