Brando Benetton is an Italian filmmaker whose writing and directing work spans both Europe and the United States. While attending Ithaca College, he was named by Variety in 2015 as one of the nation's “110 Students to Watch” in film. He later earned his MFA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
Over the course of his career, Benetton has directed award-winning TV pilots, feature films and large-scale live stunt shows for major European theme parks. Among his notable works is NIGHTFIRE, which he co-wrote, produced, and directed — a throwback spy thriller featuring an international cast led by Emmy nominee Dylan Baker. Filmed entirely in Italy, the project combines ambitious practical stunt work with a classic espionage sensibility. Following its nomination for Best Independent Pilot (Drama) at SeriesFest 2020, NIGHTFIRE premiered on Amazon Prime and Tubi.
Benetton recently made his feature directorial debut with THE GIRL IN THE RIVER, starring Emmy winner Tiffany Haddish, Devon Sawa, Maggie Grace and Emmy nominee Ralph Macchio (Cobra Kai). The detective thriller will be released theatrically and on digital platforms on September 4, 2026, via Samuel Goldwyn Films. Drawn to character-driven genre storytelling, Benetton's work blends large-scale action and suspense with emotionally grounded human drama.
P R E S S A R C H I V E
The Hollywood Reporter | Tiffany Haddish, Devon Sawa’s Thriller ‘The Girl in the River’ Gets Late Summer Release and Trailer
Variety | Education Impact Report: Benetton included among 110 Filmmaking Students to Watch
SeriesFest | ‘Nightfire’ - Director/Cast Q&A
Film Threat | ‘Nightfire’ Film Review
