Drawing from her powerful journey as an Iranian-born artist who found refuge in New York, Azadeh Nikzadeh transforms authentic stories into catalysts for social change. Her work amplifies the voices of women and marginalized communities, with a particular focus on Iranian narratives and global human rights.
As an impact producer and founder of Burnt Generation Studios, Azadeh crafts compelling narratives that bridge cultural divides and inspire action. Her films have reached influential platforms including the United Nations, Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles, and the International Religious Freedom Summit, creating meaningful dialogue around crucial social issues.
Notable Works
Her award-winning portfolio includes the impactful documentary "The Girl Sitting Here" and the groundbreaking "Credible Fear." Her feature screenplay "DANDELION" has garnered recognition from prestigious institutions, selected for the Athena Writing Lab and advancing as a Second Rounder at both Sundance and Austin Film Festival Writing Labs.
Recognition & Leadership
Azadeh's commitment to authentic storytelling has earned her fellowships from:
- Asian Film Academy
- Athena Film Festival Doc Pitch
- Lower East Side: Indie Project
- Multiple distinguished film institutions
Through her work as an impact producer and cultural consultant, Azadeh continues to build bridges of understanding while advocating for human rights and social justice. She brings deep expertise in crafting narratives that resonate across cultures while creating measurable social impact.
Driven by a passion for films that ignite crucial conversations and inspire tangible change, Lisa Reznik is an award-winning filmmaker with a rich background in documentary storytelling and community engagement. Her films have garnered recognition at over 30 film festivals and private screenings. Her current project, 'Left Bank: The Women Who Rescued James Joyce's Ulysses,' reflects her dedication to uncovering and amplifying overlooked narratives, in this case, shedding light on the vital role of women in a groundbreaking literary moment. This film is the culmination of over a decade of meticulous research, underscoring her commitment to in-depth exploration and meaningful storytelling.
Lisa's understanding of the power of narrative to foster understanding and drive social awareness is rooted in her academic background in European Cultural Studies and Politics from Brandeis University, complemented by a Master's in Journalism from NYU. Her time spent on the 'mean streets' of New York, preparing for and conducting interviews, honed her skills in engaging with diverse perspectives and extracting compelling human stories – skills essential for impactful documentary filmmaking. This foundation allows her to approach complex subjects with nuance and sensitivity, ensuring her films resonate with audiences and spark meaningful dialogue. Her experience living in Paris and immersing herself in its intellectual and political landscape further enriched her understanding of cultural dynamics and the power of shared experiences to foster connection and exchange.
Languages: English(native); French(fluent)
