The Climb of the Shoeshiner

Ian Ruas is a director, cinematographer and music producer from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with 16 years of experience in film, music, and performing arts. He holds degrees in Fine Arts, Music, and Entrepreneurship from The New School University in New York, as well as in Film Direction from the International Film Academy in São Paulo. Ian combines the independent style of Latin American cinema with classical narratives and refined visuals, influenced by his 15 years in the United States, where he honed his craft alongside top professionals. He has produced and directed films, series, and commercials in over 10 countries, earning awards and nominations at festivals such as Gramado, Festival do Rio, and Cine Ceará. His major projects include The Key to the Enchanted Valley (Director of Photography), De Sonhos e Segredos (Co-Director of Photography), and the webserie Lendas e Canções de um Viajante (Director, Director of Photography, and Editor). "The Climb of a Shoeshiner" is his first feature movie signing as a Director. He also wrote and edited the movie, besides composing and performing the soundtrack alongside brazilian MPB artist Oswaldo Montenegro.