Telling Stories that Matter.
We craft authentic, documentary-style films and content that bring real people and stories to the forefront — connecting brands with their audiences in meaningful, memorable ways.
We bring your stories to life across multiple mediums—from impactful documentaries to corporate and commercial films.
Director of Photography
Producer, Mike Flanagan founded Cheer Films, Inc. after nearly a decade as a freelance photographer and commercial video producer. With roots as a jazz musician and Broadway orchestra substitute, he brings a natural sense of rhythm and timing to his storytelling—whether in the sweep of a camera move, the precision of a lighting plot, or the cadence of a narrative arc.
At Cheer Films, Michael thrives at the intersection of preparation and improvisation. He approaches each project with the technical discipline to get it right and the creative flexibility to make it unforgettable. From framing an intimate character moment to orchestrating large-scale productions, his work balances professional polish with genuine, human expression.
A global traveler with experience across industries and cultures, Michael values collaboration as much as craft. Whether meeting in person or working remotely, he partners closely with clients to create films that are both strategically impactful and emotionally resonant.
On set, he’s known for keeping the mood light and the energy high—ensuring “always good times” while capturing images that surprise, delight, and inspire. His journey from improvisational musician to visual storyteller has shaped a signature style: visually striking, emotionally engaging, and alive with rhythm. Under his leadership, Cheer Films continues to deliver narrative-driven work spanning commercials, branded content, documentaries, and live interactive events.
Producer
Pearl Thomas is a seasoned producer, actor, and storyteller with over two decades of experience in television, film, and theatre. Her work spans documentary, narrative, commercial, and branded content—including Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain (CNN/Tremolo), The Next Thing You Eat (Hulu), and collaborations with platforms such as HBO, Netflix, ABC, and NBC. She has also produced stories for Adobe MAX, working with creative visionaries like Ryan Reynolds, Mel Robbins, Yuko Shimizu, and José Andrés.
Since co-founding her production company in 2013, Pearl has built a reputation for creative leadership, intuitive storytelling, and a collaborative, heart-forward approach to production. She recently co-produced a four-day MasterClass shoot featuring Martha Stewart, working as part of a production team hired by MasterClass to bring Stewart’s vision to life with elegance and precision.
Pearl’s creative journey deepened following a pivotal chapter in her personal life, reconnecting her with the power of storytelling as a tool for resilience, purpose, and transformation. Her work continues to center real people, real change, and the belief that honest stories can move us forward.
She recently produced a TEDx event in New York City focused on the global concept of “polycrisis”—the intersection of compounding challenges—and the optimism and innovation rising to meet them. She is also actively exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance creative work, expand access, and reimagine the future of human-centered media.
Whether leading complex productions or building teams driven by impact, Pearl brings clarity, care, and curiosity to every story she helps tell