JONATHAN BURNETT

Jonathan Burnett is an independent filmmaker and educator from Rock Island, Illinois, who resides in Los Angeles. He received his training in film production and visual media, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA, and a Master of Fine Arts from Loyola Marymount University. Jonathan has written, directed, produced, and filmed several projects throughout his tenure. Jonathan's professional journey has taken him across international borders, as he has worked on film projects in France and Algeria and domestically in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, the Pacific Northwest, New York City, and Los Angeles. These experiences have greatly honed his technical expertise and expanded his cultural understanding. In addition to his filmmaking pursuits, Jonathan is the Creator, Director, and Lead Instructor of the Urban Exposure Independent Film Program. This ten-week intensive program aims to teach the basics of filmmaking to aspiring youth in the Midwest, fostering their creative growth and providing them with valuable filmmaking and storytelling skills. One of Jonathan's notable accomplishments is his thesis film, "Smoke & Mirrors," showcased in nine different festivals across the United States. This film has received recognition and won two awards for "Best Short Film" and "Best Student Film" at the Alternating Currents Film Festival in Davenport, Iowa. Currently, he is collaborating with his father, Charles Burnett, an Honorary Oscar Recipient, on producing feature films and television content. He will also teach at multiple film schools in Los Angeles Area in Fall 2023. Jonathan is dedicated to his artistic and academic journey, continuously pushing boundaries, creating impactful stories that resonate with audiences worldwide, and guiding the next generation of filmmakers.