Carl Effenson

Carl Effenson is a distinguished independent film producer renowned for his ability to bring compelling and socially impactful stories to life. His credits include critically acclaimed films such as Netflix’s Mudbound, directed by Dee Rees and starring Carey Mulligan, Mary J. Blige, Jason Clarke, and Garrett Hedlund. Mudbound received four Academy Award nominations and won both the Humanitas Prize and the Robert Altman Award at the 2018 Independent Spirit Awards. It was hailed as the Best Picture of the Year by both the Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times.

In 2024, Carl executive produced Bob Trevino Likes It, starring Euphoria breakout Barbie Ferreira and John Leguizamo. The film premiered at the SXSW Film Festival, winning both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award to widespread critical acclaim, including a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score. The film is set for a theatrical release by Roadside Attractions in early 2025.

His film, Mending the Line, stars award-winning actor Brian Cox, Sinqua Walls, and Wes Studi. Released by Sony Pictures in September 2023, the film explores the therapeutic power of fly fishing for veterans with PTSD. It quickly became a global success on Netflix in March 2024, reaching the platform’s #1 spot within days.

Carl recently wrapped production on Maybe We Should, an inspirational family film starring Heather Graham, Jeremy John Wells, Kevin Nealon, and Lil Rel Howery. Based on a true story, the film portrays the Castriota family’s mission to create Leg Up Farm, a pioneering therapy center for children with special needs in rural Pennsylvania. The production partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granting five children the opportunity to participate in a feature film.

His previous works include Hide Away, starring Josh Lucas and James Cromwell, which won the Grand Jury Prize for Cinematography at SXSW, and Joe Dante’s Burying the Ex, featuring Anton Yelchin, Alexandra Daddario, and Ashley Greene.

Carl's films have premiered at top festivals like Sundance, Toronto, Venice, London, and SXSW. Known for bringing meaningful stories to the screen, he continues to focus on creating engaging, heartfelt, and memorable films that connect with audiences everywhere.