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 films, commercials, 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 northern Italy, the project combines ambitious practical stunt work with a classic espionage sensibility. Following its nomination for Best Independent Pilot (Drama) at SeriesFest 2020, the film premiered on Amazon Prime and Tubi.
Most recently, Benetton completed principal photography on his feature directorial debut, “THE GIRL IN THE RIVER.” The film stars Emmy winner Tiffany Haddish (Girls Trip) and Emmy nominee Ralph Macchio (Cobra Kai) and is slated for release in 2026 through Samuel Goldwyn Films. Drawn to character-driven genre storytelling, Benetton's work often blends large-scale action and suspense with emotionally grounded human drama.
P R E S S A R C H I V E
Deadline | Maggie Grace, Devon Sawa, Tiffany Haddish & Ralph Macchio To Star In Crime Thriller ‘The Girl In The River’
Variety | Education Impact Report: Benetton included among 110 Filmmaking Students to Watch
SeriesFest | ‘Nightfire’ - Director/Cast Q&A
Film Threat | ‘Nightfire’ Film Review
