Picture North Signs 3 Dynamic Directors
Picture North is proud to announce the signing of directors José M Norton, Olivia Curry, and Porteus Xandau.
Martin Rodahl, executive producer and Founder at Picture North said, "With these signings, Picture North is taking another big step towards becoming the world-class powerhouse we've envisioned since day one. From talent like Olivia, who continues to rise through the ranks at Picture North, to Porteus, hailing from Cape Town, South Africa, to José, who is trilingual and a beast at Unreal Engine, we're thrilled that these dynamic directors see their future with us - we're ready to go to work."
José began his career in post-production, cutting commercials for top brands, but broke through in Hollywood after directing a music video featuring captivating VFX. Swiftly gaining recognition in the music video domain, he was quickly featured at prominent festivals such as SXSW.
José’s directing repertoire expanded with a viral commercial for Nike featuring Neymar Jr., leading to collaborations with global brands like Google, Playboy Fragrances, McDonald’s, and Vodafone.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join Picture North,” José said. “It’s been incredible to see them pushing the envelope and consistently delivering excellent work. I’m proud to be on the roster and look forward to the fun, creative, and, yes, tech-y times.”
Check out more here.
Olivia, a multifaceted professional as both an editor and director, played a pivotal role in the early stages of Picture North, assuming the position of editor and helping establish the company's initial post-production operations.
Beyond her contributions to the film industry, Olivia leads a dual life as a professional boxer recognised on the global stage. Her extensive involvement in sports fuels her passion for storytelling with a particular focus on delivering narratives about the relationship between individuals and their bodies.
Olivia commented, “I’m excited to be continuing my journey with Picture North as a director. Combining my editorial eye and passion for storytelling with Picture North’s high visual standard and get-it-done mentality will result in some beautiful and innovative new work.”
Check out more here.
Half man and half lens, Porteus Xandau, was born in Johannesburg and bred in Cape Town. His journey into the world of aesthetics began while studying Visual Design at the AAA School of Advertising. After graduating, he threw himself headfirst into acting. His discovery of all things cinematic helped shape the evolution of his creative and artistic approach.
Since moving behind the camera, his work is a pure reflection of his vast interests from performance-based narrative films to down and gritty documentaries. Porteus’ knack for maximising actors’ potential and crafting human stories with striking visuals, cultivated from his background in acting and design, ensures he exceeds every client’s expectations.
His motto? Don’t be boring.
"I'm delighted to share that I've joined Picture North as one of their latest directors in the United States. The prospect of contributing to Picture North’s exciting body of work has me genuinely pumped. The growth of Picture North is mind-boggling — guess it's time for me to strap in for the journey ahead," Porteus added.
Check out more here.
Ryan Patrick, creative executive producer, said, "All of these directors bring something incredibly unique to the table. Whether that's Olivia's experience as a professional boxer, Jose's Unreal Engine wizardry, or Porteus' years of acting in film and TV, they all lens their work from a distinct point of view. I'm beyond thrilled to see what they do as part of the Picture North team."
“With the addition of Olivia, José, and Porteus, Picture North continues to add diversity to our growing roster,” adds Neha Schultz, head of development and executive producer. “They each are brilliant collaborators, and I know our clients are going to love partnering with them.”
To view Picture North's featured body work, visit here.
