THE GRUFF STORY
A multi-cultural production company dedicated to telling raw, honest, and unforgettable stories. We believe the most compelling narratives aren’t polished to perfection; they’re rough, messy, and maybe a little dangerous…
Gruff Studios is built on the belief that a good story is a powerful story—and occasionally, a little inappropriate. We provide the creative vision and technical expertise needed to bring these tales to life (plus crafty, which is arguably just as important).
We’re passionate filmmakers committed to our craft, our audience, and to keeping things interesting. Proud to be part of the next generation of storytellers, we invite you to join us on our journey—LET’S GRUFF YOU UP.
THE GRUFF CREW
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TRISTAN AVERY THOMAS
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Tristan is the creative lead of Gruff Studios. As a multi-hyphenate filmmaker, he oversees the entire lifecycle of a production, from the initial concept and cinematography to the final edit and sound design. -
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RYAN LADAO
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
With experience as a director, producer, and 1st AD, Ryan brings a deep understanding of set dynamics and performer needs to every production. He is responsible for bridging the gap between creative ambition and operational reality, ensuring that projects are executed with precision, on schedule, and within budget. -
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SAM THOMAS
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
If things are getting intense on set, Sam is the one you want at the helm. With 6 years of experience as an ER nurse, Sam is a master of high-stress environments, bringing a level of composure and precision to our operations that you just can't teach.
