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ella mckenzie
entertainment industry enthusiast
Hi, I’m ella!
In a rapidly evolving entertainment industry and an equally tumultuous sociopolitical world, I believe in the power of entertainment to offer new perspectives, bring people together, and at its very best, inspire.
I was born and raised in a small town in Massachusetts, graduating in the top of my high school class as an All-State French Hornist, before making the move to the University of Michigan, for what I thought would be my first step towards being a doctor or lawyer. Halfway through my coursework, I realized that I could no longer turn away from my deeply-rooted creativity and love for storytelling, deciding to plunge myself into the world of filmmaking. At the University of Michigan, I directed two ~30-minute short films--one of which won "Best of Fest" at my school's festival and is premiering at the Culver City Film Festival this December 2024. Also at Michigan, I received the Lee Steffenhagen Scholarship, William J. Branstrom Freshman Prize, and was recognized as a James B. Angell Scholar. I balanced my demanding double major course load with my passion for storytelling, working as a PA, AD, producer, writer, director, and editor before graduating in May 2024 with a high distinction Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television, & Media and Philosophy, Politics, & Economics.
In pursuit of entertainment, I interned in the Summer of 2023 for the leading independent entertainment company, FilmNation Entertainment (ANORA, CONCLAVE). There, my weekly coverage presentations were consistently praised by executives for their nuance and thoughtfulness. Also at FilmNation, I prepared a research presentation on the spectrum of feminist film, which was praised and utilized by the company’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion department.
Now in Los Angeles post-grad, I am diving into the entertainment industry as a Development Intern for Trevor Noah's Day Zero Productions where my responsibilities range from film, TV, and book coverage, to rolling calls, to office administration. At Day Zero, I’ve refined my eye for timely and impactful storytelling, and my passion for uplifting underrepresented voices in entertainment has only grown. Also in LA, I have delved into the independent production community, working as a freelance Assistant Director and Production Assistant on features, shorts, proof of concepts, and more.
Looking to the future, I am eager to build a career in entertainment where I am able to continue championing the voices I believe in and shape groundbreaking stories in film & TV. There is no place I’d rather be over the energetic and spirited world that is storytelling!
📸 by Stefan Petrmichl
"Sanctuary" On-set Stills 📸 by Stefan Petrmichl