Justin Casselle

Justin Casselle is a rising writer + director whose work as a former creative producer in advertising for brands such as McDonald's, Jeep, and Nintendo has surely been on your TV (it's totally fine if you clicked "skip ad" - I get it, I did the same). Thanks in large part to his adopted hometown of Chicago, Justin writes stories that are big-hearted, genre-bending, and sharp with social commentary, all through the lens of comedy. His short films, which have been official selections at film festivals such as the Austin Film Festival, New Orleans Film Festival, and Urbanworld Film Festival among many others, often mirror his preferred genre - stylized, elevated, half-hour dramadies that are big-hearted and full of left turns.

Also working in the commercial and music video space, Justin has directed one of the first ever comedy commercials for PETA along with the generational name-changing commercials for Aunt Jemima, now Pearl Milling Company, among many other brands. He's also directed for Grammy-nominated band Tank & The Bangas as well as written for shows and special events on VH1, Peacock, and Netflix. World-building, directing actors, and creating communally are all things Justin looks forward to behind the camera, especially when those working beside him feel equity and representation in front of it. A fan of a healthy craft service budget, Justin prefers his sets to be inclusive of all genders, cultures, and snacks.