One time a guy gave Laura some unsolicited advice on how to beat a shark. He said the first thing you do is cut yourself to attract it, then you get real close and BANG! you sucker punch it in the nose. Needless to say, this guy was an idiot. Luckily, Laura is not. She hasn’t gone out looking for a fight with a shark, but she does consider this an apt metaphor for directing comedy. Don’t force the funny and then bang people over the head with it. Find the most clever and funny way to execute a concept by elevating it with beautiful cinematography, unique casting, and nuanced performance. 

Laura has immense experience working with seasoned improv actors and stand-up comedians. Her career began at MTV writing and directing celebrity-packed campaigns before she moved out west and dove head first into commercials and the longer form world. Laura has directed feature films as well as sketch and scripted comedy series such as “Last Week Tonight with Jon Oliver” for HBO, “The Iliza Shlesinger Sketch Show” for Netflix, “Now We’re Talking” for the CW, “Adam Ruins Everything” for Tru TV and an updated version of “Weekend at Bernie’s” for MGM that we’re hoping might come out someday.  She has also directed commercial campaigns for brands like Geico, Truth, and McDonald’s, because according to her “it really is just the most fun”.

In closing, don’t fight a shark unless you find yourself in the middle of the ocean and have to, but hopefully you never do.”