MPI alum Andrew Koltuniuk has always been drawn to stories about connection and transformation. A graduate in film directing, Andrew has spent the past several years honing his craft across ten short films and multiple features, each exploring the complexities of human relationships and unlikely friendships. His drive to tell authentic, character-driven stories ultimately led him to the Moving Picture Institute (MPI), a partnership that helped shape the next phase of his creative journey. 

Andrew first encountered MPI at Sundance in 2020, where he learned about the Institute’s dedication to developing filmmakers who bring fresh perspectives on freedom and individual responsibility to the screen. Later that year, he joined the Hollywood Career Launch Program (HCLP), gaining firsthand experience in the entertainment industry while deepening his understanding of MPI’s mission. “The internship taught me the importance of connecting not only with established professionals but also with peers who are just starting out,” Andrew said. “Those relationships continue to shape my career.” His time in the Concept to Treatment Workshop further refined his storytelling process. “I completely changed the way I write,” he shared. “The workshop showed me the value of developing a strong treatment—it’s become a foundation for everything I create.”

Andrew’s debut feature film, Letting Go of Jack, is a heartfelt coming-of-age road drama about grief, self-discovery, and emotional freedom. When Brandon’s faulty Ford Bronco dies in the middle of his escape to Colorado, he crosses paths with Amber, an outspoken hitchhiker running from her small town. Together, they confront loss, find unexpected friendship, and begin to understand what it means to let go—without forgetting. 

Over two and a half years, Andrew and his team raised $100,000 from private investors, produced the film, and secured distribution on Amazon in 11 countries. The project also became a reunion of MPI filmmakers, as HCLP fellows Rachael Workman and Catherine Koltuniuk joined the crew as producer/first assistant director and script supervisor, respectively. “MPI helped me build the foundation that made this film possible,” Andrew reflected. “Working alongside people I met through the program reminded me why these connections matter—because we’re all building toward the same goal.”

Now, Andrew is channeling his experience into new projects. He’s writing another coming-of-age story that explores personal freedom and family, and he’s set to serve as director of photography on an upcoming romantic comedy. He also plans to continue participating in MPI’s filmmaker development programs. “I’ve learned that filmmaking is a team effort, built on trust and shared growth,” he said. “That’s something MPI instilled in me early on.” Through his films and ongoing collaboration with MPI, Andrew exemplifies the Institute’s commitment to growing a strong network of talented filmmakers whose stories invite audiences to reflect, connect, and find freedom in the process of discovery.