Biografia
Edilberto Restino (Restini) is a multi award-winning film director, actor, and sociologist, recognized for his distinctive visual style and socially engaged storytelling. With over 27 international awards, he is among the most decorated independent filmmakers in both the United Kingdom and Brazil. In 2009-2010, Restino directed Beijo de Morena (A Brunette Kiss), collaborating with BAFTA-winning cinematographer Tony Imi, Oscar-winning composer Stephen Warbeck, and producers Rupesh Paresh and Paul E. Brooker. The film received multiple honors, including Best Director at the Rob Knox Film Festival, Best Visual Award at the Limelight Film Awards, and Grand Prix, Best Set Design, and Best Performance at the EOTP International Film Festival. His short film Red Letter (2008), produced in the UK, became the first Brighton Film Studios production selected by the British Society of Cinematographers to premiere at Pinewood Studios' "New Cinematographers Night." The film went on to win 19 awards across the UK and USA, including multiple Best Director and Best Short Film titles, and inspired three American adaptations. Restino also served as Director of Photography on the feature film Scandalous Four, which won awards at both the California International Film Festival and the London Independent Film Festival, later being acquired by Netflix. A lifelong advocate for animal rights and environmental causes, Restino has been vegan since the age of 18. He previously worked as Director of Communication for Projeto Planeta Verde and Vice President of SOS Fauna Brazil, leading campaigns against wildlife trafficking and deforestation. Originally from Brazil, Restino began his career as a photographer and actor, later branching into choreography, advertising, and writing - authoring five books and developing the "Tango Puzzle" method for actors. He has also lived and volunteered in the UK, including four years working with adults with learning disabilities and two years at a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, where he deepened his studies in mindfulness and meditation.
