Antonio R. Méndez

Antonio R. Méndez is an award winning, independent filmmaker based out of Central Virginia, where he attended the Zaki Gordon Center for the Cinematic Arts. During his time at Zaki Gordon, Antonio shot his directorial debut Strings. After a two and a half year long editing process (a period in during which he shot a second short film titled A Conversation) he completed Strings, a thoughtful meditation on pain and isolation. Antonio is also a reputable Assistant Director in his local community. Antonio was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico to Roberta Cross and Jose Méndez. His father only ever watched two channels: ESPN and TCM. Antonio saw movies such as The Last Emperor and 12 Angry Men at an early age, and his parents' love for cinema quickly adapted into one of Antonio's own. He was encouraged to be passionate about art, and consumed as much of it as he gave back. As he grew into a young man, his parents' encouragement sparked a slow burning flame. Antonio's desire to move, to touch, and to captivate an audience through story slowly made itself evident, and in 2012 Antonio moved to Virginia to pursue a career in film. Antonio is constantly pursuing opportunities to grow and to challenge himself as an artist. He believes there is always room for improvement, and that every second spent is an opportunity to better your craft. Life is greater than anything cinema has to offer. Take advantage of it, then tell good stories.