Lights, camera, 2024! In a year where AI tried (and failed) to replace human creativity, a few directors reminded us why the magic of cinema still belongs to humans. These visionaries didn’t just make films—they crafted experiences that linger in your mind long after the credits roll. They pushed boundaries, stirred emotions, and, let’s be honest, made us all feel a little smarter for understanding those mind-bending plots.
In this listicle, we’re shining the spotlight on the top five directors who owned 2024. Whether they were redefining genres, tackling social issues with a fresh lens, or simply telling damn good stories, these filmmakers showed us that the director’s chair is still the best seat in the house.
So, grab your popcorn and prepare to meet the creative geniuses who turned 2024 into a cinematic masterpiece—one frame at a time.
Tao Zrafi
What do you need to become a pro mixologist? Mixing techniques, flavour balancing, and presentation skills are basic. To become an expert, loving your craft is a must, as it sparks creativity, innovation, and a constant urge to learn more. One such example is Tao Zrafi, the founder of Taology Hospitality Group. Balancing skill and passion for mixology, he continually explores and innovates, setting new standards in the art of crafting exceptional drinks.
Tao is not only a mixologist but also a creative director, consultant, and enthusiastic traveller. He owns the popular bar “No School Tomorrow,” known for its unique nostalgic ambiance and creative cocktails, making it the perfect place for memorable nights out. He plans to open more bars around the world with the same concept to share his unique vision and continue to offer amazing experiences and great drinks.
Tao’s Instagram page, “Traveling Bartenders,” gets global attention for its entertaining and educational content. Centred around his ‘Drink less but way better’ mantra, it reflects his 15 years of experience, posting educational content related to beverages and answering questions from fellow enthusiasts.
Not just that, he also offers consulting services to bar and restaurant owners seeking to stand out and gain an edge in their industry. Moreover, he is an avid traveller who goes around the world to explore, learn, and teach his followers in masterclasses and events.
His journey to prominence reached new heights when he emerged as a finalist on the Netflix show “Drink Masters” in 2022, solidifying his reputation as a master of mixology.
Looking ahead, Tao is gearing up to launch educational platforms, ready-to-drink bottled cocktails, and even a YouTube cocktail competition series. Through his passion and innovative spirit, Tao Zrafi will surely continue to inspire and elevate the world of mixology, shaping the future of the craft.
Kenneth Muller
In the sparkling lights of cinema, where dreams turn into reality and stories unfold, one name shines bright– Kenneth Muller. Hailing from the heart of Guatemala– he made his mark as one of the top directors in the film industry. He pursued his degree in Film and Animation with an aim to blow cinematic fire worldwide.
Kenneth’s feature film- “12 Seconds,” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and grabbed the gaze of entertainment giants like Fox. But his story doesn’t have limits; Netflix invited him to compete for the Netflix México Prize, and “12 Seconds” took the stage and became the first Central American film to premiere on the platform across 60 countries in multiple languages.
Then he gave another hit, “September,” based on his real-life events. The potential in this feature film crafted a path into academic curriculums at UCLA. It was also acquired by Netflix and released in three different regions– attracting people globally. Kenneth went on to direct two more feature films, “Nebaj” and “Gol de Plata.” He also dabbled in making music videos for both local and international artists, along with adding spice to corporate video gigs.
As the maestro of CH´AMAK ENTERTAINMENT, his latest short documentary, “ISA,” is celebrating success and has been selected at one of the top 10 festivals in the US. Kenneth Muller’s films have given voice to people dealing with tough situations and turned out to be big hits, earning awards at film festivals around the world.
Let’s step into Kenneth’s cinematic world, where he’s not just creating waves but making himself the star of the directorial universe.
Christin Baker
Director Christin Baker has redefined the cinematic storytelling of the lesbian and queer world as the founder and CEO of Tello Films (the ground-breaking LGBTQ+ streaming platform), which has produced top-notch affordable content for the last 16 years.
A trailblazer in the industry, she’s an Emmy-nominated producer/director who also happens to be the first lesbian-focused network to receive an Emmy award nomination. Variety magazine and National publications have acknowledged her extensive contributions to cinematic storytelling.
Her directorial success on “Maybelle” was recognised in 2016 as she won the award for best director at the London Raindance Film Festival. She helmed the genre’s very first LGBTIQ “Holiday Rom-com,” Season of Love’ charming critics worldwide.
Plus, as a member of the Television Academy of Arts & Sciences and the Producers Guild of America, her commitment to authentic representation and impactful storytelling is seriously impressive. Christin aims to become a top-tier female director, take Tello films to new heights, and champion the LGBTQ+ community.
So, join Christin Baker—the director who’s not just making movies but making history. It’s not a promo; it’s a front-row ticket to inspiration and change.
Marta Chierego
Introducing Marta Chierego, a trailblazing director who has broken through a largely male-dominated industry by focusing on stories that speak about both technological advancement and the power and wisdom of Nature, delivering thought-provoking narratives and channeling the raw emotion of each character she focuses on. Marta wears multiple hats in her profession, also serving as a writer, editor and executive producer.
Specializing in original documentaries, branded content and commercials, Marta has partnered with industry giants like Netflix, Google, Meta, World Economic Forum, Salesforce, The Center For Disease Prevention and Biomarin, as well as collaborations with Wharton, Harvard, Stanford, Oxford and Cambridge Universities. Her short form documentary The Fourth Industrial Revolution has received a Vimeo Staff Pick and premiered at SXSW Eco.
Having lived and traveled around the world for the past 20 years, Marta is particularly passionate about climate sustainability, planetary boundaries and technology used in harmony rather than conflict with Nature. At its core, her global experience promotes a unique point of view that integrates such synergies with the beauty of diverse human stories.
Currently, Marta is writing her first feature film, as well as a feature documentary about the future of societal structures and artificial intelligence in a post capitalist world. Her latest documentary ‘Your Web Reimagined’ is due to premiere in Spring 2024, exploring the promise of self sovereign identity, a decentralized technology that can revolutionize the internet and guarantee privacy and data ownership for every user.
Join Marta to get inspired by her work, and check her Instagram and website out.
Wesley Alley
Celebrated for directing A-list actors and garnering accolades at major film festivals, Wesley Alley stands as a beacon in the realm of top film directors. He’s not an average director; he’s a stellar producer and a writer, turning visions into vivid reality. Originating from the rugged landscapes of Idaho, Wesley’s ascent to success is nothing short of a remarkable saga pushed to the limits of with elbow grease and unimaginable work ethic.
He has directed films like SockMonster, Good Girl, Four Hour Layover in Juarez, Fleeced, and more, before his feature film debut The Voices. With films featured in countless festivals, this director knows how to grab attention with energetic action scenes, terrify with the most spine chilling scares, or knock you on the floor laughing with comedy. He has had films play festivals almost every year since 2016 earning him hundreds of festival plays, spots at premiere festivals, and an extensive collection of festival wins and trophies.
From national commercials to music videos and full-length movies, his versatility knows no bounds. Wesley’s brainchild, SockMonster Productions, is where the magic happens. It’s not just a production house; it’s a testament to Wesley’s creative and directive prowess, work ethic, and determination.
Every frame directed by Wesley Alley tells a story of dedication, expertise, and cinematic brilliance. Follow him on IMDB, Instagram, and Facebook, as he continues to shape the landscape of modern cinema.
Dianne is an adventurer who grew up traversing the globe, first through the pages of books, and then in reality. She lives the clichéd life of working at a cafe and writing. When she’s not surrounding herself with words you can find her visiting art musuems and historical places .Dianne lives in Boston.
