Joao Augusto De Nardo is a filmmaker whose name is becoming synonymous with bold storytelling and innovative filmmaking. As a screenwriter and director, he has established himself as a unique voice in the Brazilian and global film industry. From animated shorts to feature anthologies, and experimental works, Joao’s career showcases his ability to blend genres, experiment with narrative styles, and evoke raw emotions.
With a filmography that includes shorts, anthologies, and feature films, Joao’s dedication to crafting unforgettable stories has earned him respect and recognition as a filmmaker unafraid to push boundaries.
The First Steps: Golden Skull
Joao’s career began with the animated short Golden Skull in 2021. A visually captivating piece, the animation offered a mix of dark themes and storytelling that hinted at Joao’s evolving creative vision. Golden Skull drew viewers into its world of mystery and unease, making it clear that this was just the beginning for an ambitious storyteller.
Though Golden Skull was his debut, it carried the hallmarks of Joao’s future work: an atmospheric approach to storytelling, a love for the eerie and supernatural, and a commitment to high-quality visual artistry. This project laid the foundation for what would become a prolific and diverse filmmaking career.
Short Films with Depth: Served Red and Rare and All That You Love Will Be Carried Away
Joao transitioned from animation to live-action storytelling with two highly regarded short films. Served Red and Rare (2022) delved into psychological tension, delivering a narrative that kept audiences on edge. The film explored themes of human fragility, fear, and survival, demonstrating Joao’s ability to craft suspenseful and emotionally charged stories.
In 2023, Joao directed All That You Love Will Be Carried Away, an adaptation of a Stephen King story. This project became a standout moment in Joao’s career, showcasing his skill in adapting complex narratives and remaining faithful to the source material’s emotional depth. The short received praise for its somber tone and meticulous character exploration, proving Joao’s ability to navigate the world of adaptations with precision and respect for the original work.
SlashFM Anthologies: Celebrating Horror
Joao’s love for the horror genre took center stage with his feature anthologies SlashFM (2022) and SlashFM II (2023). These Halloween-themed films brought together multiple tales of horror, suspense, and supernatural intrigue.
SlashFM became an instant favorite for its unique blend of traditional horror tropes and fresh, creative storytelling. Building on the success of the first installment, Joao returned with SlashFM II, which expanded the series by introducing even more inventive narratives and a heightened sense of terror.
These anthologies demonstrated Joao’s ability to collaborate with other creators, coordinate diverse storytelling styles, and maintain a cohesive tone across multiple stories. The SlashFM series solidified Joao’s place as a director who understands the genre and its fans, delivering films that are both thrilling and memorable.
The Ambitious Leap: Death Always Craves
In 2024, Joao embarked on his first original feature film, Death Always Craves, which is set for release in 2026. The story follows a young pregnant woman who visits her ailing mother, only to find herself entangled in supernatural events and dark family secrets tied to the house’s mysterious past.
Death Always Craves marks a turning point in Joao’s career. This film is more than just a supernatural thriller—it’s an exploration of family dynamics, generational trauma, and the haunting presence of the past. The project showcases Joao’s growth as a filmmaker, allowing him to delve deeper into complex narratives and create a feature-length film that resonates on multiple levels.
The anticipation surrounding Death Always Craves speaks to Joao’s ability to generate excitement and curiosity about his work. It’s a testament to his evolving artistry and his unwavering commitment to crafting films that captivate audiences.
Pushing Boundaries: Collaborations and Experiments
Joao’s career has been marked by collaborations with notable figures and ventures into experimental filmmaking. In January 2025, he worked with Rogério Skylab, a celebrated Brazilian musician and actor, on the short film Agatha Did Not Kill Her Psychiatrist. This intense psychological thriller unfolds in a therapy session where secrets turn a routine encounter into a dangerous game of manipulation.
Later in the same year, Joao completed Unread, an experimental screenlife film featuring Isabel Oberheim and a cameo from Edwin Neal, a horror icon best known for his role in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The film explores the story entirely through digital screens, showcasing Joao’s willingness to innovate and explore new storytelling formats.
These projects highlight Joao’s creative flexibility and his ability to bring unique perspectives to his work. By collaborating with iconic actors and experimenting with unconventional formats, Joao continues to challenge traditional filmmaking norms, ensuring his work remains fresh and thought-provoking.
Looking Ahead: A Future in Slashers
Joao’s next ventures include two slasher feature films, The Tenth Night and Viral. Both projects promise to build on his expertise in crafting suspense and his deep love for the horror genre.
The Tenth Night is set to explore the terror of the unknown, blending atmospheric storytelling with visceral scares. Meanwhile, Viral will delve into the intersection of modern technology and horror, offering a contemporary take on the genre. These upcoming films reflect Joao’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of horror while staying true to the genre’s roots.
With these projects, Joao aims to deliver experiences that are as emotionally engaging as they are terrifying, further establishing his reputation as a filmmaker who understands the intricacies of fear and suspense.
A Legacy of Creativity and Passion
Joao Augusto De Nardo’s journey as a filmmaker is defined by his relentless passion, creative vision, and dedication to storytelling. From his early work in animation to his ambitious feature films, Joao has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take risks and explore new ideas.
His ability to blend emotional depth with suspenseful narratives has earned him recognition as one of Brazil’s most exciting filmmakers. By embracing both collaboration and experimentation, Joao continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in cinema, ensuring his work resonates with audiences around the world.
As he looks to the future, Joao’s focus remains on creating stories that leave a lasting impact. Whether through horror, psychological thrillers, or experimental projects, Joao Augusto De Nardo is a filmmaker whose work is sure to inspire, captivate, and challenge audiences for years to come.
