About Wind up Merchant Films
Founder
Michael Manese is a versatile filmmaker who serves as the writer, director, editor, and producer for all Wind Up Merchant projects, formerly known as Angry Doug Films. Born in the Philippines and raised in Passaic, New Jersey, Michael honed his passion for filmmaking at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. He now resides in New York City, where he continues to create and inspire through his craft.
Filipinos in the Mainstream America
"My goal is to make films that tell stories from the unique perspective of Filipino Americans—those who grew up in the U.S., have integrated into American society, yet retain their ethnic and cultural 'flavor.' I want to bring the Filipino American experience into the mainstream, sharing universal stories through the lens of being both Filipino and Asian American." - MM