Tim Cruz is a Filipino American director and writer whose work blends genre filmmaking with deeply personal themes. Born in Manila and raised in New Jersey, Cruz began his career in music videos and commercials, collaborating with global artists including Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, 50 Cent, and Thirty Seconds to Mars, as well as brands like Google, Apple Music, and Hot Wheels. His background in visual storytelling shaped his bold, kinetic style that is now central to his work in feature films.

Cruz’s recent features include Don’t Let the Cat Out (2025), a horror comedy that premiered at Panic Fest and screened at FrightFest London where it earned praise for its inventive mix of grief, possession, and dark humor. His previous film Ladybug (2024), a queer supernatural horror that premiered at London’s FrightFest, was recognized for its haunting meditation on intimacy, longing, and creative isolation. Earlier credits include The Final Rose and What Happens in Miami, both breakout titles on Tubi where Cruz has built a reputation for crafting resourceful, character driven stories that connect with audiences.

Critics have described Cruz’s work as inventive and daring, with Don’t Let the Cat Out celebrated as a genre standout with heart and Ladybug praised for its dreamlike and atmospheric power. His films have established him as a distinctive voice in contemporary independent cinema, weaving Filipino American identity, personal loss, and social satire into genre frameworks.

Cruz is currently developing several new projects including the youth ensemble slasher Rager, the horror feature Youth Group, the workplace comedy series The Chateau, and a modern dance infused romantic comedy inspired by Pride and Prejudice. Across all formats Cruz remains focused on character, emotion, and the collision of humor and horror.