Matt Straus

Director

Matt Straus is an Emmy Award-winning writer, director, cinematographer, and editor with more than 20 years of experience creating commercials, branded content, documentaries, and campaign films. A graduate of the film program at UC Santa Cruz, he is known for combining a distinctive visual style with humor and a cinematic storytelling approach.

 

Matt’s creative foundation was shaped long before he entered the film industry. As the point guard on back-to-back state championship basketball teams, he developed a deep appreciation for leadership, preparation, and performance under pressure—qualities that continue to inform his approach on set today. His lifelong passion for sports and athletes remains a driving force behind much of his work, bringing an authentic perspective to stories of competition, perseverance, and achievement.

 

Whether leading a large-scale commercial production or crafting an intimate documentary narrative, Matt brings a unique creative vision, a meticulous eye for detail, and a collaborative approach that consistently elevates the work. His films are grounded in strong storytelling, cinematic visuals, and a commitment to crafting stories that move people.