James Cotten

Film, Class of 2001

James has built an impressive career across multiple roles in the film industry, proving that versatility is key to success. A 2001 graduate of The Los Angeles Film School, his journey from aspiring actor to accomplished filmmaker and producer is a testament to his dedication and passion. With notable directing and producing credits, James has left a lasting impact on Hollywood.

His breakthrough came when his short film Thunderbird caught the attention of legendary producer Roger Corman. This led to his directorial debut with Demon Slayer, a low-budget film that remains available on SyFy. From there, James expanded his portfolio with films such as Sugar Creek, Painted Woman, and La Linea – The Line. His producing credits include major hits like Captain Fantastic and Pitch Perfect, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.

“I’m a director. Writer. Producer. Actor. I’ve done it all. So I just call myself a storyteller.”

Committed to fostering new talent, James continues to collaborate with fellow L.A. Film School alumni, including Phillip Bladh, Brandon Trost, Eric England, John M. Valerio, and Tristan Thai. Passionate about mentoring creatives, he believes in paying it forward, ensuring the next generation of filmmakers can achieve their own success.

Latest news featuring James Cotten:

Los Angeles Film School - 25 Years

Our story: 25 years of the Los Angeles Film School

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25 years. Wow. You know what they say: time flies. And it’s been a ride. But an excitement-filled rollercoaster of a ride, one that all started with a vision: To inspire young minds to find their own creative voice, in a place they could absorb the inner-workings of the entertainment industry and learn alongside like-minded students from all walks of life.