BIO
Mike Leonard is a filmmaker whose passion for storytelling has led him to a career as a director, producer & cinematographer working with some of the biggest names in the industry. In 2009, he created Over the Edge Productions, now a leading production company specializing in entertainment television, commercial advertising and branded content.
Television
Working with networks like Bravo, CBS, Discovery, MTV, NBC, truTV and others, Mike’s work has earned several Emmy® nominations and various other awards. His director credits span across multiple genres including period drama, sketch comedy and unscripted documentary programs.
Commercials & Branded Content
From commercial ads to branded content, Mike has worked with some of the biggest brands on the planet, directing work for clients like Adobe, Arm & Hammer, Chevrolet, Coca Cola, Dannon, Disney, Green Giant, Hunts, Marriott, NRG, Pepsi, Starbucks, Subway and Visa, to name a few. His success in the branded content space is largely due to his television background. Whether it’s a heart-warming surprise and delight, an epic, docu-style short film or a funny hidden camera prank, his experience creating entertaining and story-driven programs translate seamlessly to integrated brand-work. It’s all about telling a good story.
Film
Narrative story-telling has become Mike’s true love. His first film was commissioned by the Port Authority of NY & NJ which he wrote & directed. According to Plan is a short, romantic-comedy, filmed at the World Trade Center to attract more movies to film there.
His second film, Brave, is an action-drama about a rookie firefighter finding the meaning of bravery through his terminally-ill mother. Brave is currently waiting for film festivals to be in-person again to make it’s world premiere.
Early Career
Mike started his career wanting to be a cinematographer and eventually made a name for himself as such. Combined with his love for adventure, he developed a unique niche filming documentaries in various third world countries and remote locations all over the world. These projects were for charities looking to tell their story and took him all throughout South & Central America, Africa and Southeast Asia. This gave Mike a unique fluency of various cultures and an appreciation for the power of storytelling.
When Not Filming
When not filming, Mike enjoys outdoor adventure spots such as climbing, whitewater kayaking and Scuba. He is also a decorated firefighter, serving over 15 years in New Jersey. His wife, Allie; daughter, Charlie; and dog, Dr. Oliver, are his partners in crime.
