These days,Cory Edwards is mostly known as a writer / director of Hollywood movies like the animated comedy “HOODWINKED,” but he’s been involved in almost every creative area of the business for over twenty years. Working in commercials, music videos, and feature films, he has also served as producer, actor, animator, art director, editor, storyboard artist, songwriter and even a grip for the camera department. It’s given him a respect and appreciation for all aspects of the process as he launches his next venture.
Cory’s first big splash in feature films was producing and acting in the Sundance film “CHILLICOTHE.” He made his directing debut with “HOODWINKED” soon after. “HOODWINKED” retells the tale of Red Riding Hood as a crime story, told from multiple points of view. Made totally outside of the studio system and for a tenth of the cost, the film was picked up by moguls Bob and Harvey Weinstein. Cory worked with the voice talents of Glenn Close, Anne Hathaway, Chazz Palminteri and Jim Belushi, and voiced the coffee-addicted squirrel, “Twitchy” himself. He also wrote two of the songs for the soundtrack. To complete the film, Cory and his crew worked under unique circumstances to save costs, wearing multiple hats and constantly traveling to a start-up studio in the Philippines. Cory made fifteen trips to Manila in two years.
The work paid off. “HOODWINKED” caught the attention of top talent, a major studio, and was even mixed by Academy Award winning sound designers at George Lucas’ Skywalker Sound. The film became one of the top-grossing movies during its theatrical release in the spring of 2006, and has since grossed over 100 million dollars worldwide.
During his time behind the camera, Cory has also paid his dues as a stand-up comic and on-air host of music video shows, a national radio show and ESPN’s “K9 NATION.” This eclectic career has given him a lot of “war stories” to share from the front lines of pop culture!
Cory speaks to crowds all over the world about his experiences in Hollywood, both as a Christian and as a storyteller trying to make a difference in the powerful medium of film. Cory will tailor his talk to your specific audience, hold Q & A’s after a screening of one of his films, or simply share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his current project. His humorous delivery after years of performing will keep an audience of any age engaged, enlightened and inspired.
Among Cory’s current projects are the science fiction adventure “ESCAPE FROM PLANET EARTH,” the sequel “HOODWINKED 2” and the much-anticipated “FRAGGLE ROCK: THE MOVIE,” based on the hit TV show from Jim Henson.
I'm a pastor's kid. But not the wild, rebellious kind. The "so goody-goody it makes you sick" kind. I wish I could tell you a colorful testimony that takes me through a rocky history of drugs, alcohol, sex or gangs. But to be honest, I wasn't ever cool enough to get offered any of those things. I never ran far from God, and was blessed to grow up in a loving Christian home. But God has taken me on my own rocky road, and that path has made me stronger as His follower.
It was at seventh grade Youth Camp when I walked to the proverbial walk to the altar and made my parents’ faith my own. At that age, I knew what it meant. But I’m still being taught. Ever since that day, I have been shown his unfailing love, patience and grace in the midst of my shortcomings. When I met my wife, her charismatic background clashed with my conservative roots and I was opened up to contemporary styles of worship. Now we go to a church that merges both. Who knew?
If I had to pick one phrase to sum up my life with Christ, it would be "walk of faith." There have been many moments where I have left all safe options behind and stepped out into the unknown future. And God has been there. I am a fervent believer in living your dreams, and my wife and I painfully put our finances and careers on the line to do just that. God's provisions have been nothing short of miraculous. Now I am directing films, traveling the country as a comedian and making an impact as an entertainer and storyteller in the mainstream entertainment industry.
As a venue for Christ's message, I can think of no greater platform. Every day I get to wake up and participate in God's plan. I feel blessed. He is opening doors to reach a pop culture where the Christian perspective is far from politically correct. And to meet that challenge, I take pride in being excellent in front of such a tough crowd. That's why I like to tell people I am a comedian who is a Christian, not a Christian Comedian... there's a difference. My act reaches all people. And if in some way that breaks down barriers and draws them to a community of believers, then I've done my job. Christ comes in and does the rest.