Was a member (1976-1978) of Local 399/Transportation, learning the film trade from the ground up.
Has worked on other projects, not included in his credits, Disney/Coppola/Lucasfilm starring Michael Jackson, Captain EO in 3D which ran at Disney Land for 17 years.
Mitchell's Uncle was the late Max Factor.
Was a paid mentor for the Nuts and Bolts production seminar teaching, scheduling, and budgeting.
A devastating car accident in 1991 abruptly halted his rising career.
Mitchell worked with his brother, Peter J. Novak, at the beginning of Peter's career.
Mitchell's father, Alan Jay Factor (stage name Alan Frost), was a producer, director and actor of TV and Film.
Has worked in a DGA capacity for all the major studios since becoming a member in 1978.
In 2015, Mitchell hired screenwriter Sue Romansik to write a treatment, "A Life Not Lived". They are currently collaborating on multiple projects.
Has directed principal photography, second unit, and split unit stunts.