Joana Caiano: Award-Winning Commercial and Narrative Film Director

Joana Caiano is a Portuguese film director, writer, and cinematographer known for her distinct visual aesthetics and satirical storytelling. Based between the creative hubs of London and Lisbon, Joana Caiano develops works that navigate the intersection of social commentary and character-driven comedy. After studying at Bournemouth Film School, she began her career in the camera department, working as an assistant on high-profile Netflix and commercial productions before transitioning into directing. Her commercial portfolio includes collaborations with international brands such as Nestlé, Hinge, and Compal, while her music video work often features collaborations with artist Ana Lua Caiano. Joana Caiano’s narrative projects, including the short films 42 and Lives at Steak, have earned recognition at festivals like the 1.4 Awards and Porto Femme. Currently, Joana Caiano is involved in the post-production of her debut feature documentary, A Cabeça Não é um Sítio Seguro, and is developing several narrative features. Her work is celebrated for its rigorous composition, nuanced pacing, and ability to provoke dialogue on social and political dilemmas through an engaging, often humorous, cinematic lens. By focusing on the emotional grounding of her performers and the visual rhythm of her frames, Joana Caiano continues to build a multidisciplinary body of work that resonates with global audiences and industry professionals alike.