Maria Calado Cardiff, United Kingdom

I’m a UK/Netherlands-based writer-director and producer with hands-on experience leading small to mid-scale independent productions from development through delivery. I regularly work across directing and production, which means I’m used to holding both creative intent and practical execution at the same time.

I’ve directed and produced multiple IMDb-qualified shorts with international festival circulation, and I’ve served as an associate producer on higher-end UK shorts moving through professional post-production and festival pipelines. My experience spans early development, fundraising, budgeting, scheduling, casting coordination, permits, and on-set delivery.

I’m particularly experienced with emotionally and physically demanding material, including projects involving vulnerability, simulated bodily harm, non-sexual nudity, and intense performance work. Because of this, I prioritise clear planning, tight schedules, minimal crews, and explicit safety frameworks. I’m very conscious of set tone: calm, contained, professional, and non-sensational.

I tend to work with lean teams and value strong collaboration with 1st ADs to maintain control, pacing, and performer safety without overcomplicating the shoot. I’m decisive, organised, and direct in communication, and I respect departments that do their job well without ego.

My work is festival-oriented and experimental rather than commercial, and I’m interested in collaborators who are precise, grounded, and comfortable operating inside challenging material while maintaining high professional standards.