James Shani
- Producer
- Executive
James "Maz" Shani is an Iranian-American film producer and talent manager. He has built a reputation for "cultivating lasting creative collaborations with new and established filmmakers." In 2022, Shani joined the leadership team at ColorCreative, part of Issa Rae's Hoorae Media, where he represents writers and directors.
Shani has partnered with numerous up-and-coming filmmakers on their debut feature films. He executive produced GULLY starring Jonathan Majors and Kelvin Harrison in 2019, directed by acclaimed hip-hop music video director, Nabil. The film premiered at Tribeca Film festival and sold to Paramount Pictures.
While TV/Film is Shani's core passion, he has also partnered with the most acclaimed directors to produce music videos for artists including Lady Gaga, Tyler the Creator, John Legend, H.E.R, Nas, Snoh Aalegra, and many others, earning two VMA nominations along the way.
Shani is passionate about shining a light on global mental health awareness: he's worked closely with Lady Gaga and her Born This Way Foundation to create impact films, including the documentary special Power of Kindness.