A refugee of the Iran-Iraq War, Ray Izad-Mehr settled in Los Angeles as a child during the winter of 1983. Filmmakers like Stanley Kubrick, Douglas Sirk, Steven Spielberg and Mel Brooks shaped the narrative stylings that later informed Ray’s work.
He started in the film business with stints at William Morris Agency, Universal Pictures Marketing, and the Development office for famed comedy director John Landis. It was Landis who took an interest in Ray’s career, and encouraged him to complete his education. With a $1000 check from his mentor, Ray gained admission to the local university completing his degree in Film Production at California State university Northridge.
He formed his production company while in school, and directed/produced over 150 music videos and short films. Most recently he co-produced and DP'd the award-winning feature length documentary on global sports sensation Ronda Rousey (THROUGH MY FATHER’S EYES, winner Crystal Palace London International Film Festival). Ray has now shifted his attention to developing several new narrative projects which has culminated in his feature film directorial debut, GUILLOTINE.
California State University - Northridge
(1995-1998)