Filmmaker
"Life is about living out your best hero story, and media allows us to share our message. We all have a story to live, share, and shine in front or behind the camera."
Cherene Francis
Canadian filmmaker Cherene Francis weaves thought-provoking narratives exploring the intersection of psychology, philosophy, and the supernatural. Her academic background in Religious Studies (BA) provides a unique and insightful lens, infusing her projects with layers of meaning and authenticity.
Her directorial vision is showcased in the film The Cold Ride (2025), on which she also serves as an Associate Producer, currently touring the festival circuit. Her versatile producing credits span from narrative film to broadcast television. She produced the short film STAINED (2023), now in development as a feature, and independently produced two full seasons (24 episodes) of the talk show LEAP! (2017-2018). Featuring newsworthy entrepreneurs, the series aired on CHEX TV - Corus Entertainment, reaching audiences throughout Ontario. This hands-on production experience is complemented by her extensive work in front of the camera, with roles in numerous national commercials and notable film and TV series, including an acting role in a film selected for the prestigious 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF50).
What sets Cherene apart is her dual expertise as a savvy producer with a deep understanding of audience engagement. Leveraging years of experience in branding and digital marketing strategy, she doesn't just create compelling content—she builds dedicated communities around it. This rare combination of creative vision and strategic marketing ensures her projects not only get made but also find and connect with their intended audience.
Subscribe to Cherene's Mailing ListPROJECTS
THEÂ COLD RIDE (2025)
Cherene directed a sci-fi thriller. Touring film festivals in 2025.Â
The Cold Ride is based in 2064; future Toronto. Xen Feore, devastated by her daughter's death, seeks justice, believing engineer Elena Perdona is responsible. Xen kidnaps her through a rideshare app to end Elena's life but faces a tough truth: executing her plan may be more challenging than expected.
STAINED (2023)
Cherene produced STAINED which premiered in December 2023 at the Toronto Shorts International Film Festival. It is currently being developed as a feature film and is seeking investors, partners, and funding opportunities.
FEATURE FILM LOG LINE:Â A biracial teen, Charlotte, moves in with her unstable Jamaican grandmother and uncovers a disturbing truth haunting her mother's childhood home, leading to a mind-bending reality.
MANEATER (2026)
A short film concept about Anita Mann’s complex views on sex, love, and death leaves much to the imagination, and her therapist is about to discover how deep the rabbit hole goes.
Currently in post-production.
THE DARK SIDE
A feature documentary that delves into schizophrenia beyond the predominantly white Western medical research, uncovering valuable insights from African, Indian, and Indigenous cultures.
Currently in research and development, looking for stories, experts and insights.
TALK SHOW SERIES
Twenty-three 30-minute episodes broadcast on CHEX TV - Corus Entertainment across Ontario (2017 - 2018).
Leap! with Cherene Francis shares the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who have overcome the odds to launch and grow their businesses and serve the community.
WORK WITH CHERENE
