Director and Writer Mary Dauterman Brings her Irreverent Humor to Sanctuary

Feb. 22, 2024

Bi-costal production house Sanctuary welcomes multi-faceted filmmaker Mary Dauterman to its talented directorial roster. Dauterman’s distinctive cinematic vision infuses unexpected comedic details into everyday scenarios, merging inspired visual elements with surprising characters, whimsical moments, and charming performances. She’s brought silly and stylish commercial films to life for brands including International Delight, Pinterest, Pirate’s Booty, e.l.f., José Cuervo, IHOP, and Casper

Originally from Texas, Dauterman's journey into directing began with her love for film, which flourished during her time as an agency creative at Wieden+Kennedy, Droga5, and CPB. Her strong narrative background informs an approach that transforms advertisements into entertaining and deliciously unusual stories, often dipping a toe into the surreal and absurd. Dauterman’s attention to visual cues from color theory to production design to wardrobe adds conceptual depth and nuance that gravitates towards the funny, thoughtful, and surprising.

Last year, Dauterman debuted her body horror comedy Booger, which was co-executive produced by Sanctuary alongside Ley Line Entertainment (Everything Everywhere All at Once) and Neon Heart (Shiva Baby). The feature premiered to great acclaim at the Fantasia Film Festival and was supported by the Tribeca Creators Market and Film Independent. Mary’s short films have been selected for multiple Vimeo Staff Picks and Webbies, and screened at countless festivals as well as on Adult Swim, Hulu, and Vulture.  A creative luminary of many talents, Dauterman’s other creative collaborations include co-inventing the viral beach accessory, The Tortilla Towel™, authoring and illustrating two children’s books for adults, and directing and writing various projects for Adult Swim. She is currently in development on her second feature, a comedy heist called Thirty Grand, with support from Film Independent.

Preston Lee, Sanctuary’s Founder said:

"Watching Mary make Booger was nothing short of inspiring. She is able to harness the most amazing creative energy while never losing sight of the story. We’re super excited to now work with her on ads and looking forward to making some funny work together."

 

Dauterman's experiences in the vibrant landscape of New York and Indie filmmaking have contributed to her expertise in casting talent, especially from the Brooklyn comedy scene. Dauterman’s contributions to film have earned her recognition as an ADC Young Gun and Shoot New Director, along with numerous Webby Awards, D&AD wins, One Show Pencils, and Cannes Lions.

Dauterman says of signing:

"The team at Sanctuary are all wonderful collaborators, and I'm thrilled to bridge my passion for independent film and impactful commercial content together. It feels great to nerd out about storytelling across mediums, and I can't wait to continue making fun and memorable work together."