Carl Mickens, a Hartford, Connecticut native, ignited his passion for film in high school when his mother gifted him his first camera. Relocating to Los Angeles after graduation, he immersed himself in film studies at Columbia College Hollywood. Carl crafted and directed numerous short films, contributing as a production assistant on independent projects. His journey took him to The 64th Cannes Film Festival, where he collaborated with fellow filmmakers on a competition short film. Post- graduation, he joined ESPN's Digital Media department, significantly impacting the distribution of sports highlights to over 72 million daily viewers. Eventually returning to Los Angeles, Carl founded CM Films, channeling his dedication into writing and producing compelling films and diverse content.