dr-john

John Osborne

John, dr-john, Doc – I’m a writer, producer, film programmer, and juror. For over a decade, I’ve run an active film production company in the village of Mendocino, on the stunning Northern California coast. The town is small and charming, nestled in a landscape that’s both uplifting and awe-inspiring. It may be chilly at times, but it’s breathtakingly beautiful. The community here is full of kind, creative people, and the food scene is excellent!

The rainbow is out of sight.

The film industry, both here and elsewhere, is a big part of my life. I’ve worked on several feature films and some shorts. I’m currently very busy producing a hybrid animated/live-action short film titled 13 Seconds. I’m collaborating closely with composer and director Matthew Ferraro. Shortly after the Twin Towers fell, the Red Cross invited Mr. Ferraro to New York to interview survivors. Over six weeks, he recorded their testimonies, eventually transforming those voices into a powerful orchestral composition. We’re now adapting it into a short film — intense, emotional, and timely. We’re actively seeking finishing funds and believe the film will have a significant impact.

Rooftop flags and workers – post 9/11

Much of my time is also devoted to film festivals. I serve as Associate Programmer at the American Documentary and Animation Film Festival (AmDocs) in Palm Springs, founded by Teddy Grouya. It’s an incredibly filmmaker-friendly event. In addition to programming, I participate as a panelist, moderator, and filmmaker liaison. Each year, I travel to Europe to scout new films for our five-day March lineup. These international connections have enriched my perspective and broadened my understanding of global issues. 

Before working with AmDocs, however, I was deeply involved with the Mendocino Film Festival — as a volunteer, board member, interviewer, and program moderator. I’ve helped showcase directors and producers, coordinated musical guests, and contributed to the festival’s dynamic, contagious energy.

Pierce Brosnan, Michael Fox, I standing in front of the Mendocino Festival Tent.

Earlier in my career, I was a college professor, developing and teaching courses in English, Film, and the Humanities. I also led a study abroad program to Italy. Teaching film was a major passion, and my time in the graduate film program at San Francisco State laid a strong foundation. But working on location for major studio productions gave me a real-world crash course in movie-making that swept me off my feet.

Another wonderful aspect of my life in the Mendocino area has come from the wine industry. Thanks to the Mendocino Film Festival’s Cinema in the Vineyards program, I met winemaker Van Williamson. After a film screening about wine, he was part of a forum that discussed the terroir of nearby Anderson Valley, our wine country. I learned a lot. We later ran into each other in a local restaurant and started a conversation. I’ve been a Tasting Room Associate for Witching Stick Wines ever since! I’m enamored by the possibility of making a wine-themed film. Cheers!