I’m Michael Rautio
I’m a Michigan native with a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, and I have a deep-rooted passion for storytelling and communications. As a writer, director, producer, cinematographer, editor, colorist, sound mixer, actor, and voice actor, I’ve gained experience in all areas of film production. I’m always excited to expand my skill set and contribute to the creative process.
My Favorites:
This production brought challenges, from COVID and budget constraints to crew setbacks. With just $500, our goal was clear: create something impactful, genuine, and emotionally resonant for both the team and the audience.
AWARD-WINNING SHORT FILM:
- Best Tiny Budget Film & Best Science Fiction: Symbiotic Film Festival
- Best Drama Short: HOLLYWOOD BLVD FILM FESTIVAL.
My Roles:
Writer – Director – Producer
Cinematographer – Editor
Post Supervisor.
Production Timeline:
Spring 2020-Fall 2022
With a tight turnaround, multiple costumes, and a scattered Michigan-based cast, this became my most ambitious production and edit yet. Balancing a full-time job and a challenging edit on limited tools, I’m proud of what I achieved.
It also marked my first use of AI voice filters and dynamic green screen backgrounds, made possible through meticulous planning of scenes and interactions.
My first western. Inspired by classics like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Once Upon a Time in the West. I aimed to honor the western genre while also modernizing it. Crafting a serious western centered around the viral challenge, ‘No Nut November’.
My first film as Writer, Producer, Director, Editor, and lead actor—filming even when I wasn’t on screen.
Inspired by the popular video game, Luigi’s Mansion, I crafted a low-budget horror short for spooky season.
TurtlePod
I launched TurtlePod in May 2021 to create high-quality comedy shorts. While the branding has evolved, my passion for making films hasn’t. Each project pushes me to improve, entertain audiences, and ensure the cast and crew enjoy the process. It’s all about creating stories we’re proud of.
@makinganepic
As of March 2024, I have been in the process of making and documenting a sci-fi epic. Inspired by religions all over the world, the mystery of our past, and our solar system.
Logline:
The rise, fall, and rebirth of the universe’s most powerful resource, siphon. When consumed by a living being, it grants the user two superpowers of their choosing, and if consumed consistently, eternal life. This story follows many characters, but only one survives all 6000 years. The mysterious leader of a utopian society deep beneath the surface of the earth, Panagiotis.
I plan to release several books, document progress on social media, then adapt the series into a comic and later an animated series, sharing updates along the way.
Digital Content Specialist
JP the Jeweler
I was hired as JP’s Media Specialist, managing all aspects of media production—lighting, filming, editing, and more. My work includes documentary videos on unique creations, appraisal photos, and producing a live show single-handedly.
For the live show, I handle production, camera operation (2-3 cameras), lighting, graphics, audio, soundboard design, and vMix operation. I even proposed and created an intro video to engage the audience while launching the multicast. Juggling multiple roles has been a rewarding challenge, fostering creativity in streamlining processes like the intro video to ensure smooth operations.
I’ve even launched my very own LLC under the name of Moments Refined. A fun side gig that hones my ability to work closely with clients and ensure that they receive exactly what they’re looking for. For more information, check out my business website!
(I even made the logo myself.)
