Her Story
About Setareh
Setareh Samandari, PhD, VES, is an award-winning director, writer, producer, and visual effects (VFX) and artificial intelligence (AI) supervisor with nine years of experience in filmmaking, production, and visual effects. She is the Founder, CEO, and Head of Production at Interdimensional VFX, where she develops innovative production workflows that combine AI with traditional visual effects to advance cinematic storytelling. She also serves as Executive Producer at Rivet Productions LLC, contributing her creative vision and production expertise to projects that push the boundaries of film and entertainment technology.
Setareh began her professional journey with an interest in law, political science, and human rights, inspired by her personal experiences growing up in Iran as a member of the Bahá’í community. After relocating to the United States to pursue educational opportunities, she earned a master’s degree in political science and government from California State University, Northridge, and pursued advanced studies in film and philosophy at the European Graduate School. Her transition into filmmaking began while volunteering on a human rights documentary, where she discovered the power of visual storytelling to influence society and challenge established perspectives. She subsequently trained in visual effects at the NOMAN School of Visual Effects and expanded her expertise into directing, producing, and emerging AI-driven production technologies. She also authored The Disruption of the Circle in Film, Language, and Other Cocoons, exploring how creative expression and critical thought can challenge familiar perceptions and encourage independent thinking.
Throughout her career, Setareh has championed multidisciplinary collaboration, ethical innovation, and supportive production environments that empower artists to achieve their best work. Her film Limit Exceeded has received recognition at film festivals, including an award for Best Sci-Fi at the Cannes Women Short Film Festival, and has been selected for other festival programs. She has also shared her expertise in hybrid visual effects, AI, and live-action filmmaking at the VIEW Conference, contributing to conversations about the future of cinematic storytelling. Through Interdimensional VFX, she is committed to supporting independent filmmakers, particularly women in the industry, while building collaborative teams that unite creativity, technology, and philosophical inquiry to create meaningful visual experiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Setareh
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to think independently, communicate clearly, ask questions, and seek the truth through my own research. As a woman in my field, I’ve had to work harder to establish myself, but the guidance of a supportive male mentor taught me to remain open-minded and approach challenges with confidence.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to learn the fundamentals of your industry, understand established practices, and then have the confidence to become leaders and create new paths. Embrace emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality, and actively engage with the companies developing them. Rather than fearing that technology will replace you, contribute your ideas, provide feedback, and help shape the future of your industry.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field lie in pushing creative and technical boundaries by developing innovative visual effects techniques and production pipelines that enhance storytelling. I’m also passionate about empowering women and supporting independent projects, which inspired me to establish an interdimensional VFX company that creates opportunities for greater creativity, collaboration, and representation in the industry.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Ethics, collaboration, cooperation, and unity in diversity are the values that guide me in my professional and personal life. I believe in working together toward meaningful goals, building strong communities, and finding purpose in everything I do. I value collaborating with people who share these principles and are committed to making a positive impact rather than simply completing tasks.
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