Cookie Estés is a filmmaker and post-production multitool with a gut sense for melodic rhythm and comedic timing. Since graduating from DePaul University’s School of Cinematic Arts in 2020, Cookie has been editing music videos in Chicago, managing a non-profit comedy club on the weekends, and hoofing it around the globe viewing and reviewing movies at film festivals. 

As an editor and colorist, Cookie has been live-cutting in-studio performances at Audiotree Studios for the last 3 years. Turning active listening into visual accompaniment, Cookie has honed the unique skill of technical directing and real-time editing live-streamed events on the fly – from the wings of the Salt Shed to backstage at the House of Blues. 

As a writer, Cookie has built a Letterboxd readership by penning accessible, cheeky film reviews as well as maintaining a long-form newsletter on Substack called FILM BOEUF. These outlets, which began as simple writing disciplines, have led Cookie around the world doing press coverage for internationally-renowned festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, and TIFF.