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FORCE
MAJEURE

Championing the rich history and hidden gems of Europe's artistic landscape, our company meticulously curates a vibrant roster of the most pioneering creative talent from across the European continent, forging fresh, engaging, innovative, and culturally rich narratives.

āˆ “Force Majeure”, derived from French, translates to “superior force” – and that’s exactly what it represents in the creative world.

SCROLL TO EXPLORE

ABOUT

European
Allure

Force Majeure is an award-winning creative studio and production company founded in 2011 that’s showcasing a new wave of talent from “New Europe”.

Learn more
MEET THE TEAM
Dario Kirola
Brian Tolleson
Milan Maksimovic
Hrisheek Panchmatia
Tatiana Djordjevic
DIRECTORS

Third
Culture
Kids

Creatives are the heart and soul of Force Majeure, bringing their unique points of view and experiences to the forefront of their creative craft.

Leticia Belliccini
leticia
Francesca Mazzoleni
francy
Stevan Lee Mraovitch
mraovitch
Emma Benestan
Masha Zhemchuzhina
Adam Morse
emma
masha
adam
Lucas Parra
lucas
Ellen Rodnianski
ellen
Daniela Amavia
amavia
Barbara Ochoa
Vittoria Rizzardi PeƱalosa
barbara
vittoria
WHAT WE DO

01

02

03

Film & TV

Commercials

Music Videos

04

05

06

Digital & AR/VR

Branding & Strategy

Experiental & Travel

CREATIVE star-of-life TRAVEL star-of-life
CREATIVE star-of-life TRAVEL star-of-life
CREATIVE star-of-life TRAVEL star-of-life
CREATIVE star-of-life TRAVEL star-of-life

OUR CLIENTS

LOCATIONS

New
Europe

RIVIERA

Imagine yourself sipping an espresso, dressed in Italian fashion that has graced the runways of Milan and Paris just weeks before. You emulate the sprezzatura of the locals … you have poise, grace and style – without trying too hard.

Ā 

ALPINE
The engine of your classic European car hums happily, as it leads you along sharp hairpin curves towards the Alpine bliss of MĆ©gĆØve, Chamonix, Gstaad or St Moritz. These paths were once tread by the armies of legendary commanders Napoleon and Suvorov. The Swiss watch on your wrist ticks excitedly as it feels itself at home among the dramatic snow capped peaks and valleys that gave the world horological excellence.
NORDIC

As you lift your gaze to the sky, you are greeted by a strange phenomenon that transports you to a mystical fantasy realm. Youā€™re looking at the mysterious Northern Lights. Surrounded by Norwegian fjords, Icelandic volcanoes, Swedish archipelagos, Finnish lakes and Danish beaches – you sense that this is the place where fairytales and reality become one.

ADRIATIC

The gentle waves awake you as the renowned glistening white walls of Dubrovnik come into view. You pick up the faint scents of olive oil, salt and truffles – while listening to the soothing dalmatian chansons of Oliver Dragojevic and Teresa Kesovija coming through the speakers. Indeed, you are in the Adriatic Region – a magical area where history and the present blend into perfect harmony.

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Dario Kirola
Founder at Force Majeure
Dario Kirola is a multicultural and multilingual media entrepreneur, producer, and expert in branding and global strategy. As the true definition of a ā€œthird culture kid,ā€ he is fluent in 5 languages and has lived in 7 countries, currently dividing his time between the US and Europe.
During his work for McKinsey & Co, he was part of a small team that developed the worldā€™s most comprehensive and advanced trends database, serving various prestigious global clients. In 2011, he founded Force Majeure, an international production and consulting company that develops, produces, and finances film, scripted, and unscripted TV. As of 2023, Force Majeure represents the most talented young European directors on the US market. The company has had a number of prominent clients, including a long-term relationship with The Coca-Cola Company. Most recently, Kirola & Force Majeure have been engaged in the complex endeavor of bringing the iconic British multinational coffee chain, Costa Coffee, to the US. This included helping to open the very first retail locations on US soil and social media management for Costa Coffee USA.
Kirola maintains a close relationship with Monaco, where he launched his entertainment career by producing the first ever English-language unscripted series based in the Principality, which was also the first ever live-streamed series on Facebook. Being globally-minded, Dario specializes in sourcing stories and intellectual property with global potential from niche local markets. Kirola's projects have won numerous international awards and accolades, and have equally featured prestige and emerging talent.
Dario is an avid athlete, having played tennis at a high level and holding black belts in Shotokan and Shidokan karate. He holds a BBA from Emory University and an MBA from INSEAD.
Dario Kirola
Founder at Force Majeure
Dario Kirola is a multicultural and multilingual media entrepreneur, producer, and expert in branding and global strategy. As the true definition of a ā€œthird culture kid,ā€ he is fluent in 5 languages and has lived in 7 countries, currently dividing his time between the US and Europe.
During his work for McKinsey & Co, he was part of a small team that developed the worldā€™s most comprehensive and advanced trends database, serving various prestigious global clients. In 2011, he founded Force Majeure, an international production and consulting company that develops, produces, and finances film, scripted, and unscripted TV. As of 2023, Force Majeure represents the most talented young European directors on the US market. The company has had a number of prominent clients, including a long-term relationship with The Coca-Cola Company. Most recently, Kirola & Force Majeure have been engaged in the complex endeavor of bringing the iconic British multinational coffee chain, Costa Coffee, to the US. This included helping to open the very first retail locations on US soil and social media management for Costa Coffee USA.
Kirola maintains a close relationship with Monaco, where he launched his entertainment career by producing the first ever English-language unscripted series based in the Principality, which was also the first ever live-streamed series on Facebook. Being globally-minded, Dario specializes in sourcing stories and intellectual property with global potential from niche local markets. Kirola's projects have won numerous international awards and accolades, and have equally featured prestige and emerging talent.
Dario is an avid athlete, having played tennis at a high level and holding black belts in Shotokan and Shidokan karate. He holds a BBA from Emory University and an MBA from INSEAD.
Leticia Belliccini
Director at Force Majeure
Leticia Belliccini is an Italian actress, screenwriter, and director. She began taking acting classes at the Conservatoire of the 1st arrondissement and then at the Cours Florent under the direction of Julien Koseleck. She also took acting workshops with Jordan Beswick and Jack Waltzer.
She appeared in several films such as ā€˜Banlieue 13 Ultimatumā€™ by Patrick Alexandrin, ā€˜Heartbreakerā€™ by Pascal Chaumeil, ā€˜Qā€™ by Laurent Bouhnik, ā€˜There's Still Hamā€™ by Anne Depetrini, and ā€˜Billieā€™ by Pascal Alex Vincent. She also appeared in several TV series including ā€˜Les Bleusā€™ (M6), the Disney series ā€˜SOS Superheroes,ā€™ and Franck CimĆØre's ā€˜Operation Portugalā€™ (2020).
In theater, she played roles in ā€˜Eva PerĆ³nā€™ by Copi, ā€˜The Firstā€™ by Israel Horowitz, and ā€˜The Loverā€™ by Pinter. In addition, she writes short stories and several screenplays.
Since 2016, she has directed the short films ā€˜Le Principe Premier,ā€™ ā€˜Spin,ā€™ ā€˜MAD,ā€™ and ā€˜HƖLTY.ā€™ She was also a second unit director on the film ā€˜Redemption Dayā€™ with Andy Garcia, Gary Dourdan, and Martin Donovan. In addition, she directs for television, including ā€˜Un si grand soleilā€™ (France 2) and ā€˜Plus belle la vieā€™ (France 3). She is currently developing her miniseries ā€˜L'oeil vif du poisson mortā€™ and her feature films ā€˜I'm not just a mistakeā€™ and ā€˜Le dernier souffle.ā€™
Leticia Belliccini
Director at Force Majeure
Leticia Belliccini is an Italian actress, screenwriter, and director. She began taking acting classes at the Conservatoire of the 1st arrondissement and then at the Cours Florent under the direction of Julien Koseleck. She also took acting workshops with Jordan Beswick and Jack Waltzer.
She appeared in several films such as ā€˜Banlieue 13 Ultimatumā€™ by Patrick Alexandrin, ā€˜Heartbreakerā€™ by Pascal Chaumeil, ā€˜Qā€™ by Laurent Bouhnik, ā€˜There's Still Hamā€™ by Anne Depetrini, and ā€˜Billieā€™ by Pascal Alex Vincent. She also appeared in several TV series including ā€˜Les Bleusā€™ (M6), the Disney series ā€˜SOS Superheroes,ā€™ and Franck CimĆØre's ā€˜Operation Portugalā€™ (2020).
In theater, she played roles in ā€˜Eva PerĆ³nā€™ by Copi, ā€˜The Firstā€™ by Israel Horowitz, and ā€˜The Loverā€™ by Pinter. In addition, she writes short stories and several screenplays.
Since 2016, she has directed the short films ā€˜Le Principe Premier,ā€™ ā€˜Spin,ā€™ ā€˜MAD,ā€™ and ā€˜HƖLTY.ā€™ She was also a second unit director on the film ā€˜Redemption Dayā€™ with Andy Garcia, Gary Dourdan, and Martin Donovan. In addition, she directs for television, including ā€˜Un si grand soleilā€™ (France 2) and ā€˜Plus belle la vieā€™ (France 3). She is currently developing her miniseries ā€˜L'oeil vif du poisson mortā€™ and her feature films ā€˜I'm not just a mistakeā€™ and ā€˜Le dernier souffle.ā€™
ā€Ž
Francesca Mazzoleni
Director at Force Majeure
Francesca Mazzoleni is an Italian director and screenwriter. She graduated from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia of Rome in 2015.
She has directed short films and documentaries that have won several awards, e.g. ā€˜Nowhere, I Know You Can Hear Me, 1989.ā€™ In 2018 she directed her first project, the coming-of-age feature film ā€˜That's Lifeā€™. Her latest film, the lyrical and political documentary ā€˜Punta Sacra,ā€™ received the Jury Award for Best Feature Film at the Visions du RĆ©el Documentary Film Festival in April 2020, the David di Donatello nomination for Best Documentary 2021, and the Silver Ribbon ā€˜Valentina Pediciniā€™ 2021.
Most recently, she directed Netflixā€™s Supersex series, loosely inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, which is set to be released this year.
Francesca Mazzoleni
Director at Force Majeure
Francesca Mazzoleni is an Italian director and screenwriter. She graduated from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia of Rome in 2015.
She has directed short films and documentaries that have won several awards, e.g. ā€˜Nowhere, I Know You Can Hear Me, 1989.ā€™ In 2018 she directed her first project, the coming-of-age feature film ā€˜That's Lifeā€™. Her latest film, the lyrical and political documentary ā€˜Punta Sacra,ā€™ received the Jury Award for Best Feature Film at the Visions du RĆ©el Documentary Film Festival in April 2020, the David di Donatello nomination for Best Documentary 2021, and the Silver Ribbon ā€˜Valentina Pediciniā€™ 2021.
Most recently, she directed Netflixā€™s Supersex series, loosely inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, which is set to be released this year.
ā€Ž
Stevan Lee Mraovitch
Director at Force Majeure
Stevan Lee Mraovitch, a New York City native of Taiwanese and Serbian heritage, is an artist known for blending cultural influences across various disciplines. Stevan studied at the French film school ESEC and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University. By embracing both European and American filmmaking traditions, he received several scholarships for directing and producing.
At the age of 22, Stevan published his first poetry collection, ā€œAnalgesia, the Scars of Love and Revolts.ā€ This work explores themes of nostalgia and brotherhood in the context of war-torn Yugoslavia and received notable attention. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he co-founded the Serbian Philanthropic Association in New York, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact on othersā€™ lives.
His directorial debut, ā€˜Holidays At All Cost,ā€™ was met with critical acclaim and various awards, such as the Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 28th Austin Film Festival. Stevanā€™s commitment to intercultural collaboration earned him the Excellence in International Cooperation Award from the Heritage Foundation of Serbia in 2015.
Stevanā€™s interest in filmmaking and storytelling has been an integral part of him since birth. As a child, he would use shadow puppets on his bedroom wall to tell Chinese folk tales to his siblings.
ā€œI was bitten by the storytelling bug.ā€
Stevan Lee Mraovitch
Director at Force Majeure
Stevan Lee Mraovitch, a New York City native of Taiwanese and Serbian heritage, is an artist known for blending cultural influences across various disciplines. Stevan studied at the French film school ESEC and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University. By embracing both European and American filmmaking traditions, he received several scholarships for directing and producing.
At the age of 22, Stevan published his first poetry collection, ā€œAnalgesia, the Scars of Love and Revolts.ā€ This work explores themes of nostalgia and brotherhood in the context of war-torn Yugoslavia and received notable attention. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he co-founded the Serbian Philanthropic Association in New York, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact on othersā€™ lives.
His directorial debut, ā€˜Holidays At All Cost,ā€™ was met with critical acclaim and various awards, such as the Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 28th Austin Film Festival. Stevanā€™s commitment to intercultural collaboration earned him the Excellence in International Cooperation Award from the Heritage Foundation of Serbia in 2015.
Stevanā€™s interest in filmmaking and storytelling has been an integral part of him since birth. As a child, he would use shadow puppets on his bedroom wall to tell Chinese folk tales to his siblings.
ā€œI was bitten by the storytelling bug.ā€
ā€Ž
Lucas Parra
Director at Force Majeure
Director and screenwriter Lucas Parra made a name for himself with his final college project, ā€˜Entreterrestres,ā€™ which premiered in the official selection of the Sitges Film Festival and has been awarded at numerous festivals such as Huesca and Camerimage.
ā€œFilmmaking is not just a hobby or a profession for me; it is a way of life. Every aspect of my life revolves around cinema, and I find joy and fulfillment in bringing stories to life on the big screen.ā€
Inspired by Hollywood's 70s style, his films involve meticulous planning, absurd humor, and the use of varied genres such as horror, science fiction, adventure, action and comedy. A common thread in all of his works is his fascination with other eras, both past and future, having filmed 19th century battles and futuristic space dramas.
Lucas has been creating films since he was 8 years old, starting with stop-motion short films and ultimately culminating in his first amateur film at 13.
Lucas Parra
Director at Force Majeure
Director and screenwriter Lucas Parra made a name for himself with his final college project, ā€˜Entreterrestres,ā€™ which premiered in the official selection of the Sitges Film Festival and has been awarded at numerous festivals such as Huesca and Camerimage.
ā€œFilmmaking is not just a hobby or a profession for me; it is a way of life. Every aspect of my life revolves around cinema, and I find joy and fulfillment in bringing stories to life on the big screen.ā€
Inspired by Hollywood's 70s style, his films involve meticulous planning, absurd humor, and the use of varied genres such as horror, science fiction, adventure, action and comedy. A common thread in all of his works is his fascination with other eras, both past and future, having filmed 19th century battles and futuristic space dramas.
Lucas has been creating films since he was 8 years old, starting with stop-motion short films and ultimately culminating in his first amateur film at 13.
ā€Ž
Ellen Rodnianski
Director at Force Majeure
Ellen Rodnianski is a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. She was born in Germany into a Russian-speaking Ukrainian family. When she was eight, she moved to Moscow, Russia. She attended English-speaking international schools in both Germany and Russia, and this formed her global perspective.
She received her BA in History from The University of Chicago and followed up this extremely academic degree with an MFA from the USC Peter Stark Producing Program.
After graduating, Ellen was the assistant to the showrunner on the second season of the Netflix Original TV series ā€˜The OAā€™. She was also Kantemir Balagovā€™s Directorā€™s Assistant on the pilot of HBOā€™s ā€˜The Last of Usā€™. Ellen is also an associate producer of Kantemir Balagovā€™s ā€˜Beanpole.ā€™ She speaks English, Russian, German, and French ā€” in descending order of fluency.
Ellen directed four narrative shorts, one of which, ā€˜Growing Pains,ā€™ premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival in 2021 and lives on the renowned short film platform Omeleto. Ellen is now adapting ā€˜Growing Painsā€™ into her debut feature, which is set to shoot in Texas in 2023.
Ellen Rodnianski
Director at Force Majeure
Ellen Rodnianski is a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. She was born in Germany into a Russian-speaking Ukrainian family. When she was eight, she moved to Moscow, Russia. She attended English-speaking international schools in both Germany and Russia, and this formed her global perspective.
She received her BA in History from The University of Chicago and followed up this extremely academic degree with an MFA from the USC Peter Stark Producing Program.
After graduating, Ellen was the assistant to the showrunner on the second season of the Netflix Original TV series ā€˜The OAā€™. She was also Kantemir Balagovā€™s Directorā€™s Assistant on the pilot of HBOā€™s ā€˜The Last of Usā€™. Ellen is also an associate producer of Kantemir Balagovā€™s ā€˜Beanpole.ā€™ She speaks English, Russian, German, and French ā€” in descending order of fluency.
Ellen directed four narrative shorts, one of which, ā€˜Growing Pains,ā€™ premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival in 2021 and lives on the renowned short film platform Omeleto. Ellen is now adapting ā€˜Growing Painsā€™ into her debut feature, which is set to shoot in Texas in 2023.
ā€Ž
Daniela Amavia
Director at Force Majeure
Daniela Amavia is a Greek filmmaker who grew up in Germany and France and currently resides in Los Angeles. While going to college to study American Literature and Drama, Daniela began working as a film actress in projects like the mini-series Children of Dune with Susan Sarandon and James McAvoy.
Daniela has been fascinated by storytelling since she began acting. She is inspired by the fact that stories have been an integral part of humanity since its beginning.
Danielaā€™s first US feature as a director and writer, ā€˜a beautiful now,ā€™ premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival before having a limited run in US theaters. The film was then licensed by Netflix US. ā€˜a beautiful nowā€™ won a number of awards on the festival circuit, including Best Screenplay and Best Experimental Feature. Danielaā€™s script for the film was requested for the permanent collection in the library of the Academy of Motion Pictures, an honor sheā€™s incredibly proud of. Her dream project, after the ones she is currently working on, is an edgy-yet-joyous superhero movie.
ā€œStorytelling is how we give meaning to our lives, share knowledge, and create beauty.ā€
Daniela Amavia
Director at Force Majeure
Daniela Amavia is a Greek filmmaker who grew up in Germany and France and currently resides in Los Angeles. While going to college to study American Literature and Drama, Daniela began working as a film actress in projects like the mini-series Children of Dune with Susan Sarandon and James McAvoy.
Daniela has been fascinated by storytelling since she began acting. She is inspired by the fact that stories have been an integral part of humanity since its beginning.
Danielaā€™s first US feature as a director and writer, ā€˜a beautiful now,ā€™ premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival before having a limited run in US theaters. The film was then licensed by Netflix US. ā€˜a beautiful nowā€™ won a number of awards on the festival circuit, including Best Screenplay and Best Experimental Feature. Danielaā€™s script for the film was requested for the permanent collection in the library of the Academy of Motion Pictures, an honor sheā€™s incredibly proud of. Her dream project, after the ones she is currently working on, is an edgy-yet-joyous superhero movie.
ā€œStorytelling is how we give meaning to our lives, share knowledge, and create beauty.ā€
ā€Ž
Imagine yourself sipping an espresso, dressed in Italian high fashion that has graced the runways of Milan and Paris just weeks before. You emulate the sprezzatura of the localsā€¦you have poise, grace and style - without trying too hard.
As you put down your cup of coffee, your eyes catch the sparkles of the Mediterranean reflecting the sun rays - as they do for most of the year in this part of the world. Your view could just as easily include the ancient villa of a Roman emperor in Capri, a Hollywood superstar inconspicuously walking along the Croisette in Cannes, or passionate flamenco dancers in their extravagant dresses during the Feria de Sevilla.Ā 
RIVIERA
From a distance you hear sounds that you canā€™t quite distinguish, among the lulling of the wavesā€¦is it the melodic sounds of Paco de Luciaā€™s guitar, or the murmur of paparazzi at the Venice Film Festivalā€¦or could it be the Formula 1 race cars revving their engines for the first practice session at the Monaco Grand Prix? This is the art of living, this is the RIVIERAā€¦but is it the French, Italian or Spanish riviera? Youā€™d be forgiven if you didnā€™t immediately find the distinction. Maybe youā€™ll take inspiration from the countless cult films that have embraced the RIVIERA aesthetic - like the Talented Mr. Ripley thatā€™s forever bonded with the cliffs of Positano and the mystical islands of Ischia and Procida, or Hitchcockā€™s legendary To Catch A Thief that lustfully uses Cannes and Villefranche-sur-Mer as the filmā€™s backdrop.Ā 
Maybe you too will become forever connected to the RIVIERA region by using its laid back aesthetic in your own storyā€¦and leaving a legacy that generations will follow.
Imagine yourself sipping an espresso, dressed in Italian high fashion that has graced the runways of Milan and Paris just weeks before. You emulate the sprezzatura of the localsā€¦you have poise, grace and style - without trying too hard.
As you put down your cup of coffee, your eyes catch the sparkles of the Mediterranean reflecting the sun rays - as they do for most of the year in this part of the world. Your view could just as easily include the ancient villa of a Roman emperor in Capri, a Hollywood superstar inconspicuously walking along the Croisette in Cannes, or passionate flamenco dancers in their extravagant dresses during the Feria de Sevilla.Ā 
RIVIERA
From a distance you hear sounds that you canā€™t quite distinguish, among the lulling of the wavesā€¦is it the melodic sounds of Paco de Luciaā€™s guitar, or the murmur of paparazzi at the Venice Film Festivalā€¦or could it be the Formula 1 race cars revving their engines for the first practice session at the Monaco Grand Prix? This is the art of living, this is the RIVIERAā€¦but is it the French, Italian or Spanish riviera? Youā€™d be forgiven if you didnā€™t immediately find the distinction. Maybe youā€™ll take inspiration from the countless cult films that have embraced the RIVIERA aesthetic - like the Talented Mr. Ripley thatā€™s forever bonded with the cliffs of Positano and the mystical islands of Ischia and Procida, or Hitchcockā€™s legendary To Catch A Thief that lustfully uses Cannes and Villefranche-sur-Mer as the filmā€™s backdrop.Ā 
Maybe you too will become forever connected to the RIVIERA region by using its laid back aesthetic in your own storyā€¦and leaving a legacy that generations will follow.
Over the years, Europe has given the world gems in the form of rebellious French (La Nouvelle Vague) cinema, lucid Italian fashion, and pulsating German techno - to name just a few. Europeā€™s many visionary creatives that broke the rules of time and preconceived notions.
European Allure
But what exactly is "New Europe"? It's a movement that's about embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down borders. It's about recognizing a new generation of creatives that are unafraid to explore the intersection of different cultures and identities. And who better to represent this movement than Third Culture Kids - those who have grown up with multiple cultural influences, with distinct, nuanced perspectives allowing them to tell more authentic stories and bridge the communication gap across cultures. These creatives are the heart and soul of Force Majeure, bringing their unique points of view and experiences to the forefront of their creative craft.
**FORCE MAJEURE**: Force Majeure, derived from French, translates to "superior force" - and that's exactly what it represents in the creative world. It's the unstoppable energy that fuels innovative ideas and propels us to push past the limits of what's been done before. It's the lightning bolt that strikes when we least expect it, shocking and upending the status quo.
Over the years, Europe has given the world gems in the form of rebellious French (La Nouvelle Vague) cinema, lucid Italian fashion, and pulsating German techno - to name just a few. Europeā€™s many visionary creatives that broke the rules of time and preconceived notions.
European Allure
ABOUT
But what exactly is "New Europe"? It's a movement that's about embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down borders. It's about recognizing a new generation of creatives that are unafraid to explore the intersection of different cultures and identities.
And who better to represent this movement than Third Culture Kids - those who have grown up with multiple cultural influences, with distinct, nuanced perspectives allowing them to tell more authentic stories and bridge the communication gap across cultures. These creatives are the heart and soul of Force Majeure, bringing their unique points of view and experiences to the forefront of their creative craft.
**FORCE MAJEURE**: Force Majeure, derived from French, translates to "superior force" - and that's exactly what it represents in the creative world. It's the unstoppable energy that fuels innovative ideas and propels us to push past the limits of what's been done before. It's the lightning bolt that strikes when we least expect it, shocking and upending the status quo.
The engine of your classic European car hums happily, as it leads you along sharp hairpin curves towards the Alpine bliss of MĆ©gĆØve, Chamonix, Gstaad or St Moritz. These paths were once tread by the armies of legendary commanders Napoleon and Suvorov. The Swiss watch on your wrist ticks excitedly as it feels itself at home among the dramatic snow capped peaks and valleys that gave the world horological excellence.
The low temperatures and high altitude are balanced by the sweet smell of warm mulled wine, and the murmur of locals by the fireplace discussing Winter Olympiads of a bygone eraā€¦The rush of the international jetset as they crowd the frozen lake that instantly becomes a pilgrimage site for the polo aficionados.
ALPINE
The sleepy huts of isolated Alpine villages that gave us some of the worldā€™s finest cheeses, are a wonderful segway into the Danube, which along with the Rhine finds its source right in the Alps. The Danube seductively leads you to some of the most important and beautiful cultural capitalsā€¦Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade - and everything in between. A treat for all of your senses, you are spoiled for choice: world renowned operas, a taste of Sacher torte, bath houses used by powerful monarchs, brutalist monuments right out of a sci-fi novel, the lights and joy of rustic Christmas markets and the squeak of snow beneath the wheels of antique carriages. Maybe you too will find love here, just as Ethan Hawkeā€™s character did in Before Sunrise.
For this reason, donā€™t be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to Adrien Brody in a local cafĆ© or bumping into Edward Norton at the Nikola Tesla Museum. A little bit of Paris in CafĆ© Gerbeaud, followed by Gropiusā€™ and Kandinskyā€™s Bauhaus. Eclecticism.
The ALPINE region lies at the intersection of East and West. It is the meeting point of Islam and Christianity, Communism and Capitalism, the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian empires, and many other opposing worldviewsā€¦that sometimes clash and sometimes embrace in this part of the world. Its ability to transform allowed for diverse films across periods - from Cyrano de Bergerac, Evita, to Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Spy Game with Robert Redford.
The engine of your classic European car hums happily, as it leads you along sharp hairpin curves towards the Alpine bliss of MĆ©gĆØve, Chamonix, Gstaad or St Moritz. These paths were once tread by the armies of legendary commanders Napoleon and Suvorov. The Swiss watch on your wrist ticks excitedly as it feels itself at home among the dramatic snow capped peaks and valleys that gave the world horological excellence.
The low temperatures and high altitude are balanced by the sweet smell of warm mulled wine, and the murmur of locals by the fireplace discussing Winter Olympiads of a bygone eraā€¦The rush of the international jetset as they crowd the frozen lake that instantly becomes a pilgrimage site for the polo aficionados.
ALPINE
The sleepy huts of isolated Alpine villages that gave us some of the worldā€™s finest cheeses, are a wonderful segway into the Danube, which along with the Rhine finds its source right in the Alps. The Danube seductively leads you to some of the most important and beautiful cultural capitalsā€¦Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade - and everything in between. A treat for all of your senses, you are spoiled for choice: world renowned operas, a taste of Sacher torte, bath houses used by powerful monarchs, brutalist monuments right out of a sci-fi novel, the lights and joy of rustic Christmas markets and the squeak of snow beneath the wheels of antique carriages. Maybe you too will find love here, just as Ethan Hawkeā€™s character did in Before Sunrise.
For this reason, donā€™t be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to Adrien Brody in a local cafĆ© or bumping into Edward Norton at the Nikola Tesla Museum. A little bit of Paris in CafĆ© Gerbeaud, followed by Gropiusā€™ and Kandinskyā€™s Bauhaus. Eclecticism.
The ALPINE region lies at the intersection of East and West. It is the meeting point of Islam and Christianity, Communism and Capitalism, the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian empires, and many other opposing worldviewsā€¦that sometimes clash and sometimes embrace in this part of the world. Its ability to transform allowed for diverse films across periods - from Cyrano de Bergerac, Evita, to Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Spy Game with Robert Redford.
As you lift your gaze to the sky, you are greeted by a strange phenomenon that transports you to a mystical fantasy realm. Youā€™re looking at the mysterious Northern Lights. Surrounded by Norwegian fjords, Icelandic volcanoes, Swedish archipelagos, Finnish lakes and Danish beaches - you sense that this is the place where fairytales and reality become one.
Indeed, itā€™s no coincidence that the gates of the Atlantic are guarded by Hans Christian Andersenā€™s Little Mermaid. All around you is sleek design and elegant minimalism. People walking past you in the streets are the descendants of Vikings & Valkyries - wearing authentic woolen cardigans, gracious faces bathed with Atlantic freshness.
NORDIC
The Nordic Region is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes that are among the most beautiful and dramatic in the worldā€¦but could just as well double for a completely different planet. Sometimes itā€™s difficult to decide whether to seek adventure or to discover the true meaning of "hygge," the Nordic concept of coziness and contentment, forget about everything but still be present like never before. You may, however, find yourself enjoying the sensory overload offered by the Midsommar festival - where colours, music and flowers abound. Dance and bond with friends and strangers alike, while the smell of fresh flowers and strawberries fills the air around you. Midsommar celebrates the summer solstice, renewed life and love - and it just might inspire a new creativity within you.
And while on the topic of creativity, the region has given the world a lot in terms of culture and film locations. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was filmed in Stockholm, Lapland Odyssey in Rovaniemi, Finland, and the Game of Thrones used Iceland as one of its backdrops. On the music side, Justin Bieber found his serene tranquility in Iceland that was brought to life in his music video Iā€™ll Show You. So whether you want cozy and idyllic winter sequences, or striking natural scenery - the NORDIC region awaits you.
As you lift your gaze to the sky, you are greeted by a strange phenomenon that transports you to a mystical fantasy realm. Youā€™re looking at the mysterious Northern Lights. Surrounded by Norwegian fjords, Icelandic volcanoes, Swedish archipelagos, Finnish lakes and Danish beaches - you sense that this is the place where fairytales and reality become one.
Indeed, itā€™s no coincidence that the gates of the Atlantic are guarded by Hans Christian Andersenā€™s Little Mermaid. All around you is sleek design and elegant minimalism. People walking past you in the streets are the descendants of Vikings & Valkyries - wearing authentic woolen cardigans, gracious faces bathed with Atlantic freshness.
NORDIC
The Nordic Region is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes that are among the most beautiful and dramatic in the worldā€¦but could just as well double for a completely different planet. Sometimes itā€™s difficult to decide whether to seek adventure or to discover the true meaning of "hygge," the Nordic concept of coziness and contentment, forget about everything but still be present like never before. You may, however, find yourself enjoying the sensory overload offered by the Midsommar festival - where colours, music and flowers abound. Dance and bond with friends and strangers alike, while the smell of fresh flowers and strawberries fills the air around you. Midsommar celebrates the summer solstice, renewed life and love - and it just might inspire a new creativity within you.
And while on the topic of creativity, the region has given the world a lot in terms of culture and film locations. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was filmed in Stockholm, Lapland Odyssey in Rovaniemi, Finland, and the Game of Thrones used Iceland as one of its backdrops. On the music side, Justin Bieber found his serene tranquility in Iceland that was brought to life in his music video Iā€™ll Show You. So whether you want cozy and idyllic winter sequences, or striking natural scenery - the NORDIC region awaits you.
The gentle waves awake you as the renowned glistening white walls of Dubrovnik come into view. You pick up the faint scents of olive oil, salt and truffles - while listening to the soothing dalmatian chansons of Oliver Dragojevic and Teresa Kesovija coming through the speakers. Indeed, you are in the Adriatic Region - a magical area where history and the present blend into perfect harmony.
You donā€™t even remember how you came to be in this predicament - are you dreaming or are you actually here? Then it hits youā€¦you have a condition that the locals have warned you about: you have the fjaka. It is the state of being where you are semi-conscious and aspire for nothing, content to just be and survive the hot summer months.
ADRIATIC
Lost among cathedrals adorned with Venetian Lions of St Mark, pacing smooth pavements that resist time, you hear electronic beats of one of the many music festivals that lighten up the coast - and instantly you feel like a time traveler gliding across time periods. Whether on the fortified walls of Europeā€™s sunniest island - Hvar, or in the catacombs of Diocletianā€™s Palace in Split - the feeling remains the same: freedom and nostalgia. Youā€™re a stranger here, only if you insist on being one. From the coast, littered with picturesque towns, charming architecture and vivid colours - you may decide to venture inland, to a place like Sarajevo - Europeā€™s Jerusalem. A melting pot of cultures - you may find yourself walking the streets of the Ottoman bazaar known as Bascarija, while observing the locals exchanging jokes over strong Turkish coffee. A city that perfectly reflects the regionā€™s rich religious and cultural heritage - where religions and cultures have coexisted in relative harmony. The region bears its beauty and its past with pride.
For all of its eclecticism and diversity, this region has become a hotspot for all types of content. The Bond franchise found its home for Casino Royale in the wild and authentic Montenegro. From the recent Game of Thrones series and Star Wars: The Last Jedi, to the older films Titus with Anthony Hopkins or Jacques Cousteauā€™s Odyssey - the ADRIATIC region has played itself, other parts of the world and even other worlds entirely. Now you can continue the legacy.
The gentle waves awake you as the renowned glistening white walls of Dubrovnik come into view. You pick up the faint scents of olive oil, salt and truffles - while listening to the soothing dalmatian chansons of Oliver Dragojevic and Teresa Kesovija coming through the speakers. Indeed, you are in the Adriatic Region - a magical area where history and the present blend into perfect harmony.
You donā€™t even remember how you came to be in this predicament - are you dreaming or are you actually here? Then it hits youā€¦you have a condition that the locals have warned you about: you have the fjaka. It is the state of being where you are semi-conscious and aspire for nothing, content to just be and survive the hot summer months.
ADRIATIC
Lost among cathedrals adorned with Venetian Lions of St Mark, pacing smooth pavements that resist time, you hear electronic beats of one of the many music festivals that lighten up the coast - and instantly you feel like a time traveler gliding across time periods. Whether on the fortified walls of Europeā€™s sunniest island - Hvar, or in the catacombs of Diocletianā€™s Palace in Split - the feeling remains the same: freedom and nostalgia. Youā€™re a stranger here, only if you insist on being one. From the coast, littered with picturesque towns, charming architecture and vivid colours - you may decide to venture inland, to a place like Sarajevo - Europeā€™s Jerusalem. A melting pot of cultures - you may find yourself walking the streets of the Ottoman bazaar known as Bascarija, while observing the locals exchanging jokes over strong Turkish coffee. A city that perfectly reflects the regionā€™s rich religious and cultural heritage - where religions and cultures have coexisted in relative harmony. The region bears its beauty and its past with pride.
For all of its eclecticism and diversity, this region has become a hotspot for all types of content. The Bond franchise found its home for Casino Royale in the wild and authentic Montenegro. From the recent Game of Thrones series and Star Wars: The Last Jedi, to the older films Titus with Anthony Hopkins or Jacques Cousteauā€™s Odyssey - the ADRIATIC region has played itself, other parts of the world and even other worlds entirely. Now you can continue the legacy.
Director at Force Majeure
BĆ”rbara Ochoa is a graduate of Universidad AutĆ³noma of Madrid as a Master of Screenwriting for film, television and dramaturgy, and from Centro de CapacitaciĆ³n CinematogrĆ”fica in MĆ©xico in Film Directing. She was selected for the CaƱonazo transmedia workshop in 2021 for creating transmedia projects and branded content.
Since 2021, she has been a creative collaborator in VOLANDO VENGO MOVIE THINKING, and she teaches screenwriting, storyline development, and direction of actors and natural actors in ESCINE, ARTE 7, SAE in Mexico and TAI in Madrid.
She wrote and directed more than 15 short films, including Reminiscencias 2008 y Marea Alta 2010. In 2015 she created Atlantida Cine and directed her first feature film Time without Pulse supported by FOPROCINE of Instituto Mexicano de Cinematografƭa (IMCINE). In 2021 she received a production grant from IMCINE for her second feature film Maria MontaƱa.
BƔrbara Ochoa
Director at Force Majeure
BĆ”rbara Ochoa is a graduate of Universidad AutĆ³noma of Madrid as a Master of Screenwriting for film, television and dramaturgy, and from Centro de CapacitaciĆ³n CinematogrĆ”fica in MĆ©xico in Film Directing. She was selected for the CaƱonazo transmedia workshop in 2021 for creating transmedia projects and branded content.
Since 2021, she has been a creative collaborator in VOLANDO VENGO MOVIE THINKING, and she teaches screenwriting, storyline development, and direction of actors and natural actors in ESCINE, ARTE 7, SAE in Mexico and TAI in Madrid.
She wrote and directed more than 15 short films, including Reminiscencias 2008 y Marea Alta 2010. In 2015 she created Atlantida Cine and directed her first feature film Time without Pulse supported by FOPROCINE of Instituto Mexicano de Cinematografƭa (IMCINE). In 2021 she received a production grant from IMCINE for her second feature film Maria MontaƱa.
BƔrbara Ochoa
Director at Force Majeure
Emma Benestan is a French-Algerian director, screenwriter and editor.
Emma Benestan has also worked as an editor on feature films, such as "Mektoub my love" by Abdellatif Kechiche (Venice 2017). She has also been involved on numerous projects as screenwriter, including "The Right Words" which premiered in Competition at Cannes Film Festival 2021.
After graduating from La FĆ©mis, she directed several short films : ā€œUn monde sans bĆŖte" (Clermont Ferrand 2018), "GoĆ»t bacon"(70 festival selections and shortlisted for the French Academy Awards) and "Belle Gueule" (60 festival selections, winner of the CNC quality award). In her first feature film "Fragile", she hijacks the traditional codes of comedy with a joyfully feminist take on contemporary masculinity. The film was released in theatres in 2021 and received critical acclaim.
Emma Benestan
Director at Force Majeure
Emma Benestan is a French-Algerian director, screenwriter and editor.
Emma Benestan has also worked as an editor on feature films, such as "Mektoub my love" by Abdellatif Kechiche (Venice 2017). She has also been involved on numerous projects as screenwriter, including "The Right Words" which premiered in Competition at Cannes Film Festival 2021.
After graduating from La FĆ©mis, she directed several short films : ā€œUn monde sans bĆŖte" (Clermont Ferrand 2018), "GoĆ»t bacon"(70 festival selections and shortlisted for the French Academy Awards) and "Belle Gueule" (60 festival selections, winner of the CNC quality award). In her first feature film "Fragile", she hijacks the traditional codes of comedy with a joyfully feminist take on contemporary masculinity. The film was released in theatres in 2021 and received critical acclaim.
Emma Benestan
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Brian Tolleson
Advisor at Force Majeure
Brian Tolleson has been a VP of Creative and Marketing, Creative Director, and an Executive Producer at various networks at MTV Networks in NYC, part of media giant Viacom. He has created over 100 hours of television for the MTVN group of networks.
He was responsible for the creative pitch and creation of the brand, the brand strategy, and the successful greenlight and launch of Logo, the first-ever 24-7-365 channel for LGBT Americans. Previous to MTVN, Brian ran Naked Eye Films, a branding and production company, serving diverse clients such as Kraft, General Mills, Warner Brothers, Turner Entertainment, CNN, Nick and WWF. Brian began his career in Los Angeles at world-famous talent agency Creative Artists Agency and continued as a story editor at Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Entertainment, working for Multi-Academy Award Winning Producer Douglas Wick. He graduated from Emory University with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Biology and holds his Master of Public Health from Rollins School of Public Health at Emory as well.
Brianā€™s work as a creative, a content strategist, a producer and a director have been honored by the Clios, Cannes Lions, Promax, BDA, AIGA, CTAM, The Tellys, The Ad Club and numerous film festivals and industry organizations. He received a 2009 Emmy Nomination for Best Promotional Campaign and his creative and strategic work on Kathy Griffinā€™s album received a 2009 Grammy Nomination as well.
Brian Tolleson
Advisor at Force Majeure
Brian Tolleson has been a VP of Creative and Marketing, Creative Director, and an Executive Producer at various networks at MTV Networks in NYC, part of media giant Viacom. He has created over 100 hours of television for the MTVN group of networks.
He was responsible for the creative pitch and creation of the brand, the brand strategy, and the successful greenlight and launch of Logo, the first-ever 24-7-365 channel for LGBT Americans. Previous to MTVN, Brian ran Naked Eye Films, a branding and production company, serving diverse clients such as Kraft, General Mills, Warner Brothers, Turner Entertainment, CNN, Nick and WWF. Brian began his career in Los Angeles at world-famous talent agency Creative Artists Agency and continued as a story editor at Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Entertainment, working for Multi-Academy Award Winning Producer Douglas Wick. He graduated from Emory University with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Biology and holds his Master of Public Health from Rollins School of Public Health at Emory as well.
Brianā€™s work as a creative, a content strategist, a producer and a director have been honored by the Clios, Cannes Lions, Promax, BDA, AIGA, CTAM, The Tellys, The Ad Club and numerous film festivals and industry organizations. He received a 2009 Emmy Nomination for Best Promotional Campaign and his creative and strategic work on Kathy Griffinā€™s album received a 2009 Grammy Nomination as well.
Head of Production at Force Majeure
Milan has developed his expertise managing production operations of some of the biggest productions to film in Serbia & the broader region.
Having a broad cross-departmental experience, including leading the Location department, Production Accounting and Production Management, Milan has been a crucial component for Serbiaā€™s biggest service production company due to his versatility and quiet professionalism. As such, he has experience with both small commercial shoots and huge, complex blockbuster features. Some of his credits include: Knives Out: Glass Onion (2022), Hellraiser (2022), Crawl (2019), Anna (2019) - as well as titles coming soon, such as Our Man From Jersey and True Haunting (2023).
Milan Maksimovic
Head of Production at Force Majeure
Milan has developed his expertise managing production operations of some of the biggest productions to film in Serbia & the broader region.
Having a broad cross-departmental experience, including leading the Location department, Production Accounting and Production Management, Milan has been a crucial component for Serbiaā€™s biggest service production company due to his versatility and quiet professionalism. As such, he has experience with both small commercial shoots and huge, complex blockbuster features. Some of his credits include: Knives Out: Glass Onion (2022), Hellraiser (2022), Crawl (2019), Anna (2019) - as well as titles coming soon, such as Our Man From Jersey and True Haunting (2023).
Milan Maksimovic
Producer (TV/Film) at Force Majeure
Hrisheek Panchmatia, born and raised in Hong Kong, specialized in Economics and Finance and worked at high profile firms such as HSBC before transitioning into the film industry.
Since then, Hrisheek has become a producer based between Hong Kong, Monaco, and Los Angeles, where he is producing and lending his expertise on several projects: notably ā€˜The Runnerā€™ and ā€˜Get Lostā€™. He also acted as an associate producer for the short film M.A.D directed by Leticia Belliccini, whose previous film screened at the Tribeca Film Festival. He is currently working with Ella Travoltaā€™s company Bleu Films, LLC. as her producing partner as well as producing the television series ā€˜Relentlessā€™ based on the New York Times Bestseller of the same name with Force Majeure. He is producing the feature film ā€˜The Affairs of LĆ©onardā€™ with Greca Entertainment.
Hrisheek Panchmatia
Producer (TV/Film) at Force Majeure
Hrisheek Panchmatia, born and raised in Hong Kong, specialized in Economics and Finance and worked at high profile firms such as HSBC before transitioning into the film industry.
Since then, Hrisheek has become a producer based between Hong Kong, Monaco, and Los Angeles, where he is producing and lending his expertise on several projects: notably ā€˜The Runnerā€™ and ā€˜Get Lostā€™. He also acted as an associate producer for the short film M.A.D directed by Leticia Belliccini, whose previous film screened at the Tribeca Film Festival. He is currently working with Ella Travoltaā€™s company Bleu Films, LLC. as her producing partner as well as producing the television series ā€˜Relentlessā€™ based on the New York Times Bestseller of the same name with Force Majeure. He is producing the feature film ā€˜The Affairs of LĆ©onardā€™ with Greca Entertainment.
Hrisheek Panchmatia
Creative Executive at Force Majeure
After completing her studies in Communication and Comparative Literature at Sorbonne Paris IV, Tatiana pursued a Master's degree in International Relations at IRIS.
Building upon her acquired skills, she embarked on her professional journey as a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) manager, showcasing her dedication to promoting social responsibility in the business realm. Later, she excelled as a consultant at Istrat, an economic intelligence firm, where she applied her analytical and writing abilities to strategic monitoring in the fields of politics and geopolitics. Driven by her passion for cinema, Tatiana chose to specialize in screenplay writing by undertaking an advanced Master's program at the Instituto del Cine de Madrid. This training nurtured her talent as a Script Doctor, allowing her to contribute her expertise in enhancing and perfecting scripts. Fluent in three languagesā€”English, French, and Spanish-she effortlessly operates within an international context.
Tatiana Djordjevic
Her career path led her to join the emerging spanish production company, MagĆ¼, where she actively engages in content development for television. For the past year, she has been an integral part of the Force Majeure team, working closely with its founder, Dario Kirola, to develop diverse internationally-oriented projects and contribute to the creation and execution of promising content for both film and television industries.
Creative Executive at Force Majeure
After completing her studies in Communication and Comparative Literature at Sorbonne Paris IV, Tatiana pursued a Master's degree in International Relations at IRIS.
Building upon her acquired skills, she embarked on her professional journey as a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) manager, showcasing her dedication to promoting social responsibility in the business realm. Later, she excelled as a consultant at Istrat, an economic intelligence firm, where she applied her analytical and writing abilities to strategic monitoring in the fields of politics and geopolitics. Driven by her passion for cinema, Tatiana chose to specialize in screenplay writing by undertaking an advanced Master's program at the Instituto del Cine de Madrid. This training nurtured her talent as a Script Doctor, allowing her to contribute her expertise in enhancing and perfecting scripts. Fluent in three languagesā€”English, French, and Spanish-she effortlessly operates within an international context.
Tatiana Djordjevic
Her career path led her to join the emerging spanish production company, MagĆ¼, where she actively engages in content development for television. For the past year, she has been an integral part of the Force Majeure team, working closely with its founder, Dario Kirola, to develop diverse internationally-oriented projects and contribute to the creation and execution of promising content for both film and television industries.
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Masha Zhemchuzhina
Director at Force Majeure
Masha Zhemchuzhina is a film director and creative director. Her journey in the creative realm began with International Journalism studies at the Saint Petersburg State University, followed by a degree in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, and culminating with an additional diploma from the Art School.
Over the past decade, Zhemchuzhina's career has been a whirlwind of achievements and global collaborations. She has directed over 100 projects across a range of locations including Russia, Spain, Finland, Norway, France, Italy, Germany, the UAE, Kazakhstan, and the USA. Her dynamic work has caught the attention of major music labels like Universal Music, Warner Music, Meladze Music, Musica 36 and many others - leading to regular collaborations.
Zhemchuzhina's portfolio includes projects for high-profile brands such as KFC, Nike, Cockta, Microsoft, Xbox, Clarins, and Yandex. Her unique vision and creative flair have brought these brands' stories to life in a compelling and memorable way. In short, she really loves what she does.
Masha Zhemchuzhina
Director at Force Majeure
Masha Zhemchuzhina is a film director and creative director. Her journey in the creative realm began with International Journalism studies at the Saint Petersburg State University, followed by a degree in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, and culminating with an additional diploma from the Art School.
Over the past decade, Zhemchuzhina's career has been a whirlwind of achievements and global collaborations. She has directed over 100 projects across a range of locations including Russia, Spain, Finland, Norway, France, Italy, Germany, the UAE, Kazakhstan, and the USA. Her dynamic work has caught the attention of major music labels like Universal Music, Warner Music, Meladze Music, Musica 36 and many others - leading to regular collaborations.
Zhemchuzhina's portfolio includes projects for high-profile brands such as KFC, Nike, Cockta, Microsoft, Xbox, Clarins, and Yandex. Her unique vision and creative flair have brought these brands' stories to life in a compelling and memorable way. In short, she really loves what she does.
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Vittoria Rizzardi PeƱalosa
Director at Force Majeure
After moving to London to attend Law School, Vittoria graduated in 2017 with an LLB in Law at City University. In that same year she moved to the USA to attend the MFA degree in screenwriting at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Vittoriaā€™s scripts were finalists in several screenplay contests such as Sundance Episodic LAB, Blue Cat, and The Launch. Her directorial work has screened at prestigious venues across the world including the MAXXI Museum of Modern Art in Rome, Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, and the VIFF centre in Vancouver.
Her films have premiered on platforms such as My Movies and Minute Shorts, while being recognised in Oscar-qualifying film festivals including the HBO film festival in Palms Springs, LA International Shorts Film Festival, and the Vancouver International Film Festival. Her feature film in development titled ā€œIt burnsā€, a coming-of-age psychological-thriller, was selected at the Venice Biennale College Cinema 2023 along with only six other projects. Vittoria has directed music videos for musicians between Milan, London, and Amsterdam as well as campaigns for Barbour, Swaroski, Cirque Du Soleil, and LE MILE magazine.
Vittoria Rizzardi PeƱalosa
Director at Force Majeure
After moving to London to attend Law School, Vittoria graduated in 2017 with an LLB in Law at City University. In that same year she moved to the USA to attend the MFA degree in screenwriting at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Vittoriaā€™s scripts were finalists in several screenplay contests such as Sundance Episodic LAB, Blue Cat, and The Launch. Her directorial work has screened at prestigious venues across the world including the MAXXI Museum of Modern Art in Rome, Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, and the VIFF centre in Vancouver.
Her films have premiered on platforms such as My Movies and Minute Shorts, while being recognised in Oscar-qualifying film festivals including the HBO film festival in Palms Springs, LA International Shorts Film Festival, and the Vancouver International Film Festival. Her feature film in development titled ā€œIt burnsā€, a coming-of-age psychological-thriller, was selected at the Venice Biennale College Cinema 2023 along with only six other projects. Vittoria has directed music videos for musicians between Milan, London, and Amsterdam as well as campaigns for Barbour, Swaroski, Cirque Du Soleil, and LE MILE magazine.
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ADAM MORSE
Director at Force Majeure
Adam Morse is a British-born actor/writer/director/ producer based in London and is the worldā€™s first award-winning blind filmmaker to be celebrated in Hollywood. Adam lost most of his eyesight at the age of nineteen in 2009 when he was diagnosed with the incurable mitochondrial disease LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy). Since then, Adam has gone against all odds to break boundaries in the entertainment business by becoming an industry trailblazer for other differently-abled artists.
Morseā€™s feature debut as writer/director ā€˜LUCIDā€™ (starring Billy Zane), was released on Amazon in 2020, and it was nominated for the prestigious "Michael Powel Award" at the Edinburgh Film Festival and went on to win "Best Director" at the GOLD MOVIE AWARDS in London. Adam has also made headlines by becoming a ā€œBLIND ACTION STARā€ (New York Post) after appearing in a recurring role on the APPLE+ series "SEE" (starring Jason Momoa), where he performed his own stunts on screen. Adam became the first blind model to walk the runway at London Fashion Week 2022. Morse is writing a self-help/memoir book describing his experiences overcoming blindness and inspiring readers to adopt a positive mentality for success. Morse recently founded the non-profit organization Crystal Vision Foundation to support blind artists in film/TV. Adam has gone from keeping his blindness a secret in the industry, to now being extremely candid about his condition and sharing his unique journey through public speaking with live talks on big stages such as DUBAI EXPO 2020, Cannes Film Festival, META ENTERTAINMENT WORLD SUMMIT, and GREENWICH UNIVERSITY to name a few.
Morse has been prolific in directing advertisement films with stunning end products for major high-end brands such as GOOGLE, PUMA, MCLAREN, GSK, and others. Adam again challenged disability stigma as an actor with his recent critically acclaimed performance in the psychological drama ā€˜SUPPRESSIONā€™ where he plays a fully sighted character. Adam is developing a slate of movie/TV projects with his production company HOLLYFIELD PRODUCTIONS and is attached to direct a number of feature films, including Sci-Fi Comedy ā€˜CHANNEL THREE BILLIONā€™ being produced by RADAR PICTURES. Morse is currently being considered for BAFTA ā€˜BREAKTHROUGH BRITā€™ and is also now working as an ambassador for the RNIB (ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTION for the BLIND).
Adamā€™s recent Super Bowl 2024 commercial success for Google, played just before the halftime show and caused an emotional reaction from all those who saw it, with 50 million views on YouTube. The New York Times named it best of the bunch. Ad Age ranked it in their top five of the event. USA today said it was the most heartfelt commercial film ever seen at the Super Bowl. PEOPLE Magazine highlighted it as one of the top spots. Morse is fast cornering the market as one of the most exciting differently-abled talents on the planet.
ADAM MORSE
Director at Force Majeure
Adam Morse is a British-born actor/writer/director/ producer based in London and is the worldā€™s first award-winning blind filmmaker to be celebrated in Hollywood. Adam lost most of his eyesight at the age of nineteen in 2009 when he was diagnosed with the incurable mitochondrial disease LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy). Since then, Adam has gone against all odds to break boundaries in the entertainment business by becoming an industry trailblazer for other differently-abled artists.
Morseā€™s feature debut as writer/director ā€˜LUCIDā€™ (starring Billy Zane), was released on Amazon in 2020, and it was nominated for the prestigious "Michael Powel Award" at the Edinburgh Film Festival and went on to win "Best Director" at the GOLD MOVIE AWARDS in London. Adam has also made headlines by becoming a ā€œBLIND ACTION STARā€ (New York Post) after appearing in a recurring role on the APPLE+ series "SEE" (starring Jason Momoa), where he performed his own stunts on screen. Adam became the first blind model to walk the runway at London Fashion Week 2022. Morse is writing a self-help/memoir book describing his experiences overcoming blindness and inspiring readers to adopt a positive mentality for success. Morse recently founded the non-profit organization Crystal Vision Foundation to support blind artists in film/TV. Adam has gone from keeping his blindness a secret in the industry, to now being extremely candid about his condition and sharing his unique journey through public speaking with live talks on big stages such as DUBAI EXPO 2020, Cannes Film Festival, META ENTERTAINMENT WORLD SUMMIT, and GREENWICH UNIVERSITY to name a few.
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Morse has been prolific in directing advertisement films with stunning end products for major high-end brands such as GOOGLE, PUMA, MCLAREN, GSK, and others. Adam again challenged disability stigma as an actor with his recent critically acclaimed performance in the psychological drama ā€˜SUPPRESSIONā€™ where he plays a fully sighted character. Adam is developing a slate of movie/TV projects with his production company HOLLYFIELD PRODUCTIONS and is attached to direct a number of feature films, including Sci-Fi Comedy ā€˜CHANNEL THREE BILLIONā€™ being produced by RADAR PICTURES. Morse is currently being considered for BAFTA ā€˜BREAKTHROUGH BRITā€™ and is also now working as an ambassador for the RNIB (ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTION for the BLIND).
Adamā€™s recent Super Bowl 2024 commercial success for Google, played just before the halftime show and caused an emotional reaction from all those who saw it, with 50 million views on YouTube. The New York Times named it best of the bunch. Ad Age ranked it in their top five of the event. USA today said it was the most heartfelt commercial film ever seen at the Super Bowl. PEOPLE Magazine highlighted it as one of the top spots. Morse is fast cornering the market as one of the most exciting differently-abled talents on the planet.
Dario Kirola
Founder at Force Majeure
Dario Kirola is a multicultural and multilingual media entrepreneur, producer, and expert in branding and global strategy. As the true definition of a ā€œthird culture kid,ā€ he is fluent in 5 languages and has lived in 7 countries, currently dividing his time between the US and Europe.
During his work for McKinsey & Co, he was part of a small team that developed the worldā€™s most comprehensive and advanced trends database, serving various prestigious global clients. In 2011, he founded Force Majeure, an international production and consulting company that develops, produces, and finances film, scripted, and unscripted TV. As of 2023, Force Majeure represents the most talented young European directors on the US market. The company has had a number of prominent clients, including a long-term relationship with The Coca-Cola Company. Most recently, Kirola & Force Majeure have been engaged in the complex endeavor of bringing the iconic British multinational coffee chain, Costa Coffee, to the US. This included helping to open the very first retail locations on US soil and social media management for Costa Coffee USA.
Kirola maintains a close relationship with Monaco, where he launched his entertainment career by producing the first ever English-language unscripted series based in the Principality, which was also the first ever live-streamed series on Facebook. Being globally-minded, Dario specializes in sourcing stories and intellectual property with global potential from niche local markets. Kirola's projects have won numerous international awards and accolades, and have equally featured prestige and emerging talent.
Dario is an avid athlete, having played tennis at a high level and holding black belts in Shotokan and Shidokan karate. He holds a BBA from Emory University and an MBA from INSEAD.
Dario Kirola
Founder at Force Majeure
Dario Kirola is a multicultural and multilingual media entrepreneur, producer, and expert in branding and global strategy. As the true definition of a ā€œthird culture kid,ā€ he is fluent in 5 languages and has lived in 7 countries, currently dividing his time between the US and Europe.
During his work for McKinsey & Co, he was part of a small team that developed the worldā€™s most comprehensive and advanced trends database, serving various prestigious global clients. In 2011, he founded Force Majeure, an international production and consulting company that develops, produces, and finances film, scripted, and unscripted TV. As of 2023, Force Majeure represents the most talented young European directors on the US market. The company has had a number of prominent clients, including a long-term relationship with The Coca-Cola Company. Most recently, Kirola & Force Majeure have been engaged in the complex endeavor of bringing the iconic British multinational coffee chain, Costa Coffee, to the US. This included helping to open the very first retail locations on US soil and social media management for Costa Coffee USA.
Kirola maintains a close relationship with Monaco, where he launched his entertainment career by producing the first ever English-language unscripted series based in the Principality, which was also the first ever live-streamed series on Facebook. Being globally-minded, Dario specializes in sourcing stories and intellectual property with global potential from niche local markets. Kirola's projects have won numerous international awards and accolades, and have equally featured prestige and emerging talent.
Dario is an avid athlete, having played tennis at a high level and holding black belts in Shotokan and Shidokan karate. He holds a BBA from Emory University and an MBA from INSEAD.
Leticia Belliccini
Director at Force Majeure
Leticia Belliccini is an Italian actress, screenwriter, and director. She began taking acting classes at the Conservatoire of the 1st arrondissement and then at the Cours Florent under the direction of Julien Koseleck. She also took acting workshops with Jordan Beswick and Jack Waltzer.
She appeared in several films such as ā€˜Banlieue 13 Ultimatumā€™ by Patrick Alexandrin, ā€˜Heartbreakerā€™ by Pascal Chaumeil, ā€˜Qā€™ by Laurent Bouhnik, ā€˜There's Still Hamā€™ by Anne Depetrini, and ā€˜Billieā€™ by Pascal Alex Vincent. She also appeared in several TV series including ā€˜Les Bleusā€™ (M6), the Disney series ā€˜SOS Superheroes,ā€™ and Franck CimĆØre's ā€˜Operation Portugalā€™ (2020).
In theater, she played roles in ā€˜Eva PerĆ³nā€™ by Copi, ā€˜The Firstā€™ by Israel Horowitz, and ā€˜The Loverā€™ by Pinter. In addition, she writes short stories and several screenplays.
Since 2016, she has directed the short films ā€˜Le Principe Premier,ā€™ ā€˜Spin,ā€™ ā€˜MAD,ā€™ and ā€˜HƖLTY.ā€™ She was also a second unit director on the film ā€˜Redemption Dayā€™ with Andy Garcia, Gary Dourdan, and Martin Donovan. In addition, she directs for television, including ā€˜Un si grand soleilā€™ (France 2) and ā€˜Plus belle la vieā€™ (France 3). She is currently developing her miniseries ā€˜L'oeil vif du poisson mortā€™ and her feature films ā€˜I'm not just a mistakeā€™ and ā€˜Le dernier souffle.ā€™
Leticia Belliccini
Director at Force Majeure
Leticia Belliccini is an Italian actress, screenwriter, and director. She began taking acting classes at the Conservatoire of the 1st arrondissement and then at the Cours Florent under the direction of Julien Koseleck. She also took acting workshops with Jordan Beswick and Jack Waltzer.
She appeared in several films such as ā€˜Banlieue 13 Ultimatumā€™ by Patrick Alexandrin, ā€˜Heartbreakerā€™ by Pascal Chaumeil, ā€˜Qā€™ by Laurent Bouhnik, ā€˜There's Still Hamā€™ by Anne Depetrini, and ā€˜Billieā€™ by Pascal Alex Vincent. She also appeared in several TV series including ā€˜Les Bleusā€™ (M6), the Disney series ā€˜SOS Superheroes,ā€™ and Franck CimĆØre's ā€˜Operation Portugalā€™ (2020).
In theater, she played roles in ā€˜Eva PerĆ³nā€™ by Copi, ā€˜The Firstā€™ by Israel Horowitz, and ā€˜The Loverā€™ by Pinter. In addition, she writes short stories and several screenplays.
Since 2016, she has directed the short films ā€˜Le Principe Premier,ā€™ ā€˜Spin,ā€™ ā€˜MAD,ā€™ and ā€˜HƖLTY.ā€™ She was also a second unit director on the film ā€˜Redemption Dayā€™ with Andy Garcia, Gary Dourdan, and Martin Donovan. In addition, she directs for television, including ā€˜Un si grand soleilā€™ (France 2) and ā€˜Plus belle la vieā€™ (France 3). She is currently developing her miniseries ā€˜L'oeil vif du poisson mortā€™ and her feature films ā€˜I'm not just a mistakeā€™ and ā€˜Le dernier souffle.ā€™
ā€Ž
Francesca Mazzoleni
Director at Force Majeure
Francesca Mazzoleni is an Italian director and screenwriter. She graduated from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia of Rome in 2015.
She has directed short films and documentaries that have won several awards, e.g. ā€˜Nowhere, I Know You Can Hear Me, 1989.ā€™ In 2018 she directed her first project, the coming-of-age feature film ā€˜That's Lifeā€™. Her latest film, the lyrical and political documentary ā€˜Punta Sacra,ā€™ received the Jury Award for Best Feature Film at the Visions du RĆ©el Documentary Film Festival in April 2020, the David di Donatello nomination for Best Documentary 2021, and the Silver Ribbon ā€˜Valentina Pediciniā€™ 2021.
Most recently, she directed Netflixā€™s Supersex series, loosely inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, which is set to be released this year.
Francesca Mazzoleni
Director at Force Majeure
Francesca Mazzoleni is an Italian director and screenwriter. She graduated from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia of Rome in 2015.
She has directed short films and documentaries that have won several awards, e.g. ā€˜Nowhere, I Know You Can Hear Me, 1989.ā€™ In 2018 she directed her first project, the coming-of-age feature film ā€˜That's Lifeā€™. Her latest film, the lyrical and political documentary ā€˜Punta Sacra,ā€™ received the Jury Award for Best Feature Film at the Visions du RĆ©el Documentary Film Festival in April 2020, the David di Donatello nomination for Best Documentary 2021, and the Silver Ribbon ā€˜Valentina Pediciniā€™ 2021.
Most recently, she directed Netflixā€™s Supersex series, loosely inspired by the life of Rocco Siffredi, which is set to be released this year.
ā€Ž
Stevan Lee Mraovitch
Director at Force Majeure
Stevan Lee Mraovitch, a New York City native of Taiwanese and Serbian heritage, is an artist known for blending cultural influences across various disciplines. Stevan studied at the French film school ESEC and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University. By embracing both European and American filmmaking traditions, he received several scholarships for directing and producing.
At the age of 22, Stevan published his first poetry collection, ā€œAnalgesia, the Scars of Love and Revolts.ā€ This work explores themes of nostalgia and brotherhood in the context of war-torn Yugoslavia and received notable attention. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he co-founded the Serbian Philanthropic Association in New York, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact on othersā€™ lives.
His directorial debut, ā€˜Holidays At All Cost,ā€™ was met with critical acclaim and various awards, such as the Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 28th Austin Film Festival. Stevanā€™s commitment to intercultural collaboration earned him the Excellence in International Cooperation Award from the Heritage Foundation of Serbia in 2015.
Stevanā€™s interest in filmmaking and storytelling has been an integral part of him since birth. As a child, he would use shadow puppets on his bedroom wall to tell Chinese folk tales to his siblings.
ā€œI was bitten by the storytelling bug.ā€
Stevan Lee Mraovitch
Director at Force Majeure
Stevan Lee Mraovitch, a New York City native of Taiwanese and Serbian heritage, is an artist known for blending cultural influences across various disciplines. Stevan studied at the French film school ESEC and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University. By embracing both European and American filmmaking traditions, he received several scholarships for directing and producing.
At the age of 22, Stevan published his first poetry collection, ā€œAnalgesia, the Scars of Love and Revolts.ā€ This work explores themes of nostalgia and brotherhood in the context of war-torn Yugoslavia and received notable attention. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he co-founded the Serbian Philanthropic Association in New York, showcasing his dedication to making a positive impact on othersā€™ lives.
His directorial debut, ā€˜Holidays At All Cost,ā€™ was met with critical acclaim and various awards, such as the Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 28th Austin Film Festival. Stevanā€™s commitment to intercultural collaboration earned him the Excellence in International Cooperation Award from the Heritage Foundation of Serbia in 2015.
Stevanā€™s interest in filmmaking and storytelling has been an integral part of him since birth. As a child, he would use shadow puppets on his bedroom wall to tell Chinese folk tales to his siblings.
ā€œI was bitten by the storytelling bug.ā€
ā€Ž
Lucas Parra
Director at Force Majeure
Director and screenwriter Lucas Parra made a name for himself with his final college project, ā€˜Entreterrestres,ā€™ which premiered in the official selection of the Sitges Film Festival and has been awarded at numerous festivals such as Huesca and Camerimage.
ā€œFilmmaking is not just a hobby or a profession for me; it is a way of life. Every aspect of my life revolves around cinema, and I find joy and fulfillment in bringing stories to life on the big screen.ā€
Inspired by Hollywood's 70s style, his films involve meticulous planning, absurd humor, and the use of varied genres such as horror, science fiction, adventure, action and comedy. A common thread in all of his works is his fascination with other eras, both past and future, having filmed 19th century battles and futuristic space dramas.
Lucas has been creating films since he was 8 years old, starting with stop-motion short films and ultimately culminating in his first amateur film at 13.
Lucas Parra
Director at Force Majeure
Director and screenwriter Lucas Parra made a name for himself with his final college project, ā€˜Entreterrestres,ā€™ which premiered in the official selection of the Sitges Film Festival and has been awarded at numerous festivals such as Huesca and Camerimage.
ā€œFilmmaking is not just a hobby or a profession for me; it is a way of life. Every aspect of my life revolves around cinema, and I find joy and fulfillment in bringing stories to life on the big screen.ā€
Inspired by Hollywood's 70s style, his films involve meticulous planning, absurd humor, and the use of varied genres such as horror, science fiction, adventure, action and comedy. A common thread in all of his works is his fascination with other eras, both past and future, having filmed 19th century battles and futuristic space dramas.
Lucas has been creating films since he was 8 years old, starting with stop-motion short films and ultimately culminating in his first amateur film at 13.
ā€Ž
Ellen Rodnianski
Director at Force Majeure
Ellen Rodnianski is a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. She was born in Germany into a Russian-speaking Ukrainian family. When she was eight, she moved to Moscow, Russia. She attended English-speaking international schools in both Germany and Russia, and this formed her global perspective.
She received her BA in History from The University of Chicago and followed up this extremely academic degree with an MFA from the USC Peter Stark Producing Program.
After graduating, Ellen was the assistant to the showrunner on the second season of the Netflix Original TV series ā€˜The OAā€™. She was also Kantemir Balagovā€™s Directorā€™s Assistant on the pilot of HBOā€™s ā€˜The Last of Usā€™. Ellen is also an associate producer of Kantemir Balagovā€™s ā€˜Beanpole.ā€™ She speaks English, Russian, German, and French ā€” in descending order of fluency.
Ellen directed four narrative shorts, one of which, ā€˜Growing Pains,ā€™ premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival in 2021 and lives on the renowned short film platform Omeleto. Ellen is now adapting ā€˜Growing Painsā€™ into her debut feature, which is set to shoot in Texas in 2023.
Ellen Rodnianski
Director at Force Majeure
Ellen Rodnianski is a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, California. She was born in Germany into a Russian-speaking Ukrainian family. When she was eight, she moved to Moscow, Russia. She attended English-speaking international schools in both Germany and Russia, and this formed her global perspective.
She received her BA in History from The University of Chicago and followed up this extremely academic degree with an MFA from the USC Peter Stark Producing Program.
After graduating, Ellen was the assistant to the showrunner on the second season of the Netflix Original TV series ā€˜The OAā€™. She was also Kantemir Balagovā€™s Directorā€™s Assistant on the pilot of HBOā€™s ā€˜The Last of Usā€™. Ellen is also an associate producer of Kantemir Balagovā€™s ā€˜Beanpole.ā€™ She speaks English, Russian, German, and French ā€” in descending order of fluency.
Ellen directed four narrative shorts, one of which, ā€˜Growing Pains,ā€™ premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival in 2021 and lives on the renowned short film platform Omeleto. Ellen is now adapting ā€˜Growing Painsā€™ into her debut feature, which is set to shoot in Texas in 2023.
ā€Ž
Daniela Amavia
Director at Force Majeure
Daniela Amavia is a Greek filmmaker who grew up in Germany and France and currently resides in Los Angeles. While going to college to study American Literature and Drama, Daniela began working as a film actress in projects like the mini-series Children of Dune with Susan Sarandon and James McAvoy.
Daniela has been fascinated by storytelling since she began acting. She is inspired by the fact that stories have been an integral part of humanity since its beginning.
Danielaā€™s first US feature as a director and writer, ā€˜a beautiful now,ā€™ premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival before having a limited run in US theaters. The film was then licensed by Netflix US. ā€˜a beautiful nowā€™ won a number of awards on the festival circuit, including Best Screenplay and Best Experimental Feature. Danielaā€™s script for the film was requested for the permanent collection in the library of the Academy of Motion Pictures, an honor sheā€™s incredibly proud of. Her dream project, after the ones she is currently working on, is an edgy-yet-joyous superhero movie.
ā€œStorytelling is how we give meaning to our lives, share knowledge, and create beauty.ā€
Daniela Amavia
Director at Force Majeure
Daniela Amavia is a Greek filmmaker who grew up in Germany and France and currently resides in Los Angeles. While going to college to study American Literature and Drama, Daniela began working as a film actress in projects like the mini-series Children of Dune with Susan Sarandon and James McAvoy.
Daniela has been fascinated by storytelling since she began acting. She is inspired by the fact that stories have been an integral part of humanity since its beginning.
Danielaā€™s first US feature as a director and writer, ā€˜a beautiful now,ā€™ premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival before having a limited run in US theaters. The film was then licensed by Netflix US. ā€˜a beautiful nowā€™ won a number of awards on the festival circuit, including Best Screenplay and Best Experimental Feature. Danielaā€™s script for the film was requested for the permanent collection in the library of the Academy of Motion Pictures, an honor sheā€™s incredibly proud of. Her dream project, after the ones she is currently working on, is an edgy-yet-joyous superhero movie.
ā€œStorytelling is how we give meaning to our lives, share knowledge, and create beauty.ā€
ā€Ž
Imagine yourself sipping an espresso, dressed in Italian high fashion that has graced the runways of Milan and Paris just weeks before. You emulate the sprezzatura of the localsā€¦you have poise, grace and style - without trying too hard.
As you put down your cup of coffee, your eyes catch the sparkles of the Mediterranean reflecting the sun rays - as they do for most of the year in this part of the world. Your view could just as easily include the ancient villa of a Roman emperor in Capri, a Hollywood superstar inconspicuously walking along the Croisette in Cannes, or passionate flamenco dancers in their extravagant dresses during the Feria de Sevilla.Ā 
RIVIERA
From a distance you hear sounds that you canā€™t quite distinguish, among the lulling of the wavesā€¦is it the melodic sounds of Paco de Luciaā€™s guitar, or the murmur of paparazzi at the Venice Film Festivalā€¦or could it be the Formula 1 race cars revving their engines for the first practice session at the Monaco Grand Prix? This is the art of living, this is the RIVIERAā€¦but is it the French, Italian or Spanish riviera? Youā€™d be forgiven if you didnā€™t immediately find the distinction. Maybe youā€™ll take inspiration from the countless cult films that have embraced the RIVIERA aesthetic - like the Talented Mr. Ripley thatā€™s forever bonded with the cliffs of Positano and the mystical islands of Ischia and Procida, or Hitchcockā€™s legendary To Catch A Thief that lustfully uses Cannes and Villefranche-sur-Mer as the filmā€™s backdrop.Ā 
Maybe you too will become forever connected to the RIVIERA region by using its laid back aesthetic in your own storyā€¦and leaving a legacy that generations will follow.
Imagine yourself sipping an espresso, dressed in Italian high fashion that has graced the runways of Milan and Paris just weeks before. You emulate the sprezzatura of the localsā€¦you have poise, grace and style - without trying too hard.
As you put down your cup of coffee, your eyes catch the sparkles of the Mediterranean reflecting the sun rays - as they do for most of the year in this part of the world. Your view could just as easily include the ancient villa of a Roman emperor in Capri, a Hollywood superstar inconspicuously walking along the Croisette in Cannes, or passionate flamenco dancers in their extravagant dresses during the Feria de Sevilla.Ā 
RIVIERA
From a distance you hear sounds that you canā€™t quite distinguish, among the lulling of the wavesā€¦is it the melodic sounds of Paco de Luciaā€™s guitar, or the murmur of paparazzi at the Venice Film Festivalā€¦or could it be the Formula 1 race cars revving their engines for the first practice session at the Monaco Grand Prix? This is the art of living, this is the RIVIERAā€¦but is it the French, Italian or Spanish riviera? Youā€™d be forgiven if you didnā€™t immediately find the distinction. Maybe youā€™ll take inspiration from the countless cult films that have embraced the RIVIERA aesthetic - like the Talented Mr. Ripley thatā€™s forever bonded with the cliffs of Positano and the mystical islands of Ischia and Procida, or Hitchcockā€™s legendary To Catch A Thief that lustfully uses Cannes and Villefranche-sur-Mer as the filmā€™s backdrop.Ā 
Maybe you too will become forever connected to the RIVIERA region by using its laid back aesthetic in your own storyā€¦and leaving a legacy that generations will follow.
Over the years, Europe has given the world gems in the form of rebellious French (La Nouvelle Vague) cinema, lucid Italian fashion, and pulsating German techno - to name just a few. Europeā€™s many visionary creatives that broke the rules of time and preconceived notions.
European Allure
But what exactly is "New Europe"? It's a movement that's about embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down borders. It's about recognizing a new generation of creatives that are unafraid to explore the intersection of different cultures and identities. And who better to represent this movement than Third Culture Kids - those who have grown up with multiple cultural influences, with distinct, nuanced perspectives allowing them to tell more authentic stories and bridge the communication gap across cultures. These creatives are the heart and soul of Force Majeure, bringing their unique points of view and experiences to the forefront of their creative craft.
**FORCE MAJEURE**: Force Majeure, derived from French, translates to "superior force" - and that's exactly what it represents in the creative world. It's the unstoppable energy that fuels innovative ideas and propels us to push past the limits of what's been done before. It's the lightning bolt that strikes when we least expect it, shocking and upending the status quo.
Over the years, Europe has given the world gems in the form of rebellious French (La Nouvelle Vague) cinema, lucid Italian fashion, and pulsating German techno - to name just a few. Europeā€™s many visionary creatives that broke the rules of time and preconceived notions.
European Allure
ABOUT
But what exactly is "New Europe"? It's a movement that's about embracing diversity, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down borders. It's about recognizing a new generation of creatives that are unafraid to explore the intersection of different cultures and identities.
And who better to represent this movement than Third Culture Kids - those who have grown up with multiple cultural influences, with distinct, nuanced perspectives allowing them to tell more authentic stories and bridge the communication gap across cultures. These creatives are the heart and soul of Force Majeure, bringing their unique points of view and experiences to the forefront of their creative craft.
**FORCE MAJEURE**: Force Majeure, derived from French, translates to "superior force" - and that's exactly what it represents in the creative world. It's the unstoppable energy that fuels innovative ideas and propels us to push past the limits of what's been done before. It's the lightning bolt that strikes when we least expect it, shocking and upending the status quo.
The engine of your classic European car hums happily, as it leads you along sharp hairpin curves towards the Alpine bliss of MĆ©gĆØve, Chamonix, Gstaad or St Moritz. These paths were once tread by the armies of legendary commanders Napoleon and Suvorov. The Swiss watch on your wrist ticks excitedly as it feels itself at home among the dramatic snow capped peaks and valleys that gave the world horological excellence.
The low temperatures and high altitude are balanced by the sweet smell of warm mulled wine, and the murmur of locals by the fireplace discussing Winter Olympiads of a bygone eraā€¦The rush of the international jetset as they crowd the frozen lake that instantly becomes a pilgrimage site for the polo aficionados.
ALPINE
The sleepy huts of isolated Alpine villages that gave us some of the worldā€™s finest cheeses, are a wonderful segway into the Danube, which along with the Rhine finds its source right in the Alps. The Danube seductively leads you to some of the most important and beautiful cultural capitalsā€¦Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade - and everything in between. A treat for all of your senses, you are spoiled for choice: world renowned operas, a taste of Sacher torte, bath houses used by powerful monarchs, brutalist monuments right out of a sci-fi novel, the lights and joy of rustic Christmas markets and the squeak of snow beneath the wheels of antique carriages. Maybe you too will find love here, just as Ethan Hawkeā€™s character did in Before Sunrise.
For this reason, donā€™t be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to Adrien Brody in a local cafĆ© or bumping into Edward Norton at the Nikola Tesla Museum. A little bit of Paris in CafĆ© Gerbeaud, followed by Gropiusā€™ and Kandinskyā€™s Bauhaus. Eclecticism.
The ALPINE region lies at the intersection of East and West. It is the meeting point of Islam and Christianity, Communism and Capitalism, the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian empires, and many other opposing worldviewsā€¦that sometimes clash and sometimes embrace in this part of the world. Its ability to transform allowed for diverse films across periods - from Cyrano de Bergerac, Evita, to Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Spy Game with Robert Redford.
The engine of your classic European car hums happily, as it leads you along sharp hairpin curves towards the Alpine bliss of MĆ©gĆØve, Chamonix, Gstaad or St Moritz. These paths were once tread by the armies of legendary commanders Napoleon and Suvorov. The Swiss watch on your wrist ticks excitedly as it feels itself at home among the dramatic snow capped peaks and valleys that gave the world horological excellence.
The low temperatures and high altitude are balanced by the sweet smell of warm mulled wine, and the murmur of locals by the fireplace discussing Winter Olympiads of a bygone eraā€¦The rush of the international jetset as they crowd the frozen lake that instantly becomes a pilgrimage site for the polo aficionados.
ALPINE
The sleepy huts of isolated Alpine villages that gave us some of the worldā€™s finest cheeses, are a wonderful segway into the Danube, which along with the Rhine finds its source right in the Alps. The Danube seductively leads you to some of the most important and beautiful cultural capitalsā€¦Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade - and everything in between. A treat for all of your senses, you are spoiled for choice: world renowned operas, a taste of Sacher torte, bath houses used by powerful monarchs, brutalist monuments right out of a sci-fi novel, the lights and joy of rustic Christmas markets and the squeak of snow beneath the wheels of antique carriages. Maybe you too will find love here, just as Ethan Hawkeā€™s character did in Before Sunrise.
For this reason, donā€™t be surprised if you find yourself sitting next to Adrien Brody in a local cafĆ© or bumping into Edward Norton at the Nikola Tesla Museum. A little bit of Paris in CafĆ© Gerbeaud, followed by Gropiusā€™ and Kandinskyā€™s Bauhaus. Eclecticism.
The ALPINE region lies at the intersection of East and West. It is the meeting point of Islam and Christianity, Communism and Capitalism, the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian empires, and many other opposing worldviewsā€¦that sometimes clash and sometimes embrace in this part of the world. Its ability to transform allowed for diverse films across periods - from Cyrano de Bergerac, Evita, to Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and Spy Game with Robert Redford.
As you lift your gaze to the sky, you are greeted by a strange phenomenon that transports you to a mystical fantasy realm. Youā€™re looking at the mysterious Northern Lights. Surrounded by Norwegian fjords, Icelandic volcanoes, Swedish archipelagos, Finnish lakes and Danish beaches - you sense that this is the place where fairytales and reality become one.
Indeed, itā€™s no coincidence that the gates of the Atlantic are guarded by Hans Christian Andersenā€™s Little Mermaid. All around you is sleek design and elegant minimalism. People walking past you in the streets are the descendants of Vikings & Valkyries - wearing authentic woolen cardigans, gracious faces bathed with Atlantic freshness.
NORDIC
The Nordic Region is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes that are among the most beautiful and dramatic in the worldā€¦but could just as well double for a completely different planet. Sometimes itā€™s difficult to decide whether to seek adventure or to discover the true meaning of "hygge," the Nordic concept of coziness and contentment, forget about everything but still be present like never before. You may, however, find yourself enjoying the sensory overload offered by the Midsommar festival - where colours, music and flowers abound. Dance and bond with friends and strangers alike, while the smell of fresh flowers and strawberries fills the air around you. Midsommar celebrates the summer solstice, renewed life and love - and it just might inspire a new creativity within you.
And while on the topic of creativity, the region has given the world a lot in terms of culture and film locations. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was filmed in Stockholm, Lapland Odyssey in Rovaniemi, Finland, and the Game of Thrones used Iceland as one of its backdrops. On the music side, Justin Bieber found his serene tranquility in Iceland that was brought to life in his music video Iā€™ll Show You. So whether you want cozy and idyllic winter sequences, or striking natural scenery - the NORDIC region awaits you.
As you lift your gaze to the sky, you are greeted by a strange phenomenon that transports you to a mystical fantasy realm. Youā€™re looking at the mysterious Northern Lights. Surrounded by Norwegian fjords, Icelandic volcanoes, Swedish archipelagos, Finnish lakes and Danish beaches - you sense that this is the place where fairytales and reality become one.
Indeed, itā€™s no coincidence that the gates of the Atlantic are guarded by Hans Christian Andersenā€™s Little Mermaid. All around you is sleek design and elegant minimalism. People walking past you in the streets are the descendants of Vikings & Valkyries - wearing authentic woolen cardigans, gracious faces bathed with Atlantic freshness.
NORDIC
The Nordic Region is a place like no other, with breathtaking landscapes that are among the most beautiful and dramatic in the worldā€¦but could just as well double for a completely different planet. Sometimes itā€™s difficult to decide whether to seek adventure or to discover the true meaning of "hygge," the Nordic concept of coziness and contentment, forget about everything but still be present like never before. You may, however, find yourself enjoying the sensory overload offered by the Midsommar festival - where colours, music and flowers abound. Dance and bond with friends and strangers alike, while the smell of fresh flowers and strawberries fills the air around you. Midsommar celebrates the summer solstice, renewed life and love - and it just might inspire a new creativity within you.
And while on the topic of creativity, the region has given the world a lot in terms of culture and film locations. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was filmed in Stockholm, Lapland Odyssey in Rovaniemi, Finland, and the Game of Thrones used Iceland as one of its backdrops. On the music side, Justin Bieber found his serene tranquility in Iceland that was brought to life in his music video Iā€™ll Show You. So whether you want cozy and idyllic winter sequences, or striking natural scenery - the NORDIC region awaits you.
The gentle waves awake you as the renowned glistening white walls of Dubrovnik come into view. You pick up the faint scents of olive oil, salt and truffles - while listening to the soothing dalmatian chansons of Oliver Dragojevic and Teresa Kesovija coming through the speakers. Indeed, you are in the Adriatic Region - a magical area where history and the present blend into perfect harmony.
You donā€™t even remember how you came to be in this predicament - are you dreaming or are you actually here? Then it hits youā€¦you have a condition that the locals have warned you about: you have the fjaka. It is the state of being where you are semi-conscious and aspire for nothing, content to just be and survive the hot summer months.
ADRIATIC
Lost among cathedrals adorned with Venetian Lions of St Mark, pacing smooth pavements that resist time, you hear electronic beats of one of the many music festivals that lighten up the coast - and instantly you feel like a time traveler gliding across time periods. Whether on the fortified walls of Europeā€™s sunniest island - Hvar, or in the catacombs of Diocletianā€™s Palace in Split - the feeling remains the same: freedom and nostalgia. Youā€™re a stranger here, only if you insist on being one. From the coast, littered with picturesque towns, charming architecture and vivid colours - you may decide to venture inland, to a place like Sarajevo - Europeā€™s Jerusalem. A melting pot of cultures - you may find yourself walking the streets of the Ottoman bazaar known as Bascarija, while observing the locals exchanging jokes over strong Turkish coffee. A city that perfectly reflects the regionā€™s rich religious and cultural heritage - where religions and cultures have coexisted in relative harmony. The region bears its beauty and its past with pride.
For all of its eclecticism and diversity, this region has become a hotspot for all types of content. The Bond franchise found its home for Casino Royale in the wild and authentic Montenegro. From the recent Game of Thrones series and Star Wars: The Last Jedi, to the older films Titus with Anthony Hopkins or Jacques Cousteauā€™s Odyssey - the ADRIATIC region has played itself, other parts of the world and even other worlds entirely. Now you can continue the legacy.
The gentle waves awake you as the renowned glistening white walls of Dubrovnik come into view. You pick up the faint scents of olive oil, salt and truffles - while listening to the soothing dalmatian chansons of Oliver Dragojevic and Teresa Kesovija coming through the speakers. Indeed, you are in the Adriatic Region - a magical area where history and the present blend into perfect harmony.
You donā€™t even remember how you came to be in this predicament - are you dreaming or are you actually here? Then it hits youā€¦you have a condition that the locals have warned you about: you have the fjaka. It is the state of being where you are semi-conscious and aspire for nothing, content to just be and survive the hot summer months.
ADRIATIC
Lost among cathedrals adorned with Venetian Lions of St Mark, pacing smooth pavements that resist time, you hear electronic beats of one of the many music festivals that lighten up the coast - and instantly you feel like a time traveler gliding across time periods. Whether on the fortified walls of Europeā€™s sunniest island - Hvar, or in the catacombs of Diocletianā€™s Palace in Split - the feeling remains the same: freedom and nostalgia. Youā€™re a stranger here, only if you insist on being one. From the coast, littered with picturesque towns, charming architecture and vivid colours - you may decide to venture inland, to a place like Sarajevo - Europeā€™s Jerusalem. A melting pot of cultures - you may find yourself walking the streets of the Ottoman bazaar known as Bascarija, while observing the locals exchanging jokes over strong Turkish coffee. A city that perfectly reflects the regionā€™s rich religious and cultural heritage - where religions and cultures have coexisted in relative harmony. The region bears its beauty and its past with pride.
For all of its eclecticism and diversity, this region has become a hotspot for all types of content. The Bond franchise found its home for Casino Royale in the wild and authentic Montenegro. From the recent Game of Thrones series and Star Wars: The Last Jedi, to the older films Titus with Anthony Hopkins or Jacques Cousteauā€™s Odyssey - the ADRIATIC region has played itself, other parts of the world and even other worlds entirely. Now you can continue the legacy.
Director at Force Majeure
BĆ”rbara Ochoa is a graduate of Universidad AutĆ³noma of Madrid as a Master of Screenwriting for film, television and dramaturgy, and from Centro de CapacitaciĆ³n CinematogrĆ”fica in MĆ©xico in Film Directing. She was selected for the CaƱonazo transmedia workshop in 2021 for creating transmedia projects and branded content.
Since 2021, she has been a creative collaborator in VOLANDO VENGO MOVIE THINKING, and she teaches screenwriting, storyline development, and direction of actors and natural actors in ESCINE, ARTE 7, SAE in Mexico and TAI in Madrid.
She wrote and directed more than 15 short films, including Reminiscencias 2008 y Marea Alta 2010. In 2015 she created Atlantida Cine and directed her first feature film Time without Pulse supported by FOPROCINE of Instituto Mexicano de Cinematografƭa (IMCINE). In 2021 she received a production grant from IMCINE for her second feature film Maria MontaƱa.
BƔrbara Ochoa
Director at Force Majeure
BĆ”rbara Ochoa is a graduate of Universidad AutĆ³noma of Madrid as a Master of Screenwriting for film, television and dramaturgy, and from Centro de CapacitaciĆ³n CinematogrĆ”fica in MĆ©xico in Film Directing. She was selected for the CaƱonazo transmedia workshop in 2021 for creating transmedia projects and branded content.
Since 2021, she has been a creative collaborator in VOLANDO VENGO MOVIE THINKING, and she teaches screenwriting, storyline development, and direction of actors and natural actors in ESCINE, ARTE 7, SAE in Mexico and TAI in Madrid.
She wrote and directed more than 15 short films, including Reminiscencias 2008 y Marea Alta 2010. In 2015 she created Atlantida Cine and directed her first feature film Time without Pulse supported by FOPROCINE of Instituto Mexicano de Cinematografƭa (IMCINE). In 2021 she received a production grant from IMCINE for her second feature film Maria MontaƱa.
BƔrbara Ochoa
Director at Force Majeure
Emma Benestan is a French-Algerian director, screenwriter and editor.
Emma Benestan has also worked as an editor on feature films, such as "Mektoub my love" by Abdellatif Kechiche (Venice 2017). She has also been involved on numerous projects as screenwriter, including "The Right Words" which premiered in Competition at Cannes Film Festival 2021.
After graduating from La FĆ©mis, she directed several short films : ā€œUn monde sans bĆŖte" (Clermont Ferrand 2018), "GoĆ»t bacon"(70 festival selections and shortlisted for the French Academy Awards) and "Belle Gueule" (60 festival selections, winner of the CNC quality award). In her first feature film "Fragile", she hijacks the traditional codes of comedy with a joyfully feminist take on contemporary masculinity. The film was released in theatres in 2021 and received critical acclaim.
Emma Benestan
Director at Force Majeure
Emma Benestan is a French-Algerian director, screenwriter and editor.
Emma Benestan has also worked as an editor on feature films, such as "Mektoub my love" by Abdellatif Kechiche (Venice 2017). She has also been involved on numerous projects as screenwriter, including "The Right Words" which premiered in Competition at Cannes Film Festival 2021.
After graduating from La FĆ©mis, she directed several short films : ā€œUn monde sans bĆŖte" (Clermont Ferrand 2018), "GoĆ»t bacon"(70 festival selections and shortlisted for the French Academy Awards) and "Belle Gueule" (60 festival selections, winner of the CNC quality award). In her first feature film "Fragile", she hijacks the traditional codes of comedy with a joyfully feminist take on contemporary masculinity. The film was released in theatres in 2021 and received critical acclaim.
Emma Benestan
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Brian Tolleson
Advisor at Force Majeure
Brian Tolleson has been a VP of Creative and Marketing, Creative Director, and an Executive Producer at various networks at MTV Networks in NYC, part of media giant Viacom. He has created over 100 hours of television for the MTVN group of networks.
He was responsible for the creative pitch and creation of the brand, the brand strategy, and the successful greenlight and launch of Logo, the first-ever 24-7-365 channel for LGBT Americans. Previous to MTVN, Brian ran Naked Eye Films, a branding and production company, serving diverse clients such as Kraft, General Mills, Warner Brothers, Turner Entertainment, CNN, Nick and WWF. Brian began his career in Los Angeles at world-famous talent agency Creative Artists Agency and continued as a story editor at Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Entertainment, working for Multi-Academy Award Winning Producer Douglas Wick. He graduated from Emory University with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Biology and holds his Master of Public Health from Rollins School of Public Health at Emory as well.
Brianā€™s work as a creative, a content strategist, a producer and a director have been honored by the Clios, Cannes Lions, Promax, BDA, AIGA, CTAM, The Tellys, The Ad Club and numerous film festivals and industry organizations. He received a 2009 Emmy Nomination for Best Promotional Campaign and his creative and strategic work on Kathy Griffinā€™s album received a 2009 Grammy Nomination as well.
Brian Tolleson
Advisor at Force Majeure
Brian Tolleson has been a VP of Creative and Marketing, Creative Director, and an Executive Producer at various networks at MTV Networks in NYC, part of media giant Viacom. He has created over 100 hours of television for the MTVN group of networks.
He was responsible for the creative pitch and creation of the brand, the brand strategy, and the successful greenlight and launch of Logo, the first-ever 24-7-365 channel for LGBT Americans. Previous to MTVN, Brian ran Naked Eye Films, a branding and production company, serving diverse clients such as Kraft, General Mills, Warner Brothers, Turner Entertainment, CNN, Nick and WWF. Brian began his career in Los Angeles at world-famous talent agency Creative Artists Agency and continued as a story editor at Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Entertainment, working for Multi-Academy Award Winning Producer Douglas Wick. He graduated from Emory University with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Biology and holds his Master of Public Health from Rollins School of Public Health at Emory as well.
Brianā€™s work as a creative, a content strategist, a producer and a director have been honored by the Clios, Cannes Lions, Promax, BDA, AIGA, CTAM, The Tellys, The Ad Club and numerous film festivals and industry organizations. He received a 2009 Emmy Nomination for Best Promotional Campaign and his creative and strategic work on Kathy Griffinā€™s album received a 2009 Grammy Nomination as well.
Head of Production at Force Majeure
Milan has developed his expertise managing production operations of some of the biggest productions to film in Serbia & the broader region.
Having a broad cross-departmental experience, including leading the Location department, Production Accounting and Production Management, Milan has been a crucial component for Serbiaā€™s biggest service production company due to his versatility and quiet professionalism. As such, he has experience with both small commercial shoots and huge, complex blockbuster features. Some of his credits include: Knives Out: Glass Onion (2022), Hellraiser (2022), Crawl (2019), Anna (2019) - as well as titles coming soon, such as Our Man From Jersey and True Haunting (2023).
Milan Maksimovic
Head of Production at Force Majeure
Milan has developed his expertise managing production operations of some of the biggest productions to film in Serbia & the broader region.
Having a broad cross-departmental experience, including leading the Location department, Production Accounting and Production Management, Milan has been a crucial component for Serbiaā€™s biggest service production company due to his versatility and quiet professionalism. As such, he has experience with both small commercial shoots and huge, complex blockbuster features. Some of his credits include: Knives Out: Glass Onion (2022), Hellraiser (2022), Crawl (2019), Anna (2019) - as well as titles coming soon, such as Our Man From Jersey and True Haunting (2023).
Milan Maksimovic
Producer (TV/Film) at Force Majeure
Hrisheek Panchmatia, born and raised in Hong Kong, specialized in Economics and Finance and worked at high profile firms such as HSBC before transitioning into the film industry.
Since then, Hrisheek has become a producer based between Hong Kong, Monaco, and Los Angeles, where he is producing and lending his expertise on several projects: notably ā€˜The Runnerā€™ and ā€˜Get Lostā€™. He also acted as an associate producer for the short film M.A.D directed by Leticia Belliccini, whose previous film screened at the Tribeca Film Festival. He is currently working with Ella Travoltaā€™s company Bleu Films, LLC. as her producing partner as well as producing the television series ā€˜Relentlessā€™ based on the New York Times Bestseller of the same name with Force Majeure. He is producing the feature film ā€˜The Affairs of LĆ©onardā€™ with Greca Entertainment.
Hrisheek Panchmatia
Producer (TV/Film) at Force Majeure
Hrisheek Panchmatia, born and raised in Hong Kong, specialized in Economics and Finance and worked at high profile firms such as HSBC before transitioning into the film industry.
Since then, Hrisheek has become a producer based between Hong Kong, Monaco, and Los Angeles, where he is producing and lending his expertise on several projects: notably ā€˜The Runnerā€™ and ā€˜Get Lostā€™. He also acted as an associate producer for the short film M.A.D directed by Leticia Belliccini, whose previous film screened at the Tribeca Film Festival. He is currently working with Ella Travoltaā€™s company Bleu Films, LLC. as her producing partner as well as producing the television series ā€˜Relentlessā€™ based on the New York Times Bestseller of the same name with Force Majeure. He is producing the feature film ā€˜The Affairs of LĆ©onardā€™ with Greca Entertainment.
Hrisheek Panchmatia
Creative Executive at Force Majeure
After completing her studies in Communication and Comparative Literature at Sorbonne Paris IV, Tatiana pursued a Master's degree in International Relations at IRIS.
Building upon her acquired skills, she embarked on her professional journey as a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) manager, showcasing her dedication to promoting social responsibility in the business realm. Later, she excelled as a consultant at Istrat, an economic intelligence firm, where she applied her analytical and writing abilities to strategic monitoring in the fields of politics and geopolitics. Driven by her passion for cinema, Tatiana chose to specialize in screenplay writing by undertaking an advanced Master's program at the Instituto del Cine de Madrid. This training nurtured her talent as a Script Doctor, allowing her to contribute her expertise in enhancing and perfecting scripts. Fluent in three languagesā€”English, French, and Spanish-she effortlessly operates within an international context.
Tatiana Djordjevic
Her career path led her to join the emerging spanish production company, MagĆ¼, where she actively engages in content development for television. For the past year, she has been an integral part of the Force Majeure team, working closely with its founder, Dario Kirola, to develop diverse internationally-oriented projects and contribute to the creation and execution of promising content for both film and television industries.
Creative Executive at Force Majeure
After completing her studies in Communication and Comparative Literature at Sorbonne Paris IV, Tatiana pursued a Master's degree in International Relations at IRIS.
Building upon her acquired skills, she embarked on her professional journey as a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) manager, showcasing her dedication to promoting social responsibility in the business realm. Later, she excelled as a consultant at Istrat, an economic intelligence firm, where she applied her analytical and writing abilities to strategic monitoring in the fields of politics and geopolitics. Driven by her passion for cinema, Tatiana chose to specialize in screenplay writing by undertaking an advanced Master's program at the Instituto del Cine de Madrid. This training nurtured her talent as a Script Doctor, allowing her to contribute her expertise in enhancing and perfecting scripts. Fluent in three languagesā€”English, French, and Spanish-she effortlessly operates within an international context.
Tatiana Djordjevic
Her career path led her to join the emerging spanish production company, MagĆ¼, where she actively engages in content development for television. For the past year, she has been an integral part of the Force Majeure team, working closely with its founder, Dario Kirola, to develop diverse internationally-oriented projects and contribute to the creation and execution of promising content for both film and television industries.
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Masha Zhemchuzhina
Director at Force Majeure
Masha Zhemchuzhina is a film director and creative director. Her journey in the creative realm began with International Journalism studies at the Saint Petersburg State University, followed by a degree in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, and culminating with an additional diploma from the Art School.
Over the past decade, Zhemchuzhina's career has been a whirlwind of achievements and global collaborations. She has directed over 100 projects across a range of locations including Russia, Spain, Finland, Norway, France, Italy, Germany, the UAE, Kazakhstan, and the USA. Her dynamic work has caught the attention of major music labels like Universal Music, Warner Music, Meladze Music, Musica 36 and many others - leading to regular collaborations.
Zhemchuzhina's portfolio includes projects for high-profile brands such as KFC, Nike, Cockta, Microsoft, Xbox, Clarins, and Yandex. Her unique vision and creative flair have brought these brands' stories to life in a compelling and memorable way. In short, she really loves what she does.
Masha Zhemchuzhina
Director at Force Majeure
Masha Zhemchuzhina is a film director and creative director. Her journey in the creative realm began with International Journalism studies at the Saint Petersburg State University, followed by a degree in Filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, and culminating with an additional diploma from the Art School.
Over the past decade, Zhemchuzhina's career has been a whirlwind of achievements and global collaborations. She has directed over 100 projects across a range of locations including Russia, Spain, Finland, Norway, France, Italy, Germany, the UAE, Kazakhstan, and the USA. Her dynamic work has caught the attention of major music labels like Universal Music, Warner Music, Meladze Music, Musica 36 and many others - leading to regular collaborations.
Zhemchuzhina's portfolio includes projects for high-profile brands such as KFC, Nike, Cockta, Microsoft, Xbox, Clarins, and Yandex. Her unique vision and creative flair have brought these brands' stories to life in a compelling and memorable way. In short, she really loves what she does.
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Vittoria Rizzardi PeƱalosa
Director at Force Majeure
After moving to London to attend Law School, Vittoria graduated in 2017 with an LLB in Law at City University. In that same year she moved to the USA to attend the MFA degree in screenwriting at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Vittoriaā€™s scripts were finalists in several screenplay contests such as Sundance Episodic LAB, Blue Cat, and The Launch. Her directorial work has screened at prestigious venues across the world including the MAXXI Museum of Modern Art in Rome, Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, and the VIFF centre in Vancouver.
Her films have premiered on platforms such as My Movies and Minute Shorts, while being recognised in Oscar-qualifying film festivals including the HBO film festival in Palms Springs, LA International Shorts Film Festival, and the Vancouver International Film Festival. Her feature film in development titled ā€œIt burnsā€, a coming-of-age psychological-thriller, was selected at the Venice Biennale College Cinema 2023 along with only six other projects. Vittoria has directed music videos for musicians between Milan, London, and Amsterdam as well as campaigns for Barbour, Swaroski, Cirque Du Soleil, and LE MILE magazine.
Vittoria Rizzardi PeƱalosa
Director at Force Majeure
After moving to London to attend Law School, Vittoria graduated in 2017 with an LLB in Law at City University. In that same year she moved to the USA to attend the MFA degree in screenwriting at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Vittoriaā€™s scripts were finalists in several screenplay contests such as Sundance Episodic LAB, Blue Cat, and The Launch. Her directorial work has screened at prestigious venues across the world including the MAXXI Museum of Modern Art in Rome, Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, and the VIFF centre in Vancouver.
Her films have premiered on platforms such as My Movies and Minute Shorts, while being recognised in Oscar-qualifying film festivals including the HBO film festival in Palms Springs, LA International Shorts Film Festival, and the Vancouver International Film Festival. Her feature film in development titled ā€œIt burnsā€, a coming-of-age psychological-thriller, was selected at the Venice Biennale College Cinema 2023 along with only six other projects. Vittoria has directed music videos for musicians between Milan, London, and Amsterdam as well as campaigns for Barbour, Swaroski, Cirque Du Soleil, and LE MILE magazine.
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ADAM MORSE
Director at Force Majeure
Adam Morse is a British-born actor/writer/director/ producer based in London and is the worldā€™s first award-winning blind filmmaker to be celebrated in Hollywood. Adam lost most of his eyesight at the age of nineteen in 2009 when he was diagnosed with the incurable mitochondrial disease LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy). Since then, Adam has gone against all odds to break boundaries in the entertainment business by becoming an industry trailblazer for other differently-abled artists.
Morseā€™s feature debut as writer/director ā€˜LUCIDā€™ (starring Billy Zane), was released on Amazon in 2020, and it was nominated for the prestigious "Michael Powel Award" at the Edinburgh Film Festival and went on to win "Best Director" at the GOLD MOVIE AWARDS in London. Adam has also made headlines by becoming a ā€œBLIND ACTION STARā€ (New York Post) after appearing in a recurring role on the APPLE+ series "SEE" (starring Jason Momoa), where he performed his own stunts on screen. Adam became the first blind model to walk the runway at London Fashion Week 2022. Morse is writing a self-help/memoir book describing his experiences overcoming blindness and inspiring readers to adopt a positive mentality for success. Morse recently founded the non-profit organization Crystal Vision Foundation to support blind artists in film/TV. Adam has gone from keeping his blindness a secret in the industry, to now being extremely candid about his condition and sharing his unique journey through public speaking with live talks on big stages such as DUBAI EXPO 2020, Cannes Film Festival, META ENTERTAINMENT WORLD SUMMIT, and GREENWICH UNIVERSITY to name a few.
Morse has been prolific in directing advertisement films with stunning end products for major high-end brands such as GOOGLE, PUMA, MCLAREN, GSK, and others. Adam again challenged disability stigma as an actor with his recent critically acclaimed performance in the psychological drama ā€˜SUPPRESSIONā€™ where he plays a fully sighted character. Adam is developing a slate of movie/TV projects with his production company HOLLYFIELD PRODUCTIONS and is attached to direct a number of feature films, including Sci-Fi Comedy ā€˜CHANNEL THREE BILLIONā€™ being produced by RADAR PICTURES. Morse is currently being considered for BAFTA ā€˜BREAKTHROUGH BRITā€™ and is also now working as an ambassador for the RNIB (ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTION for the BLIND).
Adamā€™s recent Super Bowl 2024 commercial success for Google, played just before the halftime show and caused an emotional reaction from all those who saw it, with 50 million views on YouTube. The New York Times named it best of the bunch. Ad Age ranked it in their top five of the event. USA today said it was the most heartfelt commercial film ever seen at the Super Bowl. PEOPLE Magazine highlighted it as one of the top spots. Morse is fast cornering the market as one of the most exciting differently-abled talents on the planet.
ADAM MORSE
Director at Force Majeure
Adam Morse is a British-born actor/writer/director/ producer based in London and is the worldā€™s first award-winning blind filmmaker to be celebrated in Hollywood. Adam lost most of his eyesight at the age of nineteen in 2009 when he was diagnosed with the incurable mitochondrial disease LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy). Since then, Adam has gone against all odds to break boundaries in the entertainment business by becoming an industry trailblazer for other differently-abled artists.
Morseā€™s feature debut as writer/director ā€˜LUCIDā€™ (starring Billy Zane), was released on Amazon in 2020, and it was nominated for the prestigious "Michael Powel Award" at the Edinburgh Film Festival and went on to win "Best Director" at the GOLD MOVIE AWARDS in London. Adam has also made headlines by becoming a ā€œBLIND ACTION STARā€ (New York Post) after appearing in a recurring role on the APPLE+ series "SEE" (starring Jason Momoa), where he performed his own stunts on screen. Adam became the first blind model to walk the runway at London Fashion Week 2022. Morse is writing a self-help/memoir book describing his experiences overcoming blindness and inspiring readers to adopt a positive mentality for success. Morse recently founded the non-profit organization Crystal Vision Foundation to support blind artists in film/TV. Adam has gone from keeping his blindness a secret in the industry, to now being extremely candid about his condition and sharing his unique journey through public speaking with live talks on big stages such as DUBAI EXPO 2020, Cannes Film Festival, META ENTERTAINMENT WORLD SUMMIT, and GREENWICH UNIVERSITY to name a few.
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Morse has been prolific in directing advertisement films with stunning end products for major high-end brands such as GOOGLE, PUMA, MCLAREN, GSK, and others. Adam again challenged disability stigma as an actor with his recent critically acclaimed performance in the psychological drama ā€˜SUPPRESSIONā€™ where he plays a fully sighted character. Adam is developing a slate of movie/TV projects with his production company HOLLYFIELD PRODUCTIONS and is attached to direct a number of feature films, including Sci-Fi Comedy ā€˜CHANNEL THREE BILLIONā€™ being produced by RADAR PICTURES. Morse is currently being considered for BAFTA ā€˜BREAKTHROUGH BRITā€™ and is also now working as an ambassador for the RNIB (ROYAL NATIONAL INSTITUTION for the BLIND).
Adamā€™s recent Super Bowl 2024 commercial success for Google, played just before the halftime show and caused an emotional reaction from all those who saw it, with 50 million views on YouTube. The New York Times named it best of the bunch. Ad Age ranked it in their top five of the event. USA today said it was the most heartfelt commercial film ever seen at the Super Bowl. PEOPLE Magazine highlighted it as one of the top spots. Morse is fast cornering the market as one of the most exciting differently-abled talents on the planet.

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