Andrew Sniezek
Director/Producer/Cinematographer

Andrew Sniezek’s passion for storytelling started in his backyard, with Halloween productions that featured handmade costumes, makeup, props, and unbridled imagination. In later years, through concentrated studies in industrial design and special effects, and various roles in theatrical and film productions, Andrew was well on his way to making an indelible mark in the minds of those who experience his work. From original sets, unique props and makeup, to Darkenwood – his large-scale haunted attraction that spanned 10 acres and drew nearly 3,000 visitors – Andrew thrives on masterminding and bringing to life a memorable experience for his audience.

In 2000, Andrew co-founded Mindbeside Studios. While there, he directed two films and gained much ground in understanding and mastering the art and science of filmmaking. Andrew also collaborated with other filmmakers on various projects that included co-developing and recording a score for an original horror film; lending his expertise as mentor, director, and cinematographer for a student film; and participating in the Boston segment of the 48-Hour Film Project. In 2005 he opened the doors to REACTION Independent Studios, and went to work on The Container, a short dark comedy he envisioned while moving belongings out of a storage facility.

Andrew continually pursues original works for film while directing and executing corporate and freelance graphic design, video production, and small theatrical productions for seasonal fun.

Kathleen Sniezek
Assistant Director/Assistant Producer/Set Designer

Kathleen Sniezek has worked on numerous short films primarily for corporate internal communications, which afforded a creative outlet during her 20+ years in marketing and public relations. For these projects, her role was typically and happily split between concepts, script development, prop master, casting director, and music selection.

Kathleen brings a holistic, organized approach to projects, enabling her to move between creative, strategic, and tactical roles as needed.

She is the publicist for REACTION Independent Studios, in addition to her full-time position as public relations manager for a high-tech company.

Jamie R. Northrup
First AC, Gaffer, Editor

Jamie Northrup has worked on film projects that have taken him from Massachusetts, to Louisiana maximum security prisons, to Japan. He has held roles as gaffer, grip, and AC to technical supervisor and DP, in projects that range from documentaries to reality TV, including Trading Spouses and Nanny 911.

Jamie participated in the Boston, Portland, and Providence segments of the 2006 48-Hour Film Project as DP, director, and editor, garnering "Best of" honor in Boston with Burger Menu Productions and Andrew Sniezek for the silent short Room 17.

Jamie recently relocated to Hollywood, CA (www.jamesnorthrup.com) and freelances as an assistant cameraman and a Steadicam Operator.

Michael Belanger
Screenwriter

Michael Belanger has been involved with music since the age of eight, and in numerous creative projects with Andrew Sniezek for the last decade. Over the years Michael has mastered several instruments and has composed numerous pieces for the guitar, keyboard, and piano. His works include the score for the feature-length film The Killing Hand (2003) and the short political satire Our Fellow Countrymen (2004) under Mindbeside Studios.

In 2004 Michael worked with Andrew to co-write and record the score for Acrylic Midnight, a horror film by Brothers Epstein Productions. In 2005, Michael teamed up with Andrew again to write the screenplay for The Container for REACTION Independent Studios.

Michael writes music in his home recording studio, and leads New England Screenwriters, a group for local professional and aspiring screenwriters to discuss story ideas, plot lines, character development, and more. He is also developing several original concepts into screenplays.