James Cotten
James has built an impressive career across multiple roles in the film industry, proving that versatility is key to success. A 2001 graduate of The Los Angeles Film School, his journey from aspiring actor to accomplished filmmaker and producer is a testament to his dedication and passion. With notable directing and producing credits, James has left a lasting impact on Hollywood.
His breakthrough came when his short film Thunderbird caught the attention of legendary producer Roger Corman. This led to his directorial debut with Demon Slayer, a low-budget film that remains available on SyFy. From there, James expanded his portfolio with films such as Sugar Creek, Painted Woman, and La Linea – The Line. His producing credits include major hits like Captain Fantastic and Pitch Perfect, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
“I’m a director. Writer. Producer. Actor. I’ve done it all. So I just call myself a storyteller.”
Committed to fostering new talent, James continues to collaborate with fellow L.A. Film School alumni, including Phillip Bladh, Brandon Trost, Eric England, John M. Valerio, and Tristan Thai. Passionate about mentoring creatives, he believes in paying it forward, ensuring the next generation of filmmakers can achieve their own success.