Eric Dean Freese has spent more than 20 years supporting independent filmmaking in Iowa as a filmmaker, organizational leader, communicator, and advocate for the state’s production community.

Growing up in a small town in eastern Iowa, his interest in filmmaking started at age 7, creating stop-motion with Hot Wheels cars and a Sears Super 8 camera. His passion for art, theater, film, and storytelling eventually led him to the University of Iowa. After graduating with a degree in Studio Art, Eric spent a decade as an ad agency art director, also serving as the small company’s video production department.

In 2002, he became involved with the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival, helping support and grow the organization during its early years. His desire to make motion pictures sent him back to the University of Iowa, to earn a Cinema degree in 2004.

Eric stepped away from CRIFF following the 2008 festival to focus on filmmaking and family - including his wife, and two sons who share his passion for creative expression. He returned to CRIFF in 2019 and has been Festival Director since 2022, helping lead the organization’s continued growth, outreach, and support of independent filmmakers. Eric served on the board of the Iowa Motion Picture Association from 2003 to 2012, and rejoined in 2022. He currently holds the office of IMPA Vice President.

Since 2011, Eric has been Senior Editor & Videographer at Wired Production Group in Cedar Rapids, producing regional and national corporate and commercial video, shooting and directing live events, and creating long and short-form documentaries.

Over the years, Eric has been fortunate to have worked on several award-winning shorts, features, and docs in a variety of creative and technical roles. While documentary filmmaking is his creative passion, Eric also devotes time to helping others share their stories; especially filmmakers who may not yet have the resources, experience, or opportunities to be seen and heard. He places great value in forging connections between creatives, encouraging collaboration, and helping build a stronger and more welcoming Iowa filmmaking community.