More About Michael

Michael Peterson is an acclaimed filmmaker, director, writer, and producer renowned for his innovative blend of practical effects, animation, and experimental techniques in storytelling. As the Director of Obscurum, he continues to push the boundaries of genre filmmaking with a focus on horror, action, and heartwarming narratives.

Peterson launched his career in the 1990s and early 2000s as a special makeup FX artist in Los Angeles, contributing to high-profile projects including Blade II, Van Helsing, and Big Momma’s House. In 2012, he pivoted to writing and directing, optioning his first screenplay—a reboot of the cult classic American Ninja—to a major studio, marking his first success as a writer.

Expanding into live theater, Peterson served as Artistic Director at the Haunted Mountain Theater, where he wrote, directed, and performed alongside local talent in groundbreaking mixed-media horror productions. These Halloween-season programs for all-ages audiences masterfully integrated 360° footage, animation, surround sound, and on-stage performances to weave haunting tales of terror drawn from Rocky Mountain folklore.

Throughout his career, Peterson has helmed commercials and short documentaries, showcasing his versatility in visual storytelling. His feature directorial debut, the 2022 drama The Year of the Dog—co-directed with Robert Grabow and Andrew McGinn—earned critical praise for its poignant exploration of redemption through an unlikely bond between a struggling alcoholic and a rescue dog. The film received the Special 10th Anniversary Award at the Chelsea Film Festival and screened at prestigious events including the Beloit International Film Festival, Arizona International Film Festival, and Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival.

Currently, Peterson serves as CEO, Lead Writer, and Director of Luck Dragon Media, a full-service animation studio specializing in dynamic commercials that fuse practical photographed action with animated elements, alongside fully animated short films. With over two decades in the industry, Peterson’s work continues to captivate audiences worldwide, bridging practical craftsmanship with cutting-edge digital innovation.