Jon Osei is a Ghanaian-Filipino Canadian filmmaker from Toronto, raised in Brampton. He started making videos at a young age, experimenting with simple tools and telling stories on his own. That hands-on, self-taught beginning still shapes how he works today as a director and producer.

Since 2020, Jon has focused on character-driven short films across drama, comedy, and romance. His work is rooted in everyday moments that feel lived-in rather than staged. In 2024, he founded HorizonDream Productions to develop original projects and continue building long-term creative relationships.

Jon studied Film Production at Toronto Film School, where he gained experience taking projects from development through post-production. His training covered both creative and practical sides of filmmaking, including directing, producing, writing, editing, and sound.

His debut short A Recipe for Romance won Best Student Film (North America) at the Alternative Film Festival (Fall 2024) and Best Romance (5:01–20:00 Minutes) at the Couch Film Festival (Fall 2024). His short Clockwork Tension later won Best Drama at the New Jersey Film Awards (May 2025), Best Drama (Canada – Short Category) at the Alternative Film Festival (Summer 2025), and Best Short Film (Canada) at the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (2025).

MY APPROACH

Why I make films?

I’m interested in how films make people feel. I focus on what stays with the audience after the film ends, not just what happens on screen. I’m drawn to stories built around truth, vulnerability, and connection. As a director, I care about moments that feel lived-in and true rather than overly polished. 

What inspires me? 

I’ve been influenced by filmmakers such as Steven Spielberg, Wes Anderson, Pete Docter, and Isao Takahata. Their work reminds me that great films can be both thoughtful and accessible, and that emotion is just as important as craft.

How I lead on set?

On set, I value clarity, preparation, and trust. I try to create an environment where actors and crew feel supported and focused on the work. My experience working across different departments helps me understand how each part of the process fits together.

At the end of the day, my goal is straightforward: to create meaningful work, collaborate with people I respect, and tell stories that resonate with audiences.