Dictionary Films, the integrated production arm of Cutters Studios, is very proud to announce that Indian-American director Zoe Malhotra has signed with the company for representation in the U.S. Midwest. The announcement was made by Dictionary’s Managing Director Brian Smego.
“Zoe and I first connected through the Shiny Awards, which is a phenomenal launching pad for fresh, under-represented talent,” Smego began. “After numerous conversations, I became thoroughly impressed with her knowledge of filmmaking and her overall personality. Her energy is infectious, and in addition to being a very talented director, it’s clear that she has a passion for making great work that matters and makes an impact.”
Smego continued, “As Dictionary Films looks to usher in a new era of innovation and creativity, Zoe’s unique skill set and her sophisticated body of work align perfectly with our goals. Her arrival demonstrates our commitment to helping develop new and diverse talent, and we are excited to tell new stories from her fresh perspective.”
Specializing in human-driven storytelling, Malhotra has already earned both Emmy and Webby nominations for her work. She has directed for global brands such as Coachella, Maison Margiela, eBay, Doordash, Walmart, and more, and produced long-form projects like Netflix’s “CIVIL” and Showtime’s “The Show.” Deeply rooted in authenticity, diversity, and optimism, her work consistently evokes strong emotional connections. With her distinct visual style of beautiful naturalism, viewers can expect work that feels like sunshine.
“From our very first conversations, I could tell the Dictionary team not only understood the style and feel of the authentic, visually dreamy work I thrive in, but they were also ready to run with it and help me push it further,” Malhotra confided. “There are so many amazing projects in the U.S. Midwest that tap into the spaces I love to work in, especially around human-driven stories. Dictionary Films not only recognizes that but has harnessed it by championing beautiful, moving work. The synergy feels right – we all want to create work that feels real and looks stunning. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we make together!”
Learn more about the directors and capabilities of Dictionary Films by visiting https://dictionaryfilms.com.
About Dictionary Films
The integrated production arm of Cutters Studios, Dictionary Films represents prestigious and multifaceted directors across the country and internationally. Together with its partner companies Another Country, Cutters, and Flavor, Dictionary represents unlimited full-service creative capabilities. Since launching in 2008, the company’s clients have included both established and emerging brands, as well as agencies of all types and sizes. Its ever-expanding portfolio includes innovative projects for Allstate, Amazon, Coca-Cola, Ford, Kellogg’s, Kraft, McDonald’s, Navistar, and WeatherTech, among many others. To learn more please visit https://dictionaryfilms.com.
A Bold Depiction of The Immigrant Struggle and The Cost of The American Dream
Carmona Pictures, a New York-based production company, proudly announces that Chisel, the short film written and directed by Julissa Scopino, has been selected as an official entry at the 2024 Chelsea Film Festival. The film, which powerfully explores the immigrant experience, will screen at the prestigious event, held from October 16-20 at Regal Theaters Union Square in New York City. In Chisel, a jobless teenage immigrant desperately seeks employment, only to be met with cold indifference from fellow laborers on a street corner who are also desperately looking for work. Isolated and longing to fit in, he faces a moral crossroads: follow the right path or get involved in a risky opportunity that promises quick success. The film offers a raw and urgent portrayal of the immigrant struggle, addressing labor exploitation, inequality, and the harsh realities of chasing the American dream. The film's main character is portrayed by actor Nico Bustamante (Riverdale, Gotti, and Bel Canto), who brings an emotional depth and authenticity to the role, capturing the internal struggle and desperation of his character. Chisel draws its power from Scopino’s sharp directorial vision and her dedication to illuminating this untold story of the Latino labor community. Influenced by cinematic giants like Vittorio De Sica (The Bicycle Thief) and Martin Scorsese (Gangs of New York), Scopino captures the emotional and physical toll of working-class life in an unforgiving system. "This film resonates profoundly with me as I witness the pervasive struggles in our New York City streets, where individuals grapple with challenges ranging from theft and violence to homelessness and unemployment," states Scopino. "The impact of inflation has... Read More