About Verner
Verner Maldonado is a filmmaker who is as detailed as the bonsai trees he tries to nurture (yep, still alive and well!). A first-generation Guatemalan Director with roots that bring a compelling perspective with a dynamic visual style. Having recently completed his first indie feature, “Best Man Dead Man,” it premiered at Dances With Films and was acquired by Premier Entertainment. He is a well-rounded individual in his career, having been recognized by notable programs and organizations such as Ryan Murphy’s Half Initiative Mentee Program, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, Starz Diversity, and Viacom's Viewfinder finalist. Additionally, he is listed on the National Association of Latin Independent Producers (NALIP) for U.S.-based LatinX Directors to consider. His experience also blends with real-world film/TV productions as he directed splinter units for the blockbuster TV shows Michael Bay's“The Last Ship and, more recently, Damon Lindelof and Tara Hernandez's "Mrs. Davis," showcasing his versatility. His personal work has garnered accords such as the Grand Prize for his short film Swim along with Best Directing and Best Cinematography. Swim also has a view count of over 3+ million on YouTube and TikTok and a current non-exclusive license with CineSony for Unlimited runs for Domestic linear cable broadcasts as well as VOD streaming rights on the Sony Movie Channel. He’s also had honorable mentions and concept acquisitions with commercial companies such as PlayStation, Best Buy, and Haagen- Dazs. His approach to filmmaking is careful, thoughtful, and always engaging. Despite his coastal ties, from Los Angeles to Miami and back, Verner famously avoids the beach (too much sand). When not deep in the filmmaking process itself, Verner is often found with his head in a book, buried in nonstop movie binging, or ready to snack on some delicious chicken nuggets!
(He swears he is a fully grown adult.)
