Brando Benetton is an Italian-raised filmmaker whose writing and directing work spans both Europe and the United States. While attending Ithaca College, he was named by Variety in April 2015 as one of the “110 [Film] Students to Watch” nationwide. He later earned his MFA from the USC School of Cinematic Arts.
Over time, Benetton has directed a wide range of award-winning films, commercials, and live stunt shows for European theme parks. Among his directing work is “NIGHTFIRE” (which he also co-wrote and produced), a throwback spy thriller featuring an international cast led by Emmy nominee Dylan Baker. Filmed entirely in northern Italy, the movie showcases ambitious stunt sequences and practical effects. After being nominated for Best Independent Pilot (Drama) at SeriesFest 2020, the film premiered on Amazon Prime soon after.
Most recently, Brando wrapped 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 scheduled for release in 2026. Benetton’s work is driven by a love of genre filmmaking, with his action projects often transforming large-scale stunts into emotionally grounded storytelling.
P R E S S A R C H I V E
Variety | Education Impact Report: Benetton included among 110 Filmmaking Students to Watch
Deadline | ‘Nightfire‘ Finds U.S. Release Under the Title ‘American Bullet’ – EFM
SeriesFest | ‘Nightfire’ - Director/Cast Q&A
Film Threat | ‘Nightfire’ Film Review
