ABOUT US
As a leading independent production and finance company committed to creating high-quality, original content for a variety of platforms, including live-action film, animated film, television, digital/mobile, games, theater and more. Our mission will always be to provide the very best entertainment inclusive of all generations, which inspires, engages, excites and always contributes positivity not only to our communities but to the world at large. Our content creators are motivated by a love of storytelling and a desire to push the limits of what is possible in the entertainment industry.
We take pride in our ability to bring ideas to life, from the initial concept to the final delivery. This process entails a range of activities, such as script development, casting, location scouting, filming and post-production. To realize our visions, we leverage the strengths of traditional production methods, as well as the benefits offered by emerging technologies, to bring our visions to fruition.
We are known for our Academy Award-winning visual effects and technology, in addition to our commitment to creating engaging and compelling content. We can use these tools to create immersive, realistic worlds that transport our audiences to new dimensions and experiences.
Overall, It's Just Us Productions is dedicated to bringing audiences around the world the next generation of motion pictures, television, and digital/mobile content.
NEWS
IN MEMORIAM: GARY MARTIN
CANNES WORLD FILM FESTIVAL
MEIHODO INTERNATIONAL YOUTH VISUAL MEDIA FESTIVAL
FUKUOKA
It is with deep sadness that It’s Just Us Productions announces the passing of Gary Martin, a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and a longstanding member of our advisory board. Gary Martin's illustrious 32-year tenure at Sony and Columbia Pictures was marked by his exemplary leadership and numerous contributions to the world of filmmaking. Serving as President of both Sony Pictures and Columbia TriStar Motion Pictures, he oversaw the production of over 600 films, including iconic franchises such as Spider-Man, Men in Black, and Ghostbusters, as well as celebrated modern classics like James Bond Casino Royale, The Social Network, and The Prince of Tides. A true visionary, Gary Martin played a pivotal role in the development of Sony Pictures Studios, opening the Barbra Streisand Scoring Stage and spearheading sustainability efforts that transformed the facility into the first zero-waste studio lot in 2011. In recognition of his remarkable career, Sony honored Gary by renaming the historic Stage 15, used for The Wizard of Oz, as "The Gary Martin Sound Stage.” Gary continued his impact in the industry by joining the Executive Board at It’s Just Us Productions and Rocket Science in 2016.
Gary's indelible mark on our companies, the entertainment industry and his philanthropic legacy will be remembered and cherished.
November 2, 2023
Cannes, France - The Cannes World Film Festival Annual Awards, once again cast its mesmerizing spotlight on cinematic treasures and must-see films from across the globe. The Cannes World Film Festival is a prestigious annual event that brings together cinematic marvels from across the globe. A melting pot of creative brilliance, the festival celebrates the art of storytelling through film, honoring visionaries and revolutionaries who redefine the boundaries of cinema.
The prestigious LUCIOLE D’OR, a symbol of unparalleled accomplishment in the realm of cinema, was reverently handed to two luminaries who have etched their names indelibly into the annals of film history. The LUCIOLE D’OR Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon the visionary Mr. Castor and incomparable Mr. Rygiel. Through their unparalleled dedication and artistic brilliance, they have altered the course of cinema, enriching it with layers of meaning and visual grandeur. Previous LUCIOLE D’OR winners: Clint Eastwood, Bruce Willis, Jeff Daniels, Jon Voight, Jennifer Lopez, Malcolm McDowell, Eric Roberts, H.H. The Dalai Lama, Sir Richard Branson, Jimmy Carter, Robert Kennedy Jr., Tippi Hedren, David LaChapelle, Anita Ekbert, Lance Hendriksen, Michael Madsen, Lambert Wilson, to name a few.
June 16, 2023
Fukuoka, Japan - The Meihodo International Youth Visual Media Festival one of the largest short film festivals in the world, celebrated its fifth annual event on April 28th. Amanbek Azhymat, a filmmaker from Kyrgyzstan, emerged as the winner of the coveted Grand Prize Award for his outstanding film "Warrior", earning $10,000 and a custom NFT trophy. The award ceremony, was attended by Michelle Yeoh, Academy Award-winning star of "Everything Everywhere All At Once," who extended her felicitations to Azhymat and all other participating finalists. The film jury chaired by Gabriella Cristiani, an Academy Award-winning editor of "The Last Emperor," included other renowned members such as Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun, Emmy-winning television producer Yu-Sai, and Hollywood producer Mr. Castor, who also served as the Deputy Chair. The festival honored Mr. Castor by presenting him with the first Lifetime Achievement Award ever awarded by the festival, in recognition of his contributions to the film industry. The festival also honored acclaimed martial arts director Andy Cheng with a Career Achievement Award for his exceptional work. The 2018-established Meihodo International Youth Visual Media Festival offers a forum for the presentation and selection of works that can be appreciated and honored by a global audience.
April 28, 2023
MEIHODO INTERNATIONAL YOUTH VISUAL MEDIA FESTIVAL FUKUOKA
AROUND FILMS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
INTERNATIONAL TEEN SHORT
FILM FESTIVAL BEIJING
Fukuoka Japan - Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel have been honored with invitations to join the Film Jury as well as to give Master Classes at the 5th Meihodo International Youth Visual Media Festival. It is with great pleasure that Meihodo Inc., a Japanese corporation dedicated to preserving traditional humanistic culture from around the world. The Festival is a unique event that provides a platform for cultural conversations between international film producers, as well as supporting young and talented creators. The Festival aims to explore the intersections of the immersive worlds of metaverse technologies and blockchain-based non-fungible tokens (NFTs) with film and video, both in terms of the content and the way it is shared, experienced, and monetized. Industry professionals, creators, and innovators will come together to share their knowledge and collaborate on projects that push the boundaries of storytelling and digital art creation. The Festival promises an exciting series of screenings, conversations, workshops, and more.
March 15, 2023
Paris, France - Barcelona, Spain - Amsterdam, Netherlands - Berlin, Germany - The prestigious ARFF International - Around Films International Film Festival
recognized the outstanding contributions of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to the world of cinema by conferring upon them the ARFF International Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, both these distinguished gentlemen have been appointment to the ARFF Visionaries Board, which comprises industry leaders and luminaries who provide strategic guidance and mentorship to the organization
Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel's exceptional talent, creativity, and commitment to the art of filmmaking have earned them a well-deserved place on the ARFF Visionaries Board. Their deep understanding of the technical aspects of film production, combined with their visionary approach to storytelling, makes them an invaluable asset to the organization. Currently, both Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel are serving as Film Juries on the ARFF International Film Festivals in Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin. The ARFF International - Around Films International Film Festival is committed to promoting and celebrating cinematic excellence from around the world.
February 21, 2023
Beijing, China - The International Teen Short Film Festival (ITSFF) recently conferred prestigious
Honorary Academy Awards upon Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the world of cinema. The Honorary Academy Awards are reserved for those who have made significant contributions to the film industry. It is a recognition of the recipients' contributions to the advancement of cinema and their commitment to excellence. Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel both have left their mark on the film industry. The Angel Awards are another honor bestowed by the ITSFF, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field of cinema. This year, Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel were also awarded the coveted Angel Awards for their exceptional work in the industry. The Angel Awards celebrate individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, creativity, and excellence in the field of filmmaking. The ITSF is committed to supporting filmmakers, fostering innovation, and showcasing groundbreaking cinematic achievements. By honoring individuals like Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel, the festival reinforces its commitment to promoting excellence in cinema and nurturing young talent.
November 18, 2022
The Mediterranean Film Festival supports the works of independent filmmakers and fosters creativity and risk-taking in the film industry. The festival seeks to transcend the banal and frequently uninspired patterns of popular cinema and embrace a more artistic approach that arouses strong emotions and defies expectations.
The Mediterranean Film Festival Cannes is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to its jury as part of this endeavor. The selection and recognition of the films that truly stand out from the competition will be greatly influenced by these renowned industry experts.
September 21, 2022
INTERNATIONAL TEEN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL BEIJING
CHINA INTERNATIONAL CARTOON AND ANIMATION FESTIVAL
Beijing, China - Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel have been appointed film jury. ITSFF is an international film festival for teenagers. This non-profit event, which aims to promote socialist culture, that provides a platform to inspire young people to preserve and transmit their exceptional traditional Chinese culture. ITSFF offers young film makers an opportunity to increase awareness of other cultures from different segments of society, and to reinforce the feeling of understanding of individuals from different principles and social structures supporting young film-makers. The movies from all around the world will be another means to express cultural variety and diversity. ITSFF has no restrictions on the theme of film, but the content of film must be suitable for the audience under the age of 18. Regardless the type of film, you can register for drama, documentary, experimental and animation short films.
October 13, 2022
MEDITERRANEAN FILM FESTIVAL
CANNES - MILAN - ATHENS
France - Italy - Greece - The Mediterranean Film Festival supports the works of independent filmmakers and fosters creativity and risk-taking in the film industry. The festival seeks to transcend the banal and frequently uninspired patterns of popular cinema and embrace a more artistic approach that arouses strong emotions and defies expectations. The Mediterranean Film Festival Cannes is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to its jury as part of this endeavor. The selection and recognition of the films that truly stand out from the competition will be greatly influenced by these renowned industry experts.
September 21, 2022
JAIPUR INTERNATIONAL FILM
Jaipur, India - The Jaipur International Film Festival, an annual event that seeks to foster the careers of aspiring filmmakers and facilitate the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and culture between India and other countries, has invited Castor and Rygiel to serve on its distinguished film jury. The festival aims to foster friendship and collaboration among people from all corners of the world through the medium of film and documentary in addition to its focus on new talent and cross-cultural exchange. Castor and Rygiel will have the important task of reviewing and choosing the films that are shown at the occasion as members of the film jury, aiding in maintaining it as a notable and significant celebration of the craft of storytelling.
August 30, 2022
INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
THE HAGUE
The Hague, Netherlands - Today the International Film Festival of the Hague, held annually in the city known for its principles of peace and justice, has announced the appointment of esteemed industry professionals Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to its esteemed film jury. The festival's highly anticipated fifth season, scheduled for November 2023, will center on the theme "People & Perspectives," providing a platform for filmmakers from various locations to exhibit the multifaceted challenges and social issues depicted in their works. The event allows both international audiences and filmmakers to view and appreciate the various perspectives represented in the films on display.
May 27, 2022
CINEDARBAAR
DELHI, INDIA
Delhi, India - Mr. Rygiel and Mr. Castor have accepted portions on the prestigious Board of Directors of Cinedarbaar, a cutting edge organization that serves as a holistic ecosystem for education in the fields of cinema, media, and entertainment. Cinedarbaar has been painstakingly designed and built to give students access to a diverse range of course offerings in live, video, and streaming formats. Cinedarbaar will also provide mentor consultations, masterclasses, labs, seminars, and other learning opportunities to help students succeed in school. Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vast and exciting world of cinema, media, and entertainment when classes begin in December, while being taught by some of the most reputable professionals in the field.
July 15, 2020
SHANGHAI
INTERNATIONAL
FILM FESTIVAL (SIFF)
Shanghai, China - It is a prime opportunity for filmmakers to network and engage with their peers and the broader film community, and for audiences to discover the latest and most exciting developments in the world of cinema. The presence of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel at the festival is sure to be a highlight, as they introduce their highly anticipated film "The Long Boat" to an international audience. For fans to learn about the newest and most interesting innovations in the film industry as well as for filmmakers to network and interact with their peers and the larger film community. As they premiere their eagerly awaited movie "The Long Boat" to a global audience, Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel's attendance at the festival is certain to be a highlight.
May 2, 2019
FILM CARNIVAL 10th
ANNIVERSARY
HANGZHOU, CHINA
Hangzhou, China - To commemorate their tenth anniversary, FILM CARNIVAL organized a media event and celebratory soirée at the Che'fle Canal Hotel in Hangzhou, China on November 18th. The event featured keynote addresses by Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel, both of whom were joined by esteemed Academy Award winners Mr. Van der Rynes and Ms. Cristiani. During the celebration, FILM CARNIVAL unveiled the release of their inaugural feature film, NEZHA, as well as a mobile video game inspired by the film. The film is being co-produced by Mr. Castor, Mr. Rygiel under their IT'S JUST US PRODUCTONS banner and FILM CARNIVAL. IT'S JUST US PRODUCTIONS. It boasts an impressive cast, including celebrated actors Zhang Fungi, Michelle Yeoh, and Lei Wu.
November 18, 2016
Hangzhou, China - It is an honor for Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to be be chosen to serve on the film jury of the China International Cartoon & Animation Festival (CICAF). CICAF, which is hosted by the National Radio and Television Administration, China Media Group, and People's Government of Zhejiang Province, is China's premier international animation festival and serves as a key cultural trading platform supported by the Chinese Culture Going-Global Project.
Industrialization, branding, and marketization, CICAF has become the largest, most popular, and most influential animation professional event in China.
October 10, 2022
VOCE SPETTACOLO FILM FESTIVAL
Matera, Italy - Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel have been appointed to the esteemed panel of judges for the inaugural VOCE SPETTACOLO FILM FESTIVAL, a global cinematic celebration set to be held in the picturesque city of Matera, Italy. The festival, which aims to honor the diverse and innovative works of filmmakers from around the world, will be presided over by a group of seasoned industry professionals. As members of the jury, their mandate will be to identify and nurture the growth of promising up-and-coming talent within the film industry.
August 30, 2022
MUMBAI INDIE FILM FESTIVAL
Mumbai, India - It is an honor for the Mumbai Independent Film Festival to invite Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to join its prestigious panel of judges. The festival, which is regarded as one of India's most prestigious cinematic occasions, aims to support and nurture upcoming independent and low-budget filmmakers by presenting a variety of short films, features, web projects, documentaries, and other works. The festival offers sales and distribution support in addition to possibilities for independent and documentary filmmakers to get their work in front of audiences. We are sure that Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel's knowledge and experience will significantly improve the festival's efforts to champion and celebrate independent film.
August 29, 2022
TENCENT GAMES
PUBG MOBILE
Tencent Games has formed a partnership with It's Just Us Productions, a Los Angeles-based production company owned and operated by Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel. The collaboration aims to identify and pursue potential opportunities for PUBG promotion and integration across both in-game and offline platforms. Furthermore, Tencent Games and It's Just Us Productions will seek out and negotiate agreements with well-known intellectual property holders in a variety of industries, including film, television, music, and luxury brands.
March 16, 2021
HAINAN ISLAND INTERNATIONAL
FILM FESTIVAL (HIIFF)
Sanya, China - The Hainan Island International Film Festival, an annual event that showcases the talent and creativity of filmmakers from around the world, will take place from December 1st to December 8th this year. Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel will be giving keynote speeches at the festival, bringing their wealth of knowledge and experience. The introduction of the Golden Coconut Awards film competition, which will recognize and honor the best in cinematic achievement, is one of the festival's most anticipated aspects. Ten awards will be given out, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Jury, Best Actor and Actress, Best Screenwriter, Best Technical Achievement, Best Documentary, and Best Children's Film. The awards ceremony will take place on Phoenix Island on the evening of December 7th, offering a spectacular conclusion to the week-long celebration of film. The Hainan Island International Film Festival is a true celebration of the art of film, and we look forward to seeing the exciting and innovative works that will be showcased this year.
November 1, 2019
HAINAN ISLAND
INTERNATIONAL
FILM FESTIVAL
Sanya, China - The Inaugural Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIFF) is set to take place in the province of Sanya, Hainan, China from December 9th to 16th in partnership with the Film Bureau of Hainan. This highly anticipated event will be hosted by the People's Government of Hainan and will feature keynote speeches from Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel. In addition, the festival will be graced by the presence of Festival Ambassador Jackie Chan and special guest Johnny Depp, who will give a Masters Class and appear at the closing ceremonies. HIFF was inspired by President XI Jinping's "Opening Up" speech, which was given at the 30th anniversary celebration of the founding of Hainan Province in April. This exciting event is sure to bring together some of the biggest names in the film industry and showcase the best of international cinema.
October 26, 2018
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC & TRADE FAIR LANGFANG, CHINA
CITIC GUOAN, a leading organization in its industry, has extended an invitation to IT'S JUST US PRODUCTONS, ROCKET SCIENCE 3D/IZON to participate in this year's China International Economic & Trade Fair (5:18). The fair, which will focus on the theme of "Smart Cities," has become one of the most influential and comprehensive economic and trade events in the entire north of China. It is co-sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China and the People's Government of Hebei Province, and is highly regarded for its ability to bring together a diverse range of participants from various sectors and regions. This year's event is sure to be a valuable opportunity for IT'S JUST US PRODUCTIONS, ROCKET SCIENCE 3D/IZON to showcase their innovative technologies and ideas, as well as to connect with other industry leaders and potential partners.
April 11, 2016
CANNES WORLD FILM FESTIVAL
Cannes, France - The selection of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to the film jury for the famous Cannes World Film Festival is something we can announce with great satisfaction. Both Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel are well-established members of the film industry who bring a wealth of expertise to this prestigious position. They will surely contribute significantly to the festival's selection of films because of their knowledge and discernment. The festival is recognized as one of the most prestigious gatherings in the world of cinema.
October 2, 2022
CELEBRITY FILM AWARDS
It has been decided to add Mr. Rygiel and Mr. Castor to the Celebrity Film Awards jury. The CFA is a prestigious occasion that honors the greatest accomplishments in film from all over the world. We consider it a pleasure to be able to welcome these two accomplished people to the jury and are confident that their knowledge and experience will be crucial in assisting us in honoring the absolute best in cinematic craftsmanship. Every year, the city of Matera, Italy, which is recognized for its rich cultural legacy and variety of artistic manifestations, hosts the Celebrity Film Awards.
August 30, 2022
ARAVALI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
The Aravali International Film Festival's organizers are excited to announce the selection of Mr. Rygiel and Mr. Castor as jurors for the upcoming event. We are sure they will add a significant perspective to the selection process and aid in creating a roster of excellent films for the festival given their in-depth expertise and background in the film business. We heartily congratulate Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel on their appointment and eagerly anticipate revealing the films that have been selected for this year's festival. The Aravali International Film Festival appreciates your support, and we're excited to share the whole schedule with you all.
June 8, 2022
BLUE PLANET SCI-FI
FILM FESTIVAL (BPSFF)
The Blue Planet Sci-Fi Film Festival, which is China's first-ever sci-fi film festival and the sole large-scale sci-fi theme event platform in the nation, is set to occur in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province from December 1st to 6th. This festival is a unique opportunity for science fiction fans and filmmakers to come together and celebrate the genre, as well as for industry professionals to network and share their work. As such, the organizers have selected a prestigious panel of judges, including Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel, to oversee the selection of films and determine the winners of various awards. We are excited to see what this year's festival has in store and encourage all fans of sci-fi to consider attending.
November 5, 2020
GOLDEN SCREEN AWARDS
Beverly Hills, California - The Fourth Annual Golden Screen Awards have chosen to honor Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel with the esteemed privilege of presenting the award for "Best Picture" at the esteemed ceremony, which is set to take place on November 5th in the luxurious setting of Beverly Hills, California. The Golden Screen Awards, a highly regarded event in the film and television industry, are organized by the U.S. China Film & TV Expo in partnership with the esteemed Motion Picture Association, China Film Co-Production, and The Hollywood Reporter. This esteemed collaboration brings together some of the most influential and esteemed organizations in the film and television industry, making the Golden Screen Awards a highly coveted and prestigious honor.
October 3, 2019
CHINA INTERNATIONAL
CARTOON & ANIMATION
FESTIVAL
Hangzhou, China - The 13th China International Animation Festival (CICAF) has recently announced the appointment of Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel to the jury for the prestigious 2017 "Golden Monkey King" Award. This highly anticipated event is set to take place from April 28th to May 3rd at the White Horse Lake Animation Plaza in Hangzhou. As the only state-level professional animation festival in the country, CICAF is expected to attract a large number of visitors, with organizers anticipating a turnout of over 1.3 million people. In addition to their roles on the film jury, Mr. Castor and Mr. Rygiel will also be featured speakers at the "C.A.K.E. TALK" (Creative Animation Knowledge Exchange) during the festival. This is a unique opportunity for these industry professionals to share their expertise and insights with animation enthusiasts from all over the world.
March 27 2017
CHINA -U.S. FILM SUMMIT
GRAND EPOCH CITY, CHINA
CITIC GUOAN, DICK COOK STUDIOS, The China Media Culture Promotion Association and the Beijing FIlm Academy have graciously invited IT'S JUST US PRODUCTIONS / ROCKET SCIENCE 3D/IZON to participate in their Inaugural Summit, an event aimed at bringing together esteemed industry leaders from both China and the United States, including top executives, award-winning filmmakers, highly skilled writers, and technology pioneers. The purpose of the summit is to address current trends in the entertainment industry and to explore strategies for promoting collaboration and success between the Chinese and American entertainment sectors. The conference will take place on March 25th at Grand Epoch City, providing a valuable opportunity for attendees to engage with their peers and share insights on the latest developments in the field.
March 17, 2016
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