John Haas

Director/Cinematographer

I received my first digital camera (a miniDV camcorder) as a teenager growing up on a farm in rural Missouri.

My mother immigrated to the US from the Philippines after her family fled Martial Law. There was a strong desire to understand my roots as I felt a disconnect with where I grew up.

Passionate about filmmaking, it was the discovery of mindfulness and specifically the writing of Thích Nhất Hạnh which led me to the realization that I needed to use my abilities to advocate for others.

My work has since led me around the world covering topics rooted in human rights and social justice.

I remain committed to developing a deeper understanding of the world while honing my craft and technical skillset so that the work I contribute to the world resonates with audiences.