- Graduate of the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California, where he received a Presidential Scholarship and a Dean's Scholarship.
- Rotary Club Milano Scala - Best Director for the film Hopeful Notes.
- 2010 International Social Commitment Awards - Best Director for the film Hopeful Notes.
- Frequently uses music sequences with no dialogue.
- Premiered his films at prestigious festivals and locations (i.e. the Giffoni Film Festival and the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood).
- Is the first Italian director to have a film promoted in McDonald's Happy Meals.
- Worked with professional actors as well as world-famous athletes (Dennis Rodman, Fabio Cannavaro, Luis Figo), singers (Anastacia, Iva Zanicchi), and dancers (Fernando Sosa and the Tropical Gem).
- Directed Italian icon Paolo Villaggio in his last on-screen performance.
- Replaced John G. Avildsen (director of Rocky), who was originally attached to direct The Minis.
- His films often feature outcasts and underdogs, who fight personal battles and go "from zero to hero".
- Received 3 degrees from Santa Monica College.
- Worked on the creative aspects of the videogame based on his first film.
- Directed 5 Academy Award winners in the film Not To Forget.
- Is the creator of the projects Let's Make a Difference and Helping Vegas.
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