Spotlight events feature conversations with high-profile film and television industry professionals who share helpful advice and insights on their career experiences and creative processes. You do not need to have seen the work to participate!


Step inside the world of The Pitt with acclaimed television director Amanda Marsalis (Westworld, Ozark) in an exclusive conversation hosted by Sundance Collab.


Marsalis directed four standout episodes of the award-winning medical drama that has captivated audiences with its intensity and emotional depth. The Pitt takes viewers inside a Pittsburgh hospital emergency department, following the dedicated medical staff as they navigate life-and-death decisions, personal struggles, and the relentless pace of trauma medicine. The series offers an unflinching look at modern healthcare while exploring the human stories behind every patient and provider.


In this behind-the-scenes discussion, Marsalis will share her approach to directing high-stakes drama, crafting authentic character arcs, and capturing the chaos and compassion of trauma medicine. We'll discuss her collaboration with the creative team, working with ensemble casts, and the specific directorial choices that brought emotional depth to The Pitt's intense hospital setting.


This conversation will provide valuable insights into the craft of television directing and practical advice for directors looking to work in episodic television. The session will conclude with a Q&A where Amanda Marsalis will answer questions about her directorial process and career in television.


If you would benefit from an accommodation to fully participate in this event, please complete this form, contact us at (435) 776-7790, or email us at accessibility@sundance.org to discuss your specific requests. Every effort will be made to accommodate advance requests; however, requests made within 5 days of the event may not be guaranteed.


Live event registration for Sundance Collab Advisor Studios is free of charge. A recording of this event will be posted to our Video Library the next business day following the event. All registered attendees can watch the recording for two business days after it is posted. After that, on-demand access to the recording can be purchased for $10.

Amanda Marsalis is a film and television director whose background in photography informs her sharp eye and signature visual style. Most recently, she directed four episodes and served as Co-EP on HBO’s acclaimed medical drama THE PITT, as well as four episodes of Netflix’s RANSOM CANYON, including the pilot and season finale, and served as an EP on the series. Marsalis’ expertise behind the camera also led her to direct standout episodes of OZARK, INVASION, UMBRELLA ACADEMY, and WESTWORLD. A California native, Marsalis began photographing punk shows as a teen and built a career shooting for VOGUE, GQ, and CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER. more...
Moderator | Director, Collab
Patty West is a producer and educator based in California. She led the Directing Workshop for Women and the Thesis Program at the American Film Institute prior to joining the Sundance Institute. She came to Sundance Collab in December of 2019 and now serves as its Director. West is a Chicago native and holds a B.S. from Northwestern University, an M.F.A. from the AFI Conservatory and an Executive M.B.A. from Quantic School of Business & Technology. She is a member of the Producer's Council of the Producers Guild of America. more...

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