Creative Artists Agency (CAA) recently announced its representation of Izabel Pakzad, the accomplished Iranian-Greek American filmmaker, writer, and actress. This development coincides with the upcoming release of Pakzad's debut feature film, "Find Your Friends," a gripping thriller set to premiere on Shudder on June 12th. The film, born from Pakzad's own challenging experiences, delves into intricate female relationships and offers a critical perspective on contemporary party culture, having already captivated audiences at various film festivals.
Filmmaker Izabel Pakzad Joins CAA Roster as "Find Your Friends" Premieres
In a significant career advancement on April 9, 2026, Izabel Pakzad, a multifaceted talent recognized as a filmmaker, writer, and actress, officially joined the prestigious ranks of Creative Artists Agency (CAA). This move arrives as her highly anticipated directorial debut, "Find Your Friends," prepares for its global release on the streaming platform Shudder on June 12th. The thriller, featuring a cast including Helena Howard, Bella Thorne, Chloe Cherry, Zion Moreno, Sophia Ali, and Pakzad herself, chronicles the harrowing journey of a group of friends navigating escalating dangers during a desert party, inspired by a real-life incident Pakzad encountered years prior. Her personal ordeal, involving a high-speed pursuit on a freeway after a "wild girls trip" to Joshua Tree, served as the emotional bedrock for the film's narrative. Pakzad shared with Variety's William Earl that the film explores the complexities of female friendships within the context of the pervasive "party, frat culture" that has shaped her generation. "Find Your Friends" has already made a notable impact on the international film circuit, premiering at last year's Fantasia Film Festival and subsequently screening at the Toronto International Film Festival, Fantastic Fest (for its U.S. premiere), Stiges in Catalonia, Spain, and Torino in Italy. Beyond her new representation with CAA, Pakzad continues to be managed by Black Bear and Paula Woods Consultants, affirming a robust support system for her burgeoning career.
This announcement highlights the industry's recognition of original storytelling driven by authentic personal experiences. Pakzad's ability to translate a terrifying real-life event into a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences underscores the power of film as a medium for both entertainment and social commentary. Her commitment to exploring the nuances of female relationships and societal pressures offers a fresh and vital perspective in contemporary cinema. The success of "Find Your Friends" on the festival circuit, culminating in its Shudder release, demonstrates the increasing demand for diverse voices and stories that challenge conventional narratives and prompt reflection on shared human experiences.
