Little Spark Films:
Where Passion Meets Punk Precision
Little Spark Films (LSF) was built on innovation and weirdness. With nothing but a vision and a week to execute, the team produced their first short film, a raw, passionate project that was accepted, even without the awards. That was the spark that ignited a commitment to pushing boundaries.
Now, LSF stands at the intersection of creativity and professionalism, offering a distinct “punk filmmaking” approach. It’s about more than just crafting films; it’s about taking risks, challenging conventions, and delivering fresh perspectives. From high-end sets for major productions to bespoke shoots for local businesses and independent musicians across the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, LSF has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, distinctive content.
With a focus on delivering standout work, Little Spark Films provides clients with innovative filmmaking solutions that are both artistic and precise, while always staying true to the rebellious spirit that started it all.
The Little Spark Films Team
Joe Manco
Co-Founder, President & Head of Development
Joe Manco attended the Academy of Irving, where he excelled in Media Technology & Communications. During his time at the Academy, he developed a passion for filmmaking and began working on various projects. Joe's unique style of filmmaking is best described as comically dark and violent. His most notable works include "The Torturer," which was released in 2020, and "Vicemares," which premiered in December 2023. Both films have received critical acclaim for their compelling storytelling and thought-provoking themes.
Catalina Querida
Co-Founder, COO
This journey originally began with Catalina only singing, acting in, and editing all LSF projects. But since then, she has expanded toward screenwriting, directing & producing. She has managed to keep the team tightly knit while keeping them incredibly productive. From music videos, web series, and podcasts to commercial and narrative storytelling. Catalina has guided the LSF team through many tumultuous struggles and in the end, every project reaches completion followed by one blessing after the next. Catalina will do whatever it takes to make sure that LSF is safe, comfortable, productive, and producing great quality work. Even if it means wearing ten different hats at once.
Chris Rushing
CFO
Chris Rushing is a born and raised Texan. From his origins in small town west Texas, he was raised on Monstervision, Dinner and a Movie on TBS, video store rentals, and classic SNES games. Ever since reading Lloyd Kaufman’s “Make Your Own Damn Movie” in 2003, he gained a deeper understanding of what goes into making movies and the importance of teamwork through such ventures. Throughout his various times working in retail and construction, his love of film has persisted.
Preston Fassel
Creative Director
Preston Fassel is an award-winning author, producer, screenwriter, and journalist. His debut novel, Our Lady of the Inferno, was named one of the best horror books of 2018 by Bloody Disgusting and won the Independent Publisher’s Gold Medal for Horror. From 2013 to 2017 he was a regular contributor to Rue Morgue Magazine. From 2017 to 2020, he was a staff writer for Fangoria and creative executive in their film division, a role that led to his becoming an independent producer, screenwriter, and script consultant. In addition to his writing and film work, Preston was certified as Tetris world champion in 2009, a title he held “for like five months”.
Mary Beth McAndrews
Marketing Director
Mary Beth McAndrews is a filmmaker and journalist with a passion for horror films. Previously she was editor-in-chief at Dread Central—one of the biggest horror film sites in the world. She’s also worked at companies such as Discovery Communications and National Geographic doing social media and digital marketing executions. She has an upcoming book on Paranormal Activity (2009) releasing in 2026.