J.J. Alani, also known as J. Jonroy Alani, is a multi-talented individual with a rich background in the film industry. Born in Sulaymani, Alani is a dual American and British citizen who is fluent in English and French, and also has a working knowledge of Spanish, Portuguese, and three Middle Eastern languages.
Alani's professional journey began in the late 1980s, when he studied at the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and TV and the USC School of Cinematic Arts. He later moved to New York, where he taught and worked for 15 years, including a stint as a coach for graduate students at the Graduate Department of New York University Film School.
In the 1990s, Alani became a member of the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) in New York. He went on to write, produce, and direct several films, including the political romantic comedy "David & Layla" (2005) and the drama love story "Beyond Paradise" (2015).
"David & Layla" was a critical and commercial success, winning eight awards and receiving praise from notable figures such as Nobel laureate Harold Pinter. The film was also an official selection at 29 international film festivals, including the Mons Festival International Du Film D'Amour and the Cabourg Romantic Films Festival.
Alani's subsequent films, including "Beyond Paradise" and "Margreet" (2015),have also received critical acclaim and have been official selections at major film festivals such as Cannes and the Mon International Films d' Amour.
In addition to his work in film, Alani has also worked as a fashion photographer in London and Paris and has lived and worked in several countries, including Paris, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, San Francisco, and Medellin/Colombia.
Currently, Alani is in pre-production on a new feature film, "Au-Delà du Paradis", a French-UK-Georgia co-production. He is also developing a 12-episode TV series based on the Epic of Gilgamesh, which he hopes to produce with Netflix or Amazon.
Throughout his career, Alani has demonstrated a versatility and adaptability that has allowed him to thrive in a variety of roles and settings. His unique blend of creative talent, business acumen, and cultural expertise has made him a respected figure in the film industry.
