Ruben Mazzoleni
Director / Writer / Producer
Ruben Mazzoleni is an award-winning Italian filmmaker whose work spans independent and studio productions across the U.S. and Europe. With a keen eye for storytelling and a deep understanding of cinematic language, he has established himself as a director and producer capable of crafting powerful, character-driven narratives.
Born in Italy, Mazzoleni developed an early passion for cinema and began working in the industry at just 19 while pursuing his BFA in Cinema Studies at the University of Turin. During this time, he had the opportunity to refine his skills by working alongside acclaimed Italian filmmakers such as Gianluca Maria Tavarelli, Dario Argento, and Paolo Sorrentino. These formative experiences allowed him to develop a strong artistic sensibility, blending the stylistic elegance of European cinema with a bold, modern approach to storytelling.
At 25, he moved to the U.S. to further hone his craft, earning an MFA in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, a move that provided him with an international perspective and access to a dynamic, fast-paced film industry.
A prolific short film director, Mazzoleni has created several award-winning short films that have been recognized in film festivals worldwide. His ability to craft compelling, tightly constructed narratives within a short format has made him a sought-after director in the independent film circuit. His work in this medium has allowed him to experiment with themes of identity, redemption, and human resilience, establishing his signature style and solidifying his reputation as a filmmaker with a strong emotional core.
His critically acclaimed feature directorial debut, Sheer, is a gripping urban drama that showcases Mazzoleni’s ability to blend raw realism with emotional depth. The film was distributed across the Americas and Europe, receiving praise for its compelling performances and gritty, atmospheric storytelling. His skillful direction brought a sense of authenticity to the film, setting the stage for a career marked by bold creative choices.
Beyond directing, Mazzoleni has been involved in countless productions, from indie gems to large-scale studio projects, proving his versatility and adaptability in a constantly evolving industry. His collaborations have brought him alongside some of Hollywood’s most legendary actors, including Morgan Freeman (The Minute You Wake Up Dead) and Al Pacino (The Ritual), reinforcing his reputation as a filmmaker who can work at the highest levels of the industry.
With a career that seamlessly merges European cinematic sensibility with the dynamic energy of American filmmaking, Mazzoleni continues to push creative boundaries. Whether working on feature films, short films, or high-profile productions, he brings a distinct visual style and an unwavering commitment to storytelling. As he continues to evolve as a filmmaker, his work remains a testament to the power of cinema as both an art form and a means of profound human connection.