Susan Suza Thomas Embraces Innovation and Advocacy in Filmmaking
Susan “Suza” Thomas, an acclaimed filmmaker, writer, director, and producer, was born and raised in the northwest of England. Growing up as the only Black child in her village, Suza faced significant challenges that shaped her passion for representation and storytelling. Today, she stands as an international award-winning creative force, a recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from Barack Obama for her groundbreaking work in the film industry.
Trained at the BBC and ITV in the United Kingdom, Suza has built an impressive career as one of the top female action directors in the world. Her mastery of restricted and unrestricted weapons, combined with her deep knowledge of martial arts, has earned her respect in an industry often dominated by men. Her most recent feature film, Honorable Sins, has garnered over 20 awards and nominations, solidifying her reputation for delivering compelling, action-packed stories.
Suza is the founder of Infraction Media, a company dedicated to producing high-quality action and martial arts films. Infraction Media not only creates thrilling cinematic experiences but also trains aspiring actors in professional martial arts, ensuring they bring authenticity to their roles. The studio is home to some of the top Taekwondo practitioners, martial artists, and fight choreographers in the industry.
Her commitment to innovation extends to Filmdhit, another venture she founded. Filmdhit brings together martial artists passionate about non-traditional storytelling and breaking societal stereotypes. “We gain our inspiration from the world we experience around us,” Suza shares. “Breaking through the cliched roles in society, we use our creativity to make things that don’t yet quite exist.”
Suza’s advocacy for women and underrepresented groups is central to her career. As a mentor with ScreenSkills and a member of organizations like BECTU, BFI, Pact, and BAFTA Connect, she dedicates her time to empowering others. Reflecting on her journey, Suza remarks, “Growing up as the only Black kid in my environment, I was in a niche area where there weren’t any women, let alone Black women. It’s really important to me to help others avoid the struggles I faced.”
When asked about the challenges she’s faced, Suza candidly states, “The industry is not always about your talent or what you’ve done—it’s about networking and finding the right people who’ll give you a chance.”
For Suza, her legacy is clear. “I love helping people, and there have been those who’ve said I’ve changed their lives. I’d love to say I left the world better than it was when I landed in it.”
Through her films, mentorship, and advocacy, Suza continues to inspire and uplift, leaving a powerful mark on the world of cinema and beyond.
#Filmmaking, #GlobalVisionary, #Innovation
