"Our Mind is Our Open Light"
Derek Pfister is an award-winning Cinematographer and Editor based in Milwaukee, WI. Creator of Chair on Stair Films. Through the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Derek received his Bachelor of Science degree in Radio-TV-Film with a minor in Journalism.
For over two decades, Derek’s career as a filmmaker continues to take him across the Midwest to produce content for clients and create films. In May of 2024, Derek reached a career high of being part of a film that screened at the Cannes Film Festival in France. His documentary series “The Next Frame” continues to inspire creatives of all types, showcasing hidden talent throughout the Midwest.
Film and video are his passion, his mistress, it is what he loves to do. Derek hopes to achieve meaning & passion with his work.
Reasonable Doubt
(
Film (short)
by Pico Blvd Entertainment / Daniel Pico (Drama)
Grip, Production “Reasonable Doubt” is a seven-minute-long legal thriller short drama. It revolves around a car accident, during which a mother loses her son and the offending parties won’t say who was driving or what happened.
Rearview
(
Film (short)
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister (Drama)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor Movie type: Road Movie / Drama
Written by Steven A. Riva
Directed by Derek Pfister and Steven A. Riva
D.O.P. Derek Pfister and Caleb Peavy
Music by Jason Michael Owens
Tagline
A journey through conflict to love.
Synopsis:
After the passing of her parents Mary Nordestrom and her husband make the journey home reliving the hard truths that they left behind.
The Next Frame
(
Series
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister / Brendan Adams (Documentary)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor Welcome to "The Next Frame".
We sit and talk with professional creatives throughout Wisconsin. Learn as we ask specific questions about how they got started to where they are today.
Creatives featured:
1) Alex Belville
We sat down with Wisconsin filmmaker, Alex Belville. Owner and creator of Mirrorless Productions, his passion for storytelling is continually taking him on a journey to advance his craft. Whether it's capturing an event, wedding, or creating a business video for a client, Alex and his team at Mirrorless Productions are always on the move.
2) Wes Tank
We sat down with Multimedia Performing Artists and Filmmaker, Wes Tank. Owner and creator StoryRaps and TankThink, Wes Tank has a true love for storytelling. Whether it's rapping Dr. Seuss stories to entertain children of all ages or making an impact in the global community, Wes Tank is here to present material that evokes powerful emotion.
3) Terry King
We sat down with creative artist, Terry King. Born and raised in Chicago, IL, Terry grew up in a family full of creative talent. Terry fell in love with acting and music alongside his brother. After realizing a normal desk job wasn't for him, Terry turned his passion into a career as a professional actor. There's nothing better than doing what you love, and Terry's story showcases just that.
Created by Derek Pfister & Brendan Adams.
Filmed by Derek Pfister & Brendan Adams.
Drone videography by Derek Pfister.
Edited by Derek Pfister.
Connect with Chair on Stair Films:
https://www.chaironstairfilms.com
Chair on Stair Films
© All Rights Reserved 2023
Mariner’s Widow
(
Film (short)
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister (Horror)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor “Mariner’s Widow”
A ticket to doom and torment.
Brief Synopsis:
Two hikers find themselves in a nightmarish cellar.
Setting:
The cellar of an abandoned lighthouse and nearby beach.
Just Pans
(
Film (short)
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister (Comedy)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor Not Every Job Pans Out.
Character
Warren or Wanda Matson, New Employee
Line
"Contrary to popular belief, I'm a nice person." or "Contrary to popular belief, I am a nice person."
Newton’s Cradle
(
Film (short)
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister (Comedy)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor Tagline: Maybe therapy isn't for everyone.
Logline: Some people just won't let you ge
Shutter Shock
(
Film (short)
by Chair on Stair Films / Derek Pfister (Comedy)
Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor Logline: "A shuttering Tuesday like no other".
Synopsis: "A down on his luck actor finds himself in a precarious situation."
Award of Excellence | Communicator Awards for “The Next Frame”
(2024)
YouTube Creator Award
(2023)
Best Cinematography Award for “Newton’s Cradle” 48 Hour Film Project
(2022)
University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
(2013-2015)
University of Wisconsin-Waukesha
(2009-2012)