The first time Joe Petrilla walked onto a film set he was starring opposite Oscar-winner Melissa Leo in a gritty independent drama that eventually premiered at Cannes. Not long after that he began “film school”, which consisted of writing and directing two short films that played at dozens of festivals, won some awards including best experimental short at the Rhode Island Int’l Film Festival, and were featured Staff Picks on Vimeo.
As a commercial director, Joe has made over 100 commercials for the HVAC industry (don’t ask why) including multiple ADDY award winning spots. He believes that even the most absurd premise should be grounded in truthful performance. He loves casting terrific actors and asking them to do ridiculous things with absolute commitment. A great sight gag and a good pun are two of his favorite things in life. He believes that concept is king, and enjoys writing almost as much as directing. Born on a mountain top in Tennessee, he now calls Southern California home.