MICHAEL MERLINO
Director | Editor | VFX Artist | Composer | Sound Designer
Director | Editor | VFX Artist | Composer | Sound Designer
Michael Merlino is a Chicago-born, Los Angeles-based filmmaker specializing in directing, editing, VFX, music production, and sound design. His work has earned a $10K grant through a national film competition, awards from the Chicago International Film Festival’s CineYouth, Artlist’s Creative Competition, a premiere at NFFTY, recognition from the Academy Award®-Qualifying Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival, and accolades at numerous local and statewide festivals.
With nearly a decade of experience in editing and VFX, Michael has collaborated with brands like Google, Artlist.io, and Corridor Digital. He has composed over 30 original scores for films celebrated at major festivals and by wide online audiences.
Drawing from his Filipino heritage, Michael’s work blends diverse narratives, dark humor, and the existential anxieties of Generation Z, while keeping an engaged and direct story at the forefront to ensure an accessible yet innovative experience for many.