J. Zachary Thurman is a writer and director most recognized for his viral horror-comedy short film FINLEY (2019), which has amassed over 16 million views on YouTube. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Thurman pursued his passion for filmmaking at Georgia State University. Thurman continued his education at the University of Southern California's Graduate Film Program, where he created a series of acclaimed short films, including THE DEMON CORE, DON'T FEED THE CAT, and RUN. These films garnered a range of prestigious accolades, including Best Writer, Best Director, and Best Cinematography. With a steadily growing body of work and a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and genre-blending, Thurman is a passionate advocate for the cinematic experience in theaters. Committed to creating films that push boundaries and evoke deep emotional responses, he aims to craft stories that resonate with audiences, fostering a powerful connection and ensuring the magic of the big screen remains a vital part of the storytelling journey.