ACTING + PRODUCING 
I have been in the arts since I was young, passionate even then about storytelling. I got my start in theater attending an arts high school called OCSA, where I was trained for four years in a conservatory program. I went on to sign with APA and Foundation Media Partners, and then later AEFH, who I am represented by today, to pursue film/tv acting.
I have worked as a producer for the past several years, working to produce short-form projects, as well as live events, docu-series’, and significant marketing campaigns.
I attended NYU, and later, Juilliard for a Drama program. I’ve also trained at Stella Adler Acting Studio, The Groundlings, Anthony Meindl and more.
I most recently worked on the production team for a big-budget film called The Room Next Door, starring Julianne Moore.
I am working currently producing an impact-driven short called MURK, spotlighting the story of a young father and his young daughter on holiday, as he wrestles in the throes of an addiction. To find out more and how you can partner with us, see below.
upcoming
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upcoming 〰️
5-year old Nicole encounters a mysterious stranger while on holiday with her loving father... but something’s bubbling beneath the surface. Inspired by a true story.
Written & Directed by: Brinkley Smithers | Josh Leong
Produced by: Matt Kaufman | Lauren Franco
In Partnership With: The Smithers Foundation | Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
Team Message:
We’re a group of award-winning filmmakers whose families have personally been affected by the substance abuse epidemic. We consider this the crisis of our generation and are working to raise awareness for the impact of substance abuse on families and young children. Our team has a track record of producing social-impact films that directly spark large advocacy, educational, and legislative campaigns (such as HEY CHARLIE’s #StopTheSpiral campaign with Columbia University Medical Center). Our deck below contains links to previous work (awarded at the Tribeca Film Festival, Cannes Lions, NBC Peacock and more), impact case studies, as well as eight ways we believe the film can be leveraged as an asset for awareness campaigns and organizations across the country.
MURKrecent work
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recent work 〰️
GHOSTEDWritten & Directed by: Jared St. Cyr
Produced by: Braving Bird
1st Assistant Director: Sophia Heriveaux
Cinematographer: Luc Ung
Original Score: Gavin Brivik | Philip Daniel
Cast: Lauren Franco
LEAD
Faced with the challenges of life in New York City, a young girl seeks the help of a friend who just won’t seem to return her calls.
everyone everywhere
Written & Directed by: Josh Leong
Produced by: Amy Claborn | Lauren Franco
Cinematographer: Jared St. Cyr
Creative Direction: Caleb Kent | Carter Gekiere
Post Producer: Andrew Wright
VFX: Erik Kallin | Nathan Cohen
Casting Assistant: Violette Trotter
Production Design: Abigail Donahue
Costume Design: Jana Bergstedt
1st AC: Derek Brooker
2nd AC: Stephen Mercari
Drone Operators: Keith Champaco | Andrew Wright
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER/ACTRESS
The lives of four New Yorkers are interrupted when supernatural prisms mysteriously appear across the city.
CHICKENACTRESS
In a Bronx juvenile prison, a 16-year old boy faced with losing custody of his child must discover what it takes to be a father through raising a chicken. Inspired by true stories.
Written & Directed by: Josh Leong
Produced by: Denyvi Rose | Catherine Nguyen | Nadera Herbert-Bey | Josh Leong
Executive Producers: Irwin Tan | Sounil & Gracie Yu | Jin & May Leong
Casting: Sophia Hiller
1st Assistant Director: Sophia Heriveaux
Cinematographer: Luc Ung
Editor: Josh Leong
Original Score: Gavin Brivik | Philip Daniel