Kelly Paoli is a queer filmmaker from Toronto, Canada whose journey in storytelling began in front of the camera. Barely out of high school, Paoli spent years auditioning and acting in Toronto’s indie film scene before discovering where her passion truly lied. She began writing and producing digital series, leading her to create, write, direct and produce Canal+’s ‘The Village Green’.

Paoli has an affinity for poignant visual comedy and intimate portrayals of people, both fiction and documentary. She likes to tell stories that explore existential themes, the intersection of queer identity and performative behaviour, and the anxieties that come with being a woman. Paoli’s writing and directing work has screened at festivals across the globe, including the Marseille Web Fest, Austin Web Fest and the Diversity in Cannes: Short Film & Web Series Showcase. Recent work includes award winning Shaftesbury KindaTV’s lesbian comedy series ‘Barbelle’, a Canada Council for the Arts funded dramatic short titled ‘I Only Kiss In The Dark’ and ‘Our Stories’, a documentary series about mental health and empathy. She is a graduate of York University’s inaugural 2013 Film Screenwriting BFA, with a minor in Creative Writing.
 

Currently, Paoli is in production of a documentary feature film called ‘Crossing Space’, which follows the story of Canada’s National Womens' Sitting Volleyball Team and their journey to the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. She is directing, producing and editing the film.