James Duff’s extensive Los Angeles and New York Theater directing experience compliments his considerable film and African documentary experience.

James earned his MFA in directing from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, where he won a fellowship for excellence in directing actors. His award- winning short film, “Life is a Sweet,” screened at over 40 festivals worldwide. His documentary, “The Cycle Also Rises,” was broadcast nationally on PBS as part of the POV series, and he spent two years in West Africa directing development and human rights documentaries. He has taught filmmaking in Kenya, to Saharawi refugees in the Sahara Desert, and at the Prague Film School in the Czech Republic. In the theatre, James has worked with New York companies such as Ensemble Studio Theatre, and has directed productions at such venues as The Cherry Lane Theatre and SoHo Playhouse, as well as the NYC International Fringe Festival. “Hank and Asha” is James’ feature film writing and directorial debut.

Writer, Producer, Editor of “Hank and Asha” (screened at over 50 festivals world-wide, with over 20 awards), won the Audience Award at the 2013 Slamdance Film Festival. It has since screened at over 50 festivals worldwide, and garnered more than 20 awards. The film was theatrically released in New York, Los Angeles, and other markets, and is currently available on DVD and online platforms (www.hankandasha.com).