AREK ZASOWSKI
Actor • Director • Storyteller
Arek Zasowski is a Polish-born, UK-based international film actor, director, producer, and visual effects artist whose dynamic on-screen presence and adventurous storytelling have won audiences and awards across the globe. A four-time Telly Award winner, he is also the creator and host of the late-night talk show Actors by Actors Show, celebrated for its intimate, inspiring conversations with artists from around the world.
His film credits span genres — from the mysterious romantic comedy Call Me, to the heartfelt romantic dramas Let Go: The Prelude and Let Go: Letting Go, to sci-fi adventures like Detective Jack Berdett and Incoming Impact, and the award-winning cross-continental spy short Operation Jaguar. His work has been screened at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood, aired on Canadian cable TV, and streamed worldwide on Roku’s ShortsDaily TV channel.
Arek Zasowski introduces his mysterious romantic comedy Call Me at the Golden State Film Festival, held at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. This 2020 screening was part of the official festival lineup and celebrated Arek’s signature blend of charm, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling.
Following the screening, Call Me was awarded the Best International Romantic Comedy Short, a prestigious honor recognizing Arek’s unique voice as a filmmaker.
Photo by Steve Escarcega.
PR.com - Call Me Wins Best International Romantic Comedy Short in Hollywood
Adventure. Charisma. Hollywood Energy.
Arek Zasowski wins Best International Romantic Comedy Short for his film Call Me at the Golden State Film Festival held at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, March 2020. Pictured with festival director Jon Grusha, actress Aemy NiaFeliz, and programmer Peter Greene.
Photo by Steve Escarcega.
Arek’s creative journey began in London, where he studied under acting coach, actress and LAMDA examiner Valerie Dent, working on his acting craft, performing scenes and monologues before moving into screen acting and filmmaking. His earliest student shorts were filmed at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it was there, watching his first performance projected on the big screen, that he discovered his passion for cinema.
Not content to wait for opportunities, Arek began creating his own work, producing films that not only showcased his talent but also provided a platform for fellow performers. He rapidly expanded his skillset to include writing, directing, editing, 3D design, and visual effects, blending artistic vision with cutting-edge technology. His films have since earned over 160 international awards, nominations, and official selections – including Best Actor, Best Director, Best TV Pilot, Audience Awards, and multiple Telly Awards – celebrating his excellence across film, television, and visual storytelling, with global recognition spanning Los Angeles and Las Vegas to Europe, Africa, and Asia.
In 2025, Arek was awarded a Gold Telly Award in the Film & Shorts – 3D Animation category for his fantasy short film Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge, which he wrote, directed, and created entirely inside Unreal Engine. The 5-minute magical journey brought to life an enchanting world crafted from scratch using modern virtual production tools, showcasing Arek’s skills not only as an actor and director, but as a cutting-edge digital artist. The film featured captivating voice performances from Lizet Benrey, Thomas Peterson, and Wendy Fout, and marked a turning point in Arek's exploration of fantasy storytelling and immersive visual effects.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Arek launched the Actors by Actors Show, a late-night talk format that turned adversity into opportunity. Designed as a virtual soundstage, the show gave a voice to actors and artists during lockdown, offering inspiration and connection when the industry needed it most.
Actors by Actors Show went on to win three Bronze Telly Awards, including Television – Entertainment (2023 & 2024) and Television – Interview & Talk Show (2024). Its spooky and cosmic Episode 5 became a fan favorite, blending Unreal Engine visuals with a talk show format. In that episode, Arek interviewed Los Angeles–based acting coach and former Beverly Hills agent Sandra K. Horner in a stylized backlot-inspired virtual set that fused sci-fi, adventure, supernatural, and late-night flair. The episode was praised for pushing creative boundaries and earned double honors at the record-breaking 45th Annual Telly Awards.
As host, Arek blends charisma with emotional depth, creating a platform where artists feel seen. From Grammy-nominated artists and award-winning directors to rising talent and seasoned actors, the show captures the creative soul of the industry and reflects Arek’s own values of connection, resilience, and authenticity.
Beyond the screen, Arek is driven by two great passions: acting and travel. His international career reflects both, with work created in the UK, USA, Mexico, Cyprus, Italy, Spain, Poland, and beyond. His goal is simple: to bring cinematic stories to life that resonate emotionally, entertain globally, and inspire audiences everywhere.
Arek Zasowski doesn’t just perform in films — he creates them, lives them, and makes them unforgettable.
Operation Jaguar is a cheeky spy-adventure short film starring Arek Zasowski, Lizet Benrey, and Wendy Fout.
This tropical micro-thriller begins with an ordinary beach stroll and ends in a blast of mystery, Mayan mythology, and mischief — all triggered by a curious plastic bag and a strange ancient whistle.
Told across three continents, the film offers a flirty nod to classic spy cinema with a fun, surreal twist.
Arek Zasowski holding the Bronze Telly Award statuette after winning at the 44th Annual Telly Awards in the Television – Entertainment category.
Awarded in May 2023 in New York City for Actors By Actors Show – Episode #004, featuring Suzanne von Schaack.
MY DEBUT ON THE BIG SCREEN
Arek’s first taste of film magic came at Universal Studios Hollywood, where he starred in student shorts including April Fools Day and You Can Heal Your Life. Shot on the legendary backlot where countless classics were made, the experience of seeing himself projected on the big screen was transformative. Those early films introduced him to the mechanics of cinema and the collaborative energy of a set, while confirming that his place was in front of the camera.
For Arek, stepping onto a hot set at Universal wasn’t just an exercise in training, it was a rite of passage. Surrounded by film history and guided by the New York Film Academy’s hands-on workshops, he gained a deeper understanding of screen acting — learning to adapt quickly, connect truthfully, and perform under the same lights that had illuminated Hollywood legends. These formative experiences became his foundation, proving that passion, discipline, and perseverance are the keys to any actor’s climb.
More than just student films, these moments marked the beginning of a cinematic journey that would carry Arek from classroom stages to festival screens worldwide, setting him on the path to become an internationally recognized, award-winning actor and filmmaker.
“To climb a mountain, you climb a hill first”
– Arek Zasowski
Arek Zasowski with director Bruce MacWilliams at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, following the final screening of the Acting for Film workshop. October 2018.
Photo by Viola Zasowska.
Arek Zasowski at the screening ceremony of the Acting for Film workshop at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, October 2018. Pictured with fellow actors and acting instructors Martin Thompson and Bruce MacWilliams.
Photo by Viola Zasowska.
Arek Zasowski pictured with the cast of Life Is Beautiful during filming at Universal Studios Hollywood. This heartfelt short film was part of a New York Film Academy acting workshop held in October 2018, capturing raw performances and ensemble storytelling.
A charming day of filmmaking on the legendary backlot where dreams are made.
Arek Zasowski on the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood during a New York Film Academy workshop shoot. The “Hot Set” sign marks the filming zone where Arek and fellow actors brought their scenes to life as part of their on-camera training. Shot in beautiful morning light, this moment captures Arek in between takes — focused, passionate, and grounded in his craft.
TODAY & TOMORROW
Today, Arek Zasowski stands as a four-time Telly Award–winning actor, director, and storyteller with an expanding body of work that spans drama, romance, comedy, sci-fi, and adventure. His aspirations are firmly set on playing leading roles in big-screen adventures, spy thrillers, romantic comedies, and epic sci-fi films — roles that align with his natural charisma and his love for fast cars, exotic locations, and larger-than-life characters. With every project, Arek blends European sophistication with Hollywood blockbuster energy, building a cinematic universe of his own while preparing to step into the kind of iconic roles that inspire audiences worldwide.
Written by Arek Zasowski
Last updated: September 22, 2025
FESTIVALS & AWARDS
Arek’s films and talk shows have been screened across the globe — from the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood to festivals in Las Vegas, London, and beyond. His work has aired on Canadian cable TV, streamed worldwide on Roku’s ShortsDaily channel, and collected over 160 international accolades, including Best Actor, Best Director, Audience Awards, and multiple Telly Awards.
In 2024, Arek was honoured with the Oscar Season International Grand Jury Prize at the Los Angeles Motion Picture Festival for his romantic comedy Call Me, marking a standout moment in his festival journey.
Whether standing on stage with a trophy in hand or watching audiences react to his films in theaters, each recognition has been a reminder of the impact his stories can make. These achievements cement his reputation as a rising international star and multi-talented filmmaker.
Arek Zasowski wins Best Inspirational Short for his romantic drama Let Go: The Prelude at the Silver State Film Festival in Las Vegas. The red carpet awards ceremony took place at the Cinemark Century Orleans 18 & XD in September 2019.
Pictured with Viola Zasowska, festival director Jon G. Grusha, and programmer Peter Greene.
Official certificate from the Vegas Movie Awards honoring Let Go: Letting Go, written and directed by Arek Zasowski. The film received the Best Drama – Award of Merit for excellence in filmmaking, presented in May 2020.
Arek Zasowski receives the Platinum Festival Award – International Grand Jury Prize at the Los Angeles Motion Picture Festival 2025 for Operation Jaguar. The award recognizes excellence and service to the international film industry from the spiritual home of cinema and television.
2021
ACTORS BY ACTORS SHOW
During the Covid-19 lockdown, when productions halted worldwide, Arek created a new platform for storytelling: Actors by Actors Show. Designed as a late-night talk show that connected artists remotely, the series gave actors, filmmakers, and creatives a space to share their journeys when the industry needed it most. Blending heartfelt interviews with immersive visuals, the show quickly gained critical acclaim.
To date, Actors by Actors Show has won three Bronze Telly Awards, including Television – Entertainment 2023 & 2024) and Television – Interview & Talk Show (2024) — with its spine-tingling, VFX-driven Episode 5 earning double honors in the record-breaking 45th Annual Telly Awards. In that episode, Arek masterfully fused talk show format with cinematic storytelling, teleporting onto the virtual stage in a haunted-lab-inspired set filled with ghosts, sci-fi visuals, portals, and Unreal Engine magic — all created inside his own virtual studio.
As host, Arek radiates charisma and empathy, guiding intimate conversations with Grammy-nominated artists, bestselling authors, international filmmakers, and acting legends like Sandra K. Horner, former Beverly Hills agent and Los Angeles–based coach. More than a show, Actors by Actors is an artistic experiment — part film, part broadcast, all heart.
Arek Zasowski hosting an episode of the multi-award-winning Actors by Actors Show. With his signature charisma and sharp style, Arek brings insight, humor, and heart to interviews with rising and established talents from around the globe. A true storyteller both in front of and behind the camera.
2020
Watch Actors By Actors Show – Episode #005
In this award-winning episode, Arek Zasowski sits down with renowned Hollywood acting coach and former Beverly Hills agent Sandra K. Horner for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes conversation about acting, resilience, and navigating the film industry.
From casting insights to personal breakthroughs, this candid talk pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive as a working actor in today’s competitive market.
Filmed on set with cinematic flair and heartfelt energy, Episode 005 has been recognized with two Bronze Telly Awards for its excellence in entertainment and interview format.
2023
Arek’s passion for visual storytelling extends beyond live-action into fully immersive 3D worlds. His fantasy short film Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge earned him the Gold Telly Award for Best 3D Animation at the 46th Annual Telly Awards, honoring innovation and craftsmanship in 3D animation and celebrating both his directorial vision and advanced Unreal Engine artistry.
2025
EXPANDING INTO FILMMAKING & VFX
With films like Detective Jack Berdett and Incoming Impact, Arek pushed himself into new territory as both filmmaker and visual effects artist. In Detective Jack Berdett, he played a half-human, half-cyborg detective caught in a cyber-attack mystery, fusing sci-fi comedy with VFX-driven storytelling. Incoming Impact further showcased his technical artistry, as he crafted the film’s visual effects himself, blending science fiction with humor and humanity.
In 2025, Arek achieved a career milestone by winning his first Gold Telly Award in the Film & Shorts – 3D Animation category for Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge, a fantasy short film fully created in Unreal Engine. Written, directed, and designed by Arek, the 5-minute mystical journey brought to life an enchanting world, powered by modern digital artistry and elevated by soulful performances from Lizet Benrey, Thomas Peterson, and Wendy Fout. This award solidified Arek’s place not only as a visionary actor-director but also as a master of cinematic world building and emotion through cutting-edge technology.
Watch the full award-winning fantasy short Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge, written, directed and created by Arek Zasowski in Unreal Engine.
Arek Zasowski proudly holding his Gold Telly Award for his fantasy short film Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge. Styled in an adventurous look, Arek embodies his Hollywood blockbuster spirit as both actor and filmmaker, blending charisma, creativity, and award-winning artistry.
Poster artwork for Incoming Impact, a sci-fi short film written, directed, and starring Arek Zasowski. This VFX-driven production was officially selected for the Marina del Rey Film Festival and screened on the Shorts Daily channel via Roku TV in 2020. The poster highlights the film’s futuristic tone, visual effects, and Zasowski’s creative control both in front of and behind the camera.
Cinematic still from Detective Jack Berdett, a sci-fi comedy short written, directed, and produced by Arek Zasowski. Set in New York, the story follows a detective investigating a cyber-attack on a classified lab. The film features bold performances, sleek visual effects, and festival recognition for its innovative VFX work. Pictured: Arek Zasowski and co-star Lizet Benrey.
Still from Detective Jack Berdett, featuring Arek Zasowski as the titular detective caught in a portal mishap. In this VFX-heavy sci-fi comedy short, Berdett is unexpectedly teleported into Earth’s orbit during his investigation of a cyber-attack, leading to a surreal and comedic twist. The film is known for its bold visual storytelling and was screened at several festivals.
A still from Guardians of the Secrets of the Luminara Challenge, this intimate jungle moment captures the cinematic realism of Arek Zasowski’s 3D artistry. Created entirely in Unreal Engine, the shot features a detailed iguana resting on stone, subtly mesmerized by a glowing blue butterfly — a symbol of mystery and magic that defines the film’s tone. It reflects the director’s masterful blend of emotional nuance and cutting-edge technology.
2020
CREATING MY OWN WORK
Determined not to wait for opportunities but to create them, Arek took a bold leap into independent filmmaking. His heartfelt short Let Go: The Prelude marked his debut as a director, followed by Let Go: Letting Go, expanding the story of grief, love, and resilience. Call Me, a mysterious romantic comedy shot across three continents, and Chinese Angel, a moving story of despair and redemption, solidified his reputation as a filmmaker unafraid to blend genres and explore deep emotions. These works not only won awards worldwide but also showcased Arek’s ability to craft cinematic stories while performing in them with leading-man energy.
Award-winning romantic short film Let Go: Letting Go explores love, loss, and healing through the eyes of Henk, played by Arek Zasowski. Set against the stunning coastlines of Cyprus, this heartfelt drama has garnered international acclaim, with multiple festival wins and nominations. Directed and performed by Zasowski, the film blends emotional storytelling with captivating performances.
That’s a wrap! Behind-the-scenes from Let Go: Letting Go, capturing a heartfelt celebration with director Arek Zasowski and cast members Viola Zasowska, Paul A. Taylor, and Olga Malchevska. A sentimental moment marking the end of a powerful filming day, filled with laughter, creativity, and connection.
2017
Arek Zasowski with the director Kevin Luther Apaa and an actress Julia Johnsson filming short romantic comedy April Fools Day at the Universal Studios Hollywood, August, 2016. Photo: Sha Peng
2016
EARLY INSPIRATION
Born in Poland and later based in the UK, Arek Zasowski found his first spark for acting as a child, fascinated by the larger-than-life heroes he saw on screen. That fascination grew into a calling when he began training in London under the guidance of Valerie Dent, a respected acting teacher and LAMDA examiner with whom he studied for over a decade. Her mentorship shaped his craft, teaching him to approach every role with depth, truth, and charisma. It was in these formative years that Arek laid the foundation for his career as a versatile actor with a natural screen presence and an adventurous spirit.
Arek Zasowski in workshop with renowned acting coach Valerie Dent, London 2017.
This behind-the-scenes moment captures Arek working with his very first acting mentor, Valerie Dent, the woman who first opened the door to his acting journey. Their dynamic energy and creative exchange helped lay the foundation for Arek’s future as an award-winning actor, director, and storyteller. A pivotal chapter in his transformation from curious beginner to international screen performer.
Arek Zasowski performing a scene with a fellow actress during an acting workshop with Valerie Dent in London, December 2017. This moment captures his dedication to training and developing his craft through dynamic collaboration.
2016
2016
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