BRIAN KALIN O’CONNELL
Brian Kalin O'Connell is a filmmaker and storyteller whose passion for narrative was born from a childhood spent navigating the complexities of being biracial (Korean and White) and constantly relocating. Stories became Brian's anchor, offering a sense of stability and a means to explore identity and belonging. This early connection to storytelling laid the foundation for a career dedicated to creating narratives that resonate deeply with audiences across diverse backgrounds.
Throughout his 25-year career, Brian has worked at some of the most iconic studios in the industry. At Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), he discovered the extraordinary possibilities of visual effects at their highest level, leading teams to innovate and push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. At LucasFilm, Brian had the unique opportunity to work closely with George Lucas, an experience that transformed his understanding of clear storytelling and the art of editing. Brian's journey then led him to Pixar, where he not only contributed to some of the studio’s most beloved films, but also played a key role in shaping the next generation of storytellers.
As a director and story artist, Brian approaches filmmaking with a deep respect for the power of narrative. He believes in crafting stories that are visually compelling and emotionally authentic; using film as a medium to bridge divides and foster empathy. His work is characterized by a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the belief that stories have the power to connect us all, no matter our background.
