Michael Giannantonio
Writer, Director, ProducerMichael Giannantonio, a seasoned professional with a wide-ranging production background, has garnered over 50 prestigious awards for his exceptional contributions to the industry. Michael is a versatile professional with extensive experience in live and planned production across diverse fields, including live entertainment, theatrical and production lighting, cinematography, scriptwriting, development, broadcasting, financing, pre-production, production, post-production, marketing, and distribution. His current objectives include writing and directing globally appealing motion pictures and producing high-end television content.
Born on March 12, 1973, at K.I. Air Force Base in Michigan, USA, Michael’s early years hinted at his creative and leadership talents. From creating art and performing magic tricks in elementary school to launching his first band at the age of 14, his journey was marked by unwavering determination, making his professional debut as a musician at the age of 15.
Amidst personal challenges, Michael left high school at 17 to work as an electrician’s apprentice. Overcoming adversity, he excelled in managing electrical crews on substantial projects and later worked as a journeyman electrician for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. His music career also thrived, with Michael’s band headlining major venues.
Recognizing the potential of technology, Michael transitioned into the tech industry, starting as a salesman and quickly advancing to manage multiple retail locations. Simultaneously, his band faced a setback, leading him to explore new creative directions. Michael emerged as a world-renowned stage hypnotist and magician, touring the world and captivating audiences.
While excelling in the technology sector Michael started his own company, Performance PC Computers. He channeled his profits into his magical and hypnotic stage show, touring globally and performing at elite venues. Michael also ventured deeper into the entertainment industry, establishing a talent agency, consulting for feature films, producing professional video content, and securing feature film financing for Hollywood executives.
In 2005, Michael transitioned from live shows to film and television, co-writing, producing, and directing his first award-winning short film, “The Devil Inside,” alongside lifelong friend John Voight. His success in the entertainment world led to a shift in focus.
Michael later accepted an executive level position managing lighting and power distribution for a tri-state live event production company, enhancing his already substantial knowledge and vast resume. Michael then went on to write, produce, direct, and edit award-winning video productions for a prominent Scottsdale-based production company, while also contributing to national television shows. This rich and diverse background in production and management paved the way for his career in film and television.
In the current phase of his career, Michael serves as an executive producer, overseeing a diverse portfolio of projects. He currently writes, produces, directs, films, edits, and distributes feature-length and short films, television shows, documentaries, commercials, corporate videos, artist profiles, and more. He is the owner and operator of Summitstar Studios, a full-service production and post-production facility. With this state-of-the-art studio at his disposal, Michael is fully equipped to continue crafting compelling content for film and television, carrying forward his artistic and creative endeavors to new heights.