Graduate of the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California, where he received a Presidential Scholarship and a Dean's Scholarship.
Rotary Club Milano Scala - Best Director for the film Hopeful Notes.
2010 International Social Commitment Awards - Best Director for the film Hopeful Notes.
Frequently uses music sequences with no dialogue.
Premiered his films at prestigious festivals and locations (i.e. the Giffoni Film Festival and the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood).
Is the first Italian director to have a film promoted in McDonald's Happy Meals.
Worked with professional actors as well as world-famous athletes (Dennis Rodman, Fabio Cannavaro, Luis Figo), singers (Anastacia, Iva Zanicchi), and dancers (Fernando Sosa and the Tropical Gem).
Directed Italian icon Paolo Villaggio in his last on-screen performance.
Replaced John G. Avildsen (director of Rocky), who was originally attached to direct The Minis.
His films often feature outcasts and underdogs, who fight personal battles and go "from zero to hero".
Received 3 degrees from Santa Monica College.
Worked on the creative aspects of the videogame based on his first film.
Directed 5 Academy Award winners in the film Not To Forget.
Is the creator of the projects Let's Make a Difference and Helping Vegas.