Dubai-based global management and production powerhouse, 75East, is making headlines yet again! This time, they’ve signed on Iranian-American filmmaker and animator Liam LoPinto, a rising talent whose 2023 animated short film The Old Young Crow captivated audiences across the festival circuit.
A Festival Favorite That Left a Lasting Impression
The Old Young Crow wasn’t just another animated short—it was an artistic masterpiece that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. The film was executive-produced by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Succession Emmy-nominated actor Arian Moayed and Academy Award-winner Rayka Zehtabchi. If Zehtabchi’s name sounds familiar, it's because she made history as the first Iranian woman to win an Oscar in 2019 for her short film Period. End of Sentence.
But what really set The Old Young Crow apart? Acclaimed Flee director Jonas Poher Rasmussen summed it up perfectly: "Playful, poetic, and profound." The short film takes viewers on an emotional and visually striking journey as an Iranian-born man rediscovers his childhood sketchbook, triggering a kaleidoscopic memory trip to a Tokyo graveyard. It was there, long ago, that he formed an unlikely bond with an elderly Japanese woman—an experience that would shape his perspective forever.
Over 80 Awards and Counting!
The impact of The Old Young Crow wasn’t just emotional—it was tangible. The film racked up an impressive collection of accolades, earning over 80 awards on the international stage. Some of the biggest honors included wins at the Oscar-qualifying Palm Springs International ShortFest, the Gold Screen Young Directors Award, and Best Short Film New Visions at the prestigious Sitges International Film Festival of Catalonia. With such a decorated festival run, it’s no wonder 75East saw something special in LoPinto.
A Filmmaker with an Expanding Vision
Liam LoPinto isn’t slowing down anytime soon. In fact, he’s just getting started. Currently, he’s developing a feature-length adaptation of The Old Young Crow, along with a slate of other exciting short and feature-length projects. Given his background and storytelling prowess, these upcoming works are bound to be just as compelling.
An Artistic Journey Across the Globe
Raised in New York, LoPinto’s artistic journey has been nothing short of fascinating. Between 2013 and 2021, he honed his craft at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, including NYU Tisch's UGFTV Program, CalArts’ renowned Character Animation Program, and Tokyo’s Waseda University School of International Liberal Studies. His education across these diverse institutions helped shape his unique storytelling perspective, blending Western and Eastern influences seamlessly.
His early works showcased this signature style. French Fly was selected for CAA Moebius’ 5th Showcase, while Karam Camera, a powerful short documentary made in partnership with the Karam Foundation, shed light on the resilience of young Syrian refugees. Both projects displayed his ability to craft visually stunning and emotionally charged narratives.
Recognized by Some of the Industry’s Best
LoPinto’s creative talents haven’t gone unnoticed. He was a participant in the second edition of The Pillars Artist Fellowship, a prestigious program aimed at uplifting emerging Muslim artists. This initiative, backed by the Pillars Fund in collaboration with acclaimed actor Riz Ahmed and Left Handed Films, provides resources and mentorship to help artists break through industry barriers.
Beyond that, LoPinto also had the honor of participating in Pedro Costa's esteemed Creators Lab in partnership with Playlab Films. This exclusive program, held in the heart of Mexico’s Yucatán, further honed his creative approach and storytelling depth.
75East: A Platform for Emerging and Established Talent
So, what exactly is 75East? This Dubai-based management and production company launched in 2023 with a bold mission—to champion talent from the SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) region and its diaspora. Their roster is packed with game-changing filmmakers who are reshaping cinema in their own unique ways.
LoPinto joins an impressive lineup of talent represented by 75East, including Palme d'Or nominee Abu Bakr Shawky (Yomeddine, Hajjan), Oscar nominee and BAFTA-winner Bassel Ghandour (Theeb, The Alleys), and celebrated filmmakers like Mahdi Fleifel (To A Land Unknown), Omar Hilal (Voy! Voy! Voy!), and Amjad Al Rasheed (Inshallah A Boy). Others on the roster include Firas Khoury (Alam, Maradona’s Legs), Faris Alrjoob (The Red Sea Makes Me Wanna Cry), Nay Tabbara (Ebb & Flow), Karim Shaaban (6 Days), Yassmina Karajah (Rupture), and Mayar Al Nouri (Tarteeb Khass). With such an array of talent, 75East is proving to be a major force in the industry.
The Future is Bright for Liam LoPinto
With 75East backing him and a feature adaptation of The Old Young Crow in development, Liam LoPinto’s future in the industry looks incredibly promising. His storytelling ability, combined with his international influences and artistic depth, makes him a filmmaker to watch.
If his past work is any indication, his upcoming projects will continue to push creative boundaries and resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether you’re a film buff, an animation enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates powerful storytelling, LoPinto’s journey is one worth following.
Login