Welcome to ACE Films 

I don’t just work in film—It’s where I dream.

Anthony 'ACE' Cabral Filmmaker, Assistant Director, Educator, Advocate

Behind the Call Sheet: My Story

I’m Anthony “ACE” Cabral, a Latinx filmmaker and First Assistant Director with nearly 30 years of experience bringing stories to life on set. Raised in St. Louis, shaped by my Brazilian roots, and now based in Chicago, I’m a proud product of many worlds. Film is where they all come together. It’s my career, my passion, and my escape—where I still laugh, gasp, and dream just like I did as a kid sitting wide-eyed in a movie theater.

🎬 Career Highlights

I’ve worked on everything from indie festival favorites to major studio projects, including Disney’s “Christmas Again” & “Saturdays”, as well as projects for Hulu & Netflix, and I’m a proud member of the Directors Guild of America (DGA), Producers Guild of America (PGA), and SAG-AFTRA. My short film Broke Juke screened during the Cannes Film Festival in the Cannes Court Métrage, and joining the DGA remains one of my most personal career milestones.

🎥 Filmmaker & First AD Perspective

While I’m widely recognized as a top-tier First AD, I carry the soul of a director. I know what a filmmaker needs—because I am one.

⚡ On-Set Presence & Leadership Style

I’m often called the “emotional thermostat.” I lead with energy, clarity, and purpose. I keep people safe, informed, and inspired—from the first call to the final wrap. I believe in old-school work ethic and new-school tools. I’m “all go, no quit,” but I never lose sight of the team around me. If you’re a young crew member, I’ll take time to teach you. If you’re a producer, I’ll deliver your vision with precision. If you’re a director, I’ve got your back from shot one to picture wrap.

🌍 Cultural Roots & Identity

My heritage runs deep in everything I do. My father came to this country from Brazil, and I carry his spirit—hardworking, optimistic, determined to build something lasting. The name “Cabral” means keeper of goats, and I wear it proudly. On set, I shepherd the story, the schedule, and the people—leading with heart and direction. Like Pedro Álvares Cabral, the explorer who charted new paths, I venture boldly into the unknown with each project I take on.

🤝 Mentorship & Industry Advocacy

Off set, I serve on the DGA’s Eastern AD/UPM Council and am a proud member of several committees, including the Latino Committee and Eastern Diversity Steering Committee. I teach Production Assistant Training Programs, volunteer at the Sundance Film Festival, and speak at film schools and festivals across the country. Building the next generation of filmmakers isn’t a side project—it’s part of who I am.

🎯 What I Offer

Whether you’re looking for a seasoned 1st AD, a creative collaborator, a consultant, or a speaker—I’m here to bring clarity, momentum, and soul to your production.

👉 Let’s connect or see what I’m working on now

🎬 Credits

Thanks for visiting!
My full credits page is currently being developed to include a curated, visual showcase of my work across film, television, and commercial productions.

In the meantime, you can view my complete list of credits on IMDb by clicking the button below.

I appreciate your patience—check back soon for a more detailed look at the stories I’ve helped bring to life.

Visit my IMDb page for now

 

🎬 Services

With over 30 years in film, television, and video production, I bring deep experience, flexibility, and a strong sense of collaboration to every project—no matter the scale.

 

My work spans behind-the-scenes production support and public-facing opportunities—ideal for producers, collaborators, educators, and industry teams looking to bring in someone with a clear voice and proven results. Whether you’re building a crew, planning an event, or just looking to start a conversation, I’m ready to jump in.

🛠️ Production Services

  • 🎬 On-Set Leadership
    First Assistant Directing (DGA)
    Leadership for features, series, commercials, and branded content—focused on safety, efficiency, and clear communication from prep through wrap.
  • 📋 Pre-Production Support
    Script Breakdown & Scheduling
    Custom breakdowns and timelines for projects in development, including scheduling tools and day-out-of-days.
  • 🧠 Strategic Creative Consultation
    Creative Production Consultation
    Collaborative support for directors, producers, and creatives who want strategic insight on how to align vision with execution.

🎤 Public-Facing Opportunities

  • 🗣️ Speaking & Mentorship
    Educational Speaking & Mentorship
    Guest lectures, panels, and training programs for schools, festivals, or industry orgs.
  • 🎟️ Festivals & Events
    Festival Panels & Industry Conversations
    Available for speaking opportunities at festivals, guild events, or film orgs seeking AD/director insights.
  • 📰 Media Interviews
    Media & Interviews
    Open to commentary, profiles, and interviews related to filmmaking, leadership, or Latino/Brazilian creative voices.
🤝 Let’s Connect

Whether you’re hiring for your next production, planning a panel, or just looking to start a conversation, I’d love to connect.

📅 Schedule a Discovery Call – For quick meetings, questions, or to explore working together
📩 Contact Me Directly – For formal inquiries, proposals, or invitations
I’m open to representation and collaboration opportunities with agents, managers, or media platforms looking to work with a production-savvy creative voice.

Contact ACE Films

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Name
Let me know who’s reaching out — first and last, please.
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Choose the option that best fits your reason for reaching out. Whether you’re looking to hire me for a production, need scheduling support, want to book a speaking engagement, or just want to collaborate — I’d love to hear from you.
Tell me more — feel free to include project details, timelines, or any specific questions you have.