DIRECTING PORTFOLIO
THE QUESTION:
As a director, Carlo’s main question is:
How do we illuminate the complexity of the human condition?
Carlo approaches projects (and everything) by feeling his way through it. He’s deep instinct mines performances that awaken in us (the audience) compassion, understanding, curiosity, empathy, rage, sorrow, they make us laugh, repel us, build community, allow us to feel the pathos and at the same time create memorable entertainment. If the work doesn't move the audience, if it doesn't create a reaction, he’s not interested.
THE APPROACH:
Carlo D’Amore is a taskmaster who demands as much from his talent as he does from himself. His approach to directing is rigorous and highly collaborative, requiring his performers and creative teams to be daring, unafraid to get dirty, and committed to telling the truth. With an endless resource of ideas and creativity,
Carlo's focus on detail extends to every single word of the piece, enabling him to mine moments of humanity and clarity that others might overlook. His keen ability to unearth from the material what very few know how to dig for sets him yards above the competition.Carlo excels at telling great new stories, reimagining classics, and boldly embracing the difficult, uncomfortable, and risky. His vision, drive, and passion are essential qualities, but his unique ability to balance firm compassion with humor and personal anecdotes sets him apart. He uses these tools to inspire and refocus his team's energy, ensuring the work reaches its full potential while simultaneously being inspired and joyful!
As a mixed-race immigrant and entrepreneur, Carlo’s sensitivity and cultural identity deeply inform his work, adding authenticity and depth to his storytelling. His decades of experience as a performer allow him to merge the roles of director and teacher, dissecting the most challenging roles and crafting performances that highly impact both the audience and the creatives fortunate enough to work with him. His attention to every layer of the process, from artistic expression to emotional support, makes him a master of storytelling and a highly recommended choice for anyone seeking to achieve outstanding work.
Awards and Accolades
2023 Big Apple Film Festival - Winner - Mamita - "Best Short Film*
2023 Florence Film Awards - Winner - Mamita - "Drama Short Film*
2023 Gold Awards - Winner - Mamita - "Drama Short Film*
2023 Venice Shorts Film Festival - Winner - Mamita - "Best Director"
2022 Independent Shorts Awards - Winner - Mamita - "Best Director"
2022 Best Shorts Competition - Winner - Mamita - "Best Latin Short"
2022 One Reeler Short Film Competition - Winner Mamita - "Best Director"
2022 Official Latino Film Festival - Winner - Mamita -"Trailblazer Award"
2022 Independent Shorts Awards - Winner Mamita - "Best Indie Short*
2007 - No Parole voted top 10 plays of the year San Francisco California
2009 - Audience Favorite Award nomination at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for No Parole
2010 - Best Actor award winner Cannes Film Festival for short film "Fly Trap"
2011 - 2012 - Drama Desk Nomination (Unique Theatrical Experience) the Ryan Case 1873
2013 - CBS votes LIT top 7 attractions in New York City for groups
2015 - "Malts of Legend wins Gold Saber Award from the Holmes Report for Innovative Marketing.