Backyard Productions has added directors Mac Eldridge and John M. Lopez to its roster for commercial representation in the U.S. Prior to joining Backyard, both filmmakers were most recently working freelance, independently taking on projects.   

Eldridge is a multidisciplinary director with an extensive background in crafting films, branded content, and commercials. Known for bringing his visual style and narrative-driven storytelling to the sporting industry, Eldridge has been sought out by leading agencies and brands--the latter including The PGA Tour, Shell, Pandora, Bridgestone, Avis, and Chobani. He has directed renowned athletes such as Tiger Woods, Ja Morant and John Daly.

In his 16-year directorial career, Lopez has lent his unique vision and immersive style to music videos and feature films, while also producing and directing commercials for brands such as Nike, McDonald’s, Canon, DirecTV, Radio Shack and Michelob.  

In addition to directing online documentaries for Cadillac, Glenfiddich, and Heineken, Lopez has written and directed three feature films: The Inquisition of Camilo Sanz, which was acquired and released by HBO Latino; The Hudson Tribes, acquired and distributed by The Orchard and released on Amazon Prime; and most recently Paradise City.

“We work with brands and agencies that continually push the envelope, and that leaves it on us to reinforce their efforts with the top creative talent and directorial firepower,” said Backyard CEO Kevin Allodi. “Mac is incredibly well-versed across formats, and his passion for the craft shines in every project he undertakes. His ability to deliver authentic performances across talent while going above and beyond expectations is second to none.” 

Backyard EP, head of sales Rich Schafler described Lopez as “an innovative, vibrant director overflowing with ambition and vision that he brings to the table in every endeavor. He is not only an inspired commercial director who’s worked with some of the most recognizable global brands, but also skilled at creating compelling long-form stories that leave audiences captivated.”

Eldridge and Lopez join a Backyard lineup which also includes Greg Popp, Jeff Aron Lable, Xander Strohm, Julia Ngeow, Paul Stone, Patrick Creadon, Kanyessa McMahon, Jasmin Kuhn, Lorenzo deGuia, and Eric Kiel.