MERLIN CAMOZZI

Merlin Camozzi is a writer and director whose work blends genre storytelling with gritty, grounded realism. Raised in rural areas and small towns across America, his perspective is shaped by a deep connection to place and people on the margins.

Merlin’s films have been featured in Vice and Out Magazine, and screened at festivals around the world, including Cinequest, Brooklyn, Telluride Horror Show, Grimmfest, Screamfest, and HollyShorts. As a commercial director, Merlin has created work on behalf of brands including Sprite, Coca-Cola, Uber, Morgan Stanley, and ARRI. He is an alumnus of the Kyoto Filmmakers Lab and was selected for the SHOOT New Directors Showcase for his work with the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence.

His debut feature, “The Snare,” won the Audience Award for Best Genre Film at Cinequest 2025 as well as Best Feature and Best Lead Performance at the Cordillera International Film Festival 2025.

Q&A guest after “The Snare” screening