Louis Ponesse

Louis Ponesse Jr. is a dedicated filmmaker, writer, and educator driven by an unwavering passion for storytelling and innovation in cinema. A graduate of Arizona State University, Louis earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Filmmaking Practices (2020) and Master of Applied Sciences in Film and Media Studies (2024) with academic honors, including a 4.0 GPA. His journey reflects a commitment to exploring the intersection of creativity, education, and the art of filmmaking, inspiring the next generation to embrace the transformative power of storytelling.

Louis’s work spans a variety of genres, from emotionally gripping dramas to edgy dark comedies, with each project reflecting his bold vision and fearless exploration of complex narratives. His films have earned recognition at festivals such as the South Film and Arts Academy Festival and Transparent Film Festival, and his professional experience includes working on notable productions like ABC's Home Economics, Starz's Blindspotting, and CBS's Big Brother. These experiences have not only refined his technical expertise but also deepened his understanding of the collaborative process essential to creating impactful films.
He is currently a Producer on an Emmy Nominated show called American Dream TV. 

As an educator, Louis brings his industry experience and artistic insights into the classroom, fostering a dynamic and engaging environment for students. He is passionate about equipping aspiring filmmakers with the tools and confidence to tell their own stories while emphasizing the importance of innovation and experimentation. Through his teaching at Arizona State University, Louis seeks to inspire students to view filmmaking as both an art form and a means of meaningful expression.

Now producing his first independent feature film, Louis remains deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of cinema and education. His work embodies a dual mission: to create thought-provoking films that challenge and captivate audiences, and to mentor future storytellers who will shape the evolving landscape of filmmaking. Louis Ponesse Jr. believes in the power of cinema to entertain, enlighten, and transform, and he is proud to contribute to this legacy through his work at ASU.