Michelle is a Los Angeles-based narrative director of heart-centered stories about self-discovery, connection, and hope - but always with a twist.

Her latest short drama, Lineage, starring Cailin Peluso (Law & Order: SVU) and Christopher Callen (Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas), is based on a true story about three generations of women and the secrets they navigate during the Great Depression. Lineage premiered at HollyShorts in 2025.

Her short dark comedy, Lesbophilia, starring Vico Ortiz (Our Flag Means Death) and Lana Parrilla (Once Upon A Time), is about radical acceptance within relationships even when extremely uncomfortable, winning Stage 32’s Short Film Contest, “Best Female Short Film" at FilmOut San Diego, and was an Official Selection at two Oscar-qualifying festivals (HollyShorts and Out On Film: Atlanta) in 2024.

Her short drama, Cosmic Love, premiered at the 2022 Pasadena International Film Festival and won "Best Female Empowerment" film at the San Diego International Film Awards.

With nearly two decades in entertainment, Michelle has experience as a producer, assistant director, and actor; is a graduate of the UCLA TFT Program for Acting; is a member of the DGA; and teaches at the Semester in LA program for Columbia College Chicago. For more info: www.itsmichellewest.com