Biography

Cristina Costantini, born and raised in Wisconsin, is an Emmy Award-winning director and producer renowned for her compelling documentaries that blend investigative rigor with heartfelt storytelling. A graduate of Yale University, Cristina began her career as an investigative journalist, delving into critical issues such as immigration, detention centers, and the opioid epidemic. Her impactful reporting earned her accolades, including a GLAAD Media Award, two Emmy nominations, and an Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award. Transitioning to documentary filmmaking, Cristina co-directed "Science Fair," a film that follows nine high school students as they compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair. The documentary won the inaugural Festival Favorite Award at the Sundance Film Festival and an Emmy Award, cementing her reputation as a talented filmmaker. In 2020, Cristina co-directed "Mucho Mucho Amor," a documentary about the legendary astrologer Walter Mercado. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was later released on Netflix, receiving critical acclaim and a nomination for a Critics Choice Award. As a partner at Muck Media, a Los Angeles-based production company, Cristina continues to focus on character-driven storytelling that highlights underrepresented narratives. In 2024, Muck Media received 21 Emmy nominations, underscoring its commitment to impactful journalism and storytelling. Cristina resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Alfie, their daughter, Penny, and their elderly pug, Harriet.