directing

Ariel Lopez

director / writer / producer

Ariel is an accomplished location manager with a deep-rooted connection to the film industry. Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in Sociology, laying a strong foundation for her understanding of diverse human experiences. Having entered the film industry as an intern in 2011, Ariel has steadily advanced her career, culminating in her work as a location manager. Throughout her journey, she has worked on notable films and television shows, including Sicario, The Curse, and When You Finish Saving the World, collaborating with production companies such as A24, Netflix, Sony, and Lionsgate. Working alongside immensely talented filmmakers, she gained invaluable insights into fostering a collaborative environment, unleashing creativity, and problem-solving on the fly, all while nurturing a deep respect for the crew. 

Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between location management and directing, Ariel values her experience in logistics and permitting, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of filmmaking. This perspective enables her to navigate the complexities of production seamlessly, contributing to the success of projects and elevating her capabilities as a director.

Fueling her passion for storytelling, Ariel has been a lifelong advocate for narratives that explore the multifaceted lives of women and challenge conventional storytelling conventions. In high school, she showcased her resourcefulness and creativity through group video projects, captivating audiences despite limited resources. 

Driven by her unwavering dedication to her craft, Ariel has honed her skills through taking a plethora of classes, including Sundance Co//ab's Directing: Core Elements (instructor: Lise Raven), as well as Visual Storytelling (instructor: Peter Markham), Directing Actors (instructor: Tessa Blake), Screenwriting: Core Elements (instructor: Trey Ellis), all through the Sundance Institute.

With her debut short film, Solstice, garnering nationwide acclaim in 2021, Ariel has continued to make waves in the film industry. She recently produced her first feature film, Radon's Daughters, and is in post-production on the short dramedy The Agency. Ariel is also dedicated to amplifying women's voices in the industry through her upcoming nonfiction podcast, Badass Women in Film. The podcast offers candid, entertaining, and insightful discussions with women from various departments, shedding light on their unique experiences in the world of filmmaking.

the agency

credited as: writer, director, producer

Rachel’s cringe-worthy date with a former boy band star leads her into a quirky underground group of women devoted to rescuing women from romantic misadventures, sparking a journey of self-discovery and love. Learn more about the world of The Agency at www.seedandspark.com/fund/the-agency 

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31186763/

...all the love you ever get

credited as: writer, director, producer

A marriage is thrown into chaos when Jessica reveals a devastating secret to Will.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19728936/

solstice. 

credited as: writer, director, producer

High School students Olivia and Jacob are faced with a life-altering decision that no teenager is ready to face. Are they ready to trade one future for another? How does one know which future to choose?

Solstice has screened at San Diego International Shortsfest, Santa Fe Independent Film Festival, and Las Cruces International Film Festival.

www.imdb.com/title/tt13331454/ 

watch solstice here

The Lottery

credited as: director

A grumbling war veteran and new recruit rendezvous with the reality of making a gamble.