Our Story
Directing Mastery Academy was founded in 2018 by renowned film director, Alistair Humphrey, and experienced cinematographer, Vivian Holloway, with a shared vision: to provide aspiring filmmakers with a comprehensive, hands-on education in the art and craft of film directing. Recognizing a gap in traditional film education, they sought to create an institution that bridges the divide between theory and practice, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and industry connections necessary to succeed in the competitive world of filmmaking.
From humble beginnings in a small studio in downtown Los Angeles, Directing Mastery Academy has grown into a leading film education center, attracting students from around the globe. Our initial focus was on offering intensive workshops and masterclasses taught by industry professionals. As demand grew, we expanded our curriculum to include comprehensive certificate programs and online courses, making our education accessible to a wider audience.
Over the years, we have proudly witnessed our graduates go on to achieve remarkable success in the film industry, directing award-winning short films, securing positions on major film productions, and launching their own independent filmmaking careers. Their achievements serve as a testament to the effectiveness of our teaching methods and the dedication of our faculty.
Today, Directing Mastery Academy remains committed to its founding principles: providing exceptional film education, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment, and empowering students to realize their cinematic visions. We continue to innovate and adapt our curriculum to reflect the evolving landscape of the film industry, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Our Mission
At Directing Mastery Academy, our mission is to empower aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to excel as film directors. We are dedicated to providing a comprehensive and practical education that fosters creativity, cultivates technical expertise, and instills a deep understanding of the art and craft of filmmaking. We strive to create a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can explore their unique voices, develop their artistic visions, and build lasting connections within the film industry.
We are committed to:
- Providing high-quality instruction from experienced industry professionals.
- Offering a curriculum that is both rigorous and relevant to the demands of the film industry.
- Creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can thrive.
- Empowering students to develop their unique artistic voices and visions.
- Facilitating industry connections and networking opportunities.
- Promoting diversity and inclusion within the film industry.
Meet Our Team
Alistair Humphrey
Founder & Director
Alistair Humphrey is an award-winning film director with over 20 years of experience in the industry. He has directed numerous feature films, documentaries, and television shows, earning critical acclaim for his storytelling and visual style. Alistair is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring filmmakers and is committed to providing students with the best possible film education.
Vivian Holloway
Co-Founder & Head of Cinematography
Vivian Holloway is an experienced cinematographer with a passion for visual storytelling. She has worked on a wide range of film projects, from independent films to large-scale studio productions. Vivian's expertise lies in creating stunning visuals that enhance the narrative and evoke emotion. She is dedicated to teaching students the technical and artistic aspects of cinematography and helping them develop their own unique visual style.
Sergei Volkov
Lead Instructor - Directing Actors
Sergei Volkov is a renowned acting coach with over 15 years of experience working with actors in film, television, and theater. He has a proven track record of helping actors deliver powerful and authentic performances. Sergei's approach to directing actors is based on empathy, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the human condition. He is passionate about helping students develop their skills in working with actors and creating compelling characters.
Our Facilities
Directing Mastery Academy is located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Our facilities are designed to provide students with a professional and inspiring learning environment. We offer a range of resources to support students in their filmmaking endeavors, including:
- Fully equipped film studio with professional lighting and sound equipment.
- Advanced cinematography equipment, including cameras, lenses, and grip equipment.
- Sound recording and mixing facilities.
- Editing suites with industry-standard software.
- Rehearsal spaces for working with actors.
- Library with a vast collection of books, scripts, and films.
- Collaborative workspaces for students to collaborate on projects.
- High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the facility.