About Us

Midwest Horror Network is devoted to the production, innovation, education, and community of the horror genre.

Zachary Smith

Zachary Smith

Director, VFX Artist, and Editor

Zachary Smith is a Chicago-based director, VFX artist, and editor. He is the co-creator of the horror anthology series “Living Nightmares.” With a profound love for horror films and all things bloody, he looks for new ways to push the boundaries of the horror genre. In addition to directing and editing, he also has a background in writing and acting.

Brandon Rackowski

Brandon Rackowski

Cinematographer

Brandon Rackowski is a Chicago-based cinematographer, who is always figuring out how to use classic filmmaking techniques in modern storytelling. In addition to his work with Midwest Horror Network, he has shot numerous advertisements around the midwest, the upcoming comedy feature, “Party Favors,” and has directed the short documentary, “City within a City: Building the Watergate.”

Mark Conway

Mark Conway

Executive Producer and Actor

Mark Conway has been a Chicago-based actor for the last 15 years with experience in Theatre, Indie films, and everything in between. The Community of Horror has been amazing to Mark, and being a part of this company is his way of giving back to it. With a sales & business background, acting provides some much-needed practicality to the genre of horror and the film industry as a whole. He has served as an on-set producer for all the productions of the organization. In addition, Mark lent his acting talents to the most recent episode of Living Nightmares, "A Stroll Through The Woods."

David Benavides

David Benavides

Executive Producer

David Benavides is a director/writer and has worked in the film industry for 10 years. His love for film started while directing a documentary about stereotypes in alternative schools. He has directed and written short films such as Unmasked Remedy. David has been hired as a cinematographer for many short films like Penchant and works as a grip/gaffer for Midwest Horror Network.

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