David Siev

David Siev is a first-generation Cambodian-Mexican-American filmmaker known for his work in documentary cinema and narrative storytelling. After graduating from the University of Michigan film school, Siev relocated from rural Michigan to Los Angeles, where he joined Gorilla Flicks, the production company led by Jeff Tremaine. Siev has held producing, camera, and consulting roles on projects including the hidden-camera comedy "Bad Trip" on Netflix and the rock and roll biopic "The Dirt," also on Netflix.

Siev made his directorial debut with the narrative short "Year Zero," inspired by his father's escape from Cambodia. The film, which explores survival during the Cambodian Killing Fields, received recognition from festivals such as DC Asian Pacific American Film Festival, Vancouver Asian Film Festival, and Manhattan International Film Festival.

Siev's feature documentary "Bad Axe" follows an Asian American family in rural Michigan as they navigate challenges including racial tensions, community division, and intergenerational trauma linked to Cambodia's history. The film received honors at SXSW, was recognized by the Critics' Choice Awards, and was shortlisted for the Academy Award. "Bad Axe" has been featured in Variety, Rolling Stone, and The Hollywood Reporter. Siev received the Social Justice Award at the Critics' Choice Celebration of Asian Pacific Cinema and Television for his work raising awareness about the Asian American diaspora.

Siev is the founder of Baker's Dozen Films, a creative studio focused on cinematic storytelling across motion pictures and branded content in the technology and digital sectors. He has delivered a TED Talk on the impact of representation in storytelling and has spoken at institutions including Harvard, Cornell, and Georgetown on narrative's role in cultural change. Based in New York City, Siev continues to develop narrative and documentary projects that explore themes of identity, social impact, and the Asian American experience.