Geralyn Dreyfous stands as a prominent figure in the landscape of documentary filmmaking and social impact. Her distinguished background in the arts and extensive experience in philanthropic consulting have converged to make her a powerful advocate for using film as a catalyst for change. As the founder and board chair of the Utah Film Center and co-founder of Impact Partners Film Fund, Dreyfous has dedicated her career to supporting filmmakers who are not only storytellers but also agents of societal progress. Her early career at the Philanthropic Initiative in Boston, guiding wealthy families in strategic giving, and her time teaching Documentary and Narrative writing at Harvard University with Dr. Robert Coles, laid a strong foundation for her impactful journey.
The establishment of Impact Partners Film Fund in 2007, alongside Dan Cogan, marked a significant milestone in Dreyfous’s career. Recognizing the potent combination of compelling storytelling and financial backing, Impact Partners was conceived to bridge the gap between financiers and filmmakers. The fund’s core mission is to foster the creation of exceptional films that not only resonate with audiences on an emotional level but also ignite critical conversations and inspire tangible social change. This innovative approach to film financing underscores Dreyfous’s belief in the transformative power of cinema.
Impact Partners has an impressive portfolio, having been instrumental in financing over 70 films. This includes several Academy Award-winning and nominated documentaries, such as THE COVE (2010 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature), THE GARDEN (2009 Academy Award nominee), FREEHELD (2008 Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Film), and HELL AND BACK AGAIN (2012 Academy Award nominee). Beyond these accolades, Impact Partners has supported films that have garnered recognition at prestigious film festivals, including E-TEAM, THE OVERNIGHTERS, and ALIVE INSIDE: A STORY OF MUSIC & MEMORY, all celebrated at the Sundance Film Festival. These films exemplify the fund’s commitment to supporting diverse narratives and filmmakers who tackle pressing social issues.
Dreyfous’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the film industry is further demonstrated by her role as a founding member of Gamechanger in 2013. Gamechanger distinguishes itself as the first for-profit film fund exclusively dedicated to financing narrative features directed by women. Their inaugural film, LAND HO!, premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, signaling a crucial step towards gender parity in filmmaking.
Beyond her work with Impact Partners and Gamechanger, Dreyfous’s individual producing and executive producing credits are equally remarkable. She has been associated with acclaimed films such as the Academy Award-winning BORN INTO BROTHELS, Emmy-nominated THE DAY MY GOD DIED, and the Academy Award-nominated and Emmy Award-winning THE SQUARE. Her filmography also includes THE INVISIBLE WAR, a Peabody Award winner and Academy Award nominee, and numerous film festival favorites like MISS REPRESENTATION, MEET THE PATELS, and THE HUNTING GROUND. Her ongoing projects, including WAIT FOR ME and BE NATURAL, further solidify her dedication to impactful storytelling.
Geralyn Dreyfous’s contributions to documentary filmmaking have not gone unnoticed. She was honored with the Amicus Award by the International Documentary Association in 2013, a testament to her profound impact on the field. Variety magazine also recognized her in their 2014 Women’s Impact Report, underscoring her significant influence within the entertainment industry. Through Impact Partners and her broader body of work, Geralyn Dreyfous continues to champion films that not only entertain but also educate, inspire, and drive meaningful social change, solidifying her legacy as a true force for good in the world of cinema.
