FEATURE
FILMS
A.K.A. BIRDSEYE
I co-directed my debut feature film, ‘A.K.A. BIRDSEYE,’ with Stephen Beckner. The film follows obsessive Colorado sheriff Nolan Sharpless and his son Ben as they delve into a mysterious kidnapping case, leading to a dangerous pursuit of a mythical Swiss criminal.
As the media stretches and distorts the truth, Sharpless starts to lose sight of his investigation, as well as his own sense of reality.Shot in Zürich, Los Angeles, and Colorado, the mockumentary blends suspense, intrigue, and dark humor. Starring Fred Ward, R. Lee Early, Fred Koehler and Stephan Kurt ‘A.K.A. BIRDSEYE’ A.K.A.
Birdseye was chosen as an official selection to the 2002 Locarno International Film Festival and was praised for its innovative storytelling and faux-documentary style, marking the beginning of a successful journey to its official cinema release and critical acclaim.
LIEBE UND WAHN
In 2007, I had the opportunity to direct my first made-for-television film for Swiss TV.
Titled 'Liebe und Wahn' (Love and Delusion), and told as a thriller drama, the story follows Professor Iris Lanz, portrayed by Sybille Canonica, who dismisses her student Sebastian's innocent gestures, oblivious to his dangerous obsession with her.As someone who appreciates stories with strong female leads, I aimed to bring depth and complexity to the character of Professor Lanz.
Shot on location at the archaeological Institute for Egyptology at Zurich University, the production benefited from its realistic setting, adding authenticity to the story. Set against this backdrop, the film depicted a gripping stalker drama, with Professor Lanz at the center of a perilous obsession.
HELDIN DER LÜFTE
For my second made-for-TV movie, 'Heldin der Lüfte' (Heroine of the Skies), I was brought on board to direct an alpine action drama set against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, focusing on the challenges faced by helicopter pilots of Rega.
The narrative highlights the life-saving efforts of the Swiss air rescue organization, Rega. Drawing inspiration from the true story of the first female helicopter pilot for Rega, the film chronicles Sina Andri's journey in a profession predominantly dominated by men.Reluctantly returning to her hometown to join the Rega base in Samedan, Sina confronts both the dangers of her job and the shadows of her past.
Tensions rise with embittered Gian Padrun, blaming her for his son's death. Despite pressure, Sina's bravery shines during a perilous rescue, earning her the title of "Heroine of the Skies." Yet, Gian's vendetta threatens her hard-won peace.