Andrew Gernhard

Andrew Gernhard is a prolific American filmmaker and producer whose creative vision has brought over 100 films to life across genres ranging from horror to heartwarming holiday tales. Born in Norwich, Connecticut, Gernhard graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1995 and earned a degree in Communication (Television Production) with a minor in Graphic Design from Southern Connecticut State University in 1999. In 2004, he founded Synthetic Cinema International, a Rocky Hill-based production company that has since become a powerhouse in made-for-TV movies, collaborating with major networks and studios like Hallmark, Netflix, Paramount, Disney, Lifetime and NBCUniversal.

Gernhard's versatility shines through his diverse filmography, which includes chilling thrillers like Animal (2014) and Dead Souls (2012), as well as festive favorites such as The Noel Diary (2022) and A Biltmore Christmas (2023). His productions have not only captivated audiences, but also achieved remarkable success; two of his 2023 films ranked as the highest-rated original TV movies across all cable networks that year. His ability to develop and craft compelling stories has earned him accolades, including the 2023 Joyce Resnikoff Tourism Award for bolstering Connecticut's film industry and economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite his global reach -- with recent projects filmed in locales like Fiji, Iceland, Finland, and Scotland -- Gernhard remains deeply rooted in his Connecticut community. In 2024, he was honored as the Norwich Native Son, a testament to his enduring connection to his hometown and its influence on his work ethic and storytelling.

As Synthetic Cinema International continues to grow, the company has expanded to include operations in Buffalo, New York, working closely with Buffalo FilmWorks -- home to the largest stages outside of Manhattan. This strategic partnership strengthens the East Coast production pipeline while offering access to top-tier facilities and local talent and crew. Looking ahead, Gernhard is steering the company toward additional international waters, with plans to film in exotic foreign locations that bring new depth and atmosphere to their storytelling.

Gernhard's journey from a passionate student to a celebrated filmmaker underscores his commitment to storytelling and his impact on the film industry.