By: Sheila R. Brown, VP, Equity & Inclusion, AICP
Checking in on Alex Miranda, a participant in the second cohort of the AICP Mentorship Program, reveals a creative professional whose journey continues to flourish. Building on the guidance and support of his mentor, AICP Member Craig Duncan of Cutters, Alex has benefited not only from career insights but also from valuable life experience. What began as a path in acting has evolved into a dynamic career behind the camera, where Alex has established himself as an accomplished director and filmmaker, bringing a unique perspective shaped by his diverse background in the industry.
Please share what your career was prior to joining the mentoring program. Were you already in the commercial production arena?
My professional career first began in front of the camera, spanning 15 years as an actor with co-starring appearances in films like The Lost World Jurassic Park 2, Walker Texas Rangers, and working on iconic brand commercials for Sprite and Yogurt Yoplait. I remember eating so much yogurt for those commercials that I stopped eating yogurt for five years.
Although I genuinely loved the craft of acting, I often found myself cast in a pattern of negative portrayals: a criminal, delinquent, or impoverished youth. These experiences as a child became a powerful motivator for my future journey in filmmaking and my production company, Bravebird. My mission behind the camera is to create authentic, nuanced stories across all communities.
How did you learn about our mentoring program?
I learned about the AICP Mentorship Program through my wife and business partner, Noel Miranda. She urged me to apply after hearing about it while we were in production on our first feature film, Trace the Line. I was fortunate to be a part of the second cohort.
Who was your mentor, and what was that experience like?
My mentor was Craig Duncan of Cutters, and the experience was truly wonderful. In fact, our professional relationship has organically evolved into a deep and continuing friendship that extends well beyond career advice. Craig has always been incredibly open to meeting, offering wisdom on not just industry hurdles, but also on life and family. I am profoundly grateful for his mentorship, opening his network, and for the AICP creating a vital space to connect with someone like Craig.
Participating in the AICP program led me to connect with another outstanding filmmaker, Danny Laboy Valdez. It was special to not only receive the mentorship from Craig but also to collaborate with other outstanding filmmakers on projects.
What has been your journey since participating in the program?
I joined the program in 2021, mid-pandemic while I was directing my first independent feature film. We had lost 90% of our commercial work, but I was able to raise funds within my community to produce Trace the Line, a film reflecting on the events of 2020. That period was a severe test of endurance and left me wondering if I should even continue my storytelling career.
It was in this time of questioning that I participated in the AICP Mentorship Program. That’s when everything began to change. Since the program, my creative confidence has soared. I now understand how much I can endure, and my filmmaking voice has evolved with greater nuance and creative freedom.
Since the program, we have produced seven films, including directing my first feature-length documentary (Sacred Wisdom Sacred Earth). Our work has been recognized with a prestigious National Geographic Wildlife Storytelling Grant, a shortlisting by Hulu/Kartemquin, becoming a NFL Diversity Supplier, and an invitation to become a Windrider Fellow at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. Most recently, one of our films, directed by Diem Van Groth, 612: Darkness in the Land of Nice, received an Oscar Qualification for the 98th Academy Awards.
When I reflect on all of our accomplishments, it is sobering to think how close I was to quitting. I’ll be forever grateful for the AICP because they entered my life path at such a crucial fork in the road.
What are you most proud of as it relates to your career?
When I think of my career and what I’m most proud of, it makes me want to pinch myself! I’ve filmed dinosaur discoveries in the high desert of Wyoming, I’ve interviewed prolific people and Indigenous healers, I’ve documented Indigenous culinary movements, and aided in the promotion of Indigenous Health across the states. These works include: Walk In Beauty; Sacred Wisdom, Sacred Earth; and What’s In A Name. My upcoming film, funded by National Geographic, Movers of Life, is a visual prayer documenting the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin’s efforts to restore Lake Sturgeon.
It’s unbelievable to think of all the places I’ve traveled to, and the people and communities I have met to produce phenomenal stories of dignity and hope. My work brings me a lot of joy and purpose. I am most proud of the courageous stories we’ve been able to produce since making Trace the Line. That incredibly difficult first film set me on a bold path of producing narratives centered on transformation and healing.
What have you not done that you still aspire to do?
I’ve spent a decade producing highly impactful films and documentaries, but I think I’m due for a comedy! I'd love to write and direct a really good, sharp comedy. On a more personal note, while I have worked on many projects throughout Indian Country in the U.S., I have yet to produce films that tell the stories of my own Indigenous roots—the Huichol and Taíno tribes.
Is there anyone you have not worked with that you would like to work with as a commercial director (person, brand, etc.)?
My documentary work often involves filming in extreme environments and remote areas, making me a natural fit for outdoor brands. I believe my body of work would pair exceptionally well with companies like Patagonia or REI. It’s on my bucket list to produce commercial and branded films for these outdoor leaders in the future.
Is there anything that you would like to share that I have not asked about?
As I reflect on the AICP mentorship program, I have a clear understanding of how important human connection is for filmmakers today. With all the dynamics and forces at play in the world, we need each other now more than ever before. I would encourage folks to deepen their relationships and connections and most definitely, apply and connect to the AICP Mentorship Program.
How can people reach you and/or follow you online?
You can follow my Instagram at @alexmirandafilms and/or connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmirandafilms/.
If you are interested in learning more about the AICP Mentoroing Progam, reach out to Sheila R. Brown at sheilab@aicp.com. If you are interested in volunteering to be a Mentor for future cycles, please email Brian Doherty at briand@aicp.com.