JAN HENDRIK VERSTRATENWRITER-DIRECTOR

“My passion for independent film started in New York when I studied at the New School. I loved the 16 mm art of filmmaking and was lucky enough to sell my first short to the PBS channel in New York, Channel Thirteen. After being involved in several creative businesses around the world, I returned to film and writing when I moved to London. It was in London I initially focused on screenwriting. I’ve won numerous awards and learned to respect the craft and the challenge of telling a good story. With the award-winning short I Am Henry I returned to film. It picked up 13 awards at festivals worldwide. Patrick Smith, a Film Critic at The Telegraph called it “A terrific short”. Thessalus & Medea is my second short film, which has won more than 20 awards to date. During the pandemic I completed my first novel I Am Henry based on the film and am looking to publish the book in 2022.”

MASSIMO BARBATOARTISTIC DIRECTOR

“My collaboration with Jan Hendrik opens up lots of creative possibilities and adds an exciting dimension to the work that we do. As an artistic director and producer, I help to develop concepts for scripts and books, and ensure that every story we put out there is of the highest quality. I have co-authored I Am Henry with Jan. Besides this, I’ve written extensively and published a book about the cultural impact of artificial intelligence. I’m also the co-founder of the New Renaissance Film Festival (NRFF), which for the past seven years has provided a supportive platform for inspiring artists and storytellers from around the world. The London METRO has described NRFF as one of the UK’s best film festivals.”