Biography

Michael Thomas Determan - Founder, Determined Films

Michael Thomas Determan is an award-winning Director, Cinematographer, and Producer with nearly two decades of filmmaking experience. As the founder of Determined Films and a creative collaborator with Backyard Dream Studios, he has built a reputation for crafting visually striking and emotionally driven stories across feature films, documentaries, music videos, and branded content.

Michael's passion for filmmaking began early, sitting with his family and watching classic Westerns that sparked his imagination and inspired a lifelong love of cinema. That early fascination with storytelling on the screen grew into a career that now spans independent features, branded content, and documentary filmmaking. He learned everything about film through practical experience, gaining his expertise by working directly on sets and projects rather than in the classroom.

With a unique versatility behind the camera combined with a strong background in business and production management, Michael navigates both the creative and logistical sides of filmmaking with ease. His expertise also includes working with cutting-edge tools like volume walls, where he blends virtual production with cinematic storytelling.

In addition to his film work, Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance, Business Administration, and Human Resources, as well as a Master of Science in Management. This educational foundation strengthens his ability to manage productions efficiently while fostering creative collaboration.

Passionate about storytelling in all its forms, Michael is dedicated to collaborating with artists, businesses, and organizations to bring bold ideas to life on screen. Whether capturing intimate documentaries, high-energy music videos, or narrative films, his mission remains the same: to tell stories that connect.

When he is not on set, Michael is often developing new projects, from narrative films to documentary series, that reflect both his love for cinema and his curiosity about the human experience.
- IMDb mini biography by: Determined Films