Some filmmakers chase spectacle; others chase truth. John Biffar does both—but with a rare ability to weave heart, history, and humanity into every frame. Over the past three decades, the Emmy Award-winning director has taken audiences across worlds: from the trash dumps of Guatemala City in Children of the Fourth World (1999) to the orange blossoms and flamenco dancers of The Spirit of Seville (2024). He has worked with legends like Walter Cronkite and Ali MacGraw, but his true passion lies in bringing overlooked stories to life—the ones that demand to be told, the ones that change lives.
Born into a large Catholic family as the youngest of seven, Biffar’s journey into filmmaking wasn’t scripted. It was shaped by surf films, a chance internship, and a knack for storytelling that landed him behind the camera before he even knew where it would take him. From his early days rigging skydiving cameras to later producing award-winning documentaries, Biffar has followed a path of serendipity, faith, and fearless creativity.
But filmmaking, to him, is more than just moving images—it’s a way to uncover hidden truths, bring people together, and inspire change. His latest project, Curveballs (2025), which won Best Feature Film at the Fort Myers Film Festival in May, tells the incredible story of America’s only amputee baseball team, a film that continues his tradition of capturing resilience and the human spirit. As he looks forward, with projects like War Junkies in development, Biffar remains committed to stories that matter—stories that inform, uplift, and unite.
Through it all, he stays grounded. His laid-back demeanor, his love for collaboration, and his belief in storytelling as a tool for connection have made him a standout in the industry. And with nine Emmys to his name, his journey is far from over.
Finding His Path: From Surf Films to Emmy-Winning Documentaries
Before John Biffar ever stepped behind a professional camera, he was capturing moments in the ocean—shooting surf films and still photography for his school. But it wasn’t just the visuals that pulled him in; it was the marriage of movement and music that unlocked a deeper fascination with filmmaking. Watching his first surf movie, where the rhythm of the waves met the beat of the soundtrack, was the spark that led him down this path.
Though he enjoyed films as a child, it was grand, sweeping narratives like Ben-Hur (1959) and Samson and Delilah (1949) that left lasting impressions. Their larger-than-life storytelling—epic action intertwined with spiritual themes—helped shape his cinematic perspective. “That was very moving to me,” Biffar remembers. “It made an impression on me.”
But filmmaking wasn’t something he deliberately sought out. Instead, it found him. As a student at the University of South Florida, Biffar stumbled into an opportunity that changed everything. One day, running late to class, he followed a friend into a TV news course—where the instructor happened to be the head photographer at NBC. His experience working with 16mm film made him stand out, and soon, he landed an internship at Channel 8 in Tampa.
It was there that he caught the attention of NBC anchorman Bob Hite. After rigging a World War II-era gun camera onto a helmet for a skydiving feature, Biffar’s footage stunned the newsroom. “Who shot this?” Hite asked. Learning that the camerawork had come from an intern, Hite immediately brought Biffar onto his team. That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong mentorship and friendship—one that set him on the path to becoming the filmmaker he is today.
From Newsrooms to the Big Screen: Building a Career in Film
With his internship-turned-job at Channel 8, Biffar quickly learned the ropes of visual storytelling—first as a feature reporter, then as a cameraman, writer, and on-air talent. But news segments weren’t enough. He wanted to create something deeper, something longer-lasting.
In 1980, he took a leap, forming his own production company, Dreamtime Entertainment Digital. His goal wasn’t just to make films, but to craft stories that mattered—films with heart, with impact, with a message. That same philosophy led to his Emmy-winning documentary, Children of the Fourth World, which took more than a decade to complete.
The project began with a single, haunting image: children scavenging through Guatemala City’s dump, searching for scraps to survive. When Biffar first saw footage of the American humanitarian Kari Engen working with these children, he couldn’t turn away. It was a reality so stark and unimaginable that it demanded to be told. Over the years, he filmed, researched, and connected with the people living in those conditions, determined to share their story.
Children of the Fourth World would remain one of his favorite film experiences. “Up to the point I made that film, I had seen many of the world’s most beautiful places. As a feature reporter, I went to a lot of dive locations to film and had really wonderful experiences around the world. And after a while, you kind of get tired looking at sunsets. Then a friend of mine showed me some footage he had shot of this woman in the city dump in Guatemala City, and I was just enthralled by it. You know, the conditions there that these kids were living in and her giving up her whole life outside to take care of these people. And it just blew me away.”
The film had a profound impact—not only on audiences, but on real lives. The project seemed to attract what Biffar calls “God moments”. He was working with Ali MacGraw on another project in Alaska, and when she found out about what he was doing in Guatemala, she went with him there and agreed to host the film, which made a tremendous difference in distribution. Then, after its release, philanthropist Paul Bush stepped in and bought land to build a new school for the children featured in the documentary. And despite the immense challenges she faced, including an ALS diagnosis, Kari Engen’s story remained one of hope. Against all odds, she continued walking again—a miracle that, in Biffar’s words, was a testament to her faith and resilience.
“Kari simply has a special connection with God. Her faith moves mountains. It’s unbelievable. One day I had brought down a prosthetist. This little boy had an arm missing, and he needed a left hand. So, a prosthetist, Steve Fries, flew with us and made it. Made a left arm for this little boy. After a few years, he outgrew it. And Kari said, ‘Well, we’re just praying that another doctor comes and that he’ll get a new arm,’ you know? And then she called me, and she says, ‘I have good news. I got a new arm for Rafael.’ And I asked, ‘How did you get it? Who came down? What doctor?’ But she answers, ‘Oh, no, it wasn’t from a doctor. One of the dump trucks dropped its dumping off. And out came an arm.’ And it wasn’t just a right arm; it was a left arm! So, that’s just one example of Kari’s faith, and how God never lets her down.”
Beyond Children of the Fourth World, Biffar’s career became a tapestry of historical, cultural, and human-driven films. Uncommon Friends of the Twentieth Century (1999) explored the bonds between Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone—narrated by none other than iconic journalist Walter Cronkite. Later, Queen of Swing (2010) celebrated Norma Miller’s contributions to jazz, capturing the spirit of Harlem’s golden era. Among his recent works, Blown Away: Spirit of Recovery (2024), documented the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, highlighting stories of resilience in the face of disaster.
Beyond his own projects, Biffar has built PeaceVision, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to creating “high-vibrational content”—films and media that uplift and inspire, films that, “after you watch them, make you a better person in some way or otherwise help you in some way,” Biffar explains. While he still operates Dreamtime Entertainment, PeaceVision serves as an extension of his philosophy, exploring topics that bring people together and enhance personal well-being.
John Biffar’s Filmography
Captiva Island (1994) –
A feature film that saw theatrical release and aired on HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, Encore, and Starz. The family-friendly comedy-drama follows a teenager vacationing on Captiva Island, Florida, who, while feeling uncertain about his future, finds friendship and adventure with a group of quirky elderly residents.
Children of the Fourth World (1999) –
Emmy-winning documentary exploring the harsh realities faced by impoverished children in Guatemala City. The film follows the story of Kari Engen, an American humanitarian who dedicated her life to helping abandoned children living in the city’s massive trash dump.
Uncommon Friends of the Twentieth Century (1999) –
A documentary featuring Walter Cronkite, exploring the friendships of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and James Newton.
The Nazi Plan to Bomb New York (2002) –
A documentary commissioned by The History Channel that explores a chilling secret project from World War II, in which Nazi Germany attempted to develop a long-range bomber capable of striking New York City.
John Paul II: A Saint for Our Times (2008) –
A documentary on the life of Pope John Paul II, which debuted at the Vatican, examining his spiritual journey, his openness to other religious traditions, and his impact on global freedom movements. Biffar’s storytelling approach highlights the Pope’s charismatic personality and fearless advocacy for human rights.
Under the Sea (2009) –
A PBS documentary on legendary underwater cinematographer Al Giddings, exploring the beauty and mystery of ocean life and showcasing Giddings’ groundbreaking techniques in underwater filmmaking. Nominated for the Golden Reel Award for Best Sound Editing – Special Venue from the Motion Picture Sound Editors, USA in 2011 and for Best Original Score for a Documentary Film by the International Film Music Critics Award (IFMCA) in 2009.
Fire Boats of 9-11 (2009) –
A History Channel documentary portraying the heroic efforts of the New York Fire Department following the September 11 attacks. The film focuses on the fireboats that played a crucial role in emergency response, providing water supply and firefighting support when traditional infrastructure was compromised.
Queen of Swing (2010) –
A documentary narrated by Bill Cobbs, highlighting Norma Miller’s influence on jazz culture and racial integration and featuring interviews with legendary figures like Bill Cosby, B.B. King, Frankie Manning, and Leonard Reed. The film showcases Miller’s journey from Harlem’s Savoy Ballroom to international stages, highlighting her contributions to swing dance and music. It includes rare archival footage and personal stories that illustrate how Miller helped shape the cultural landscape of jazz and swing.
Cuba Reframed (2020) –
A documentary exploring Cuba’s history, culture, and people. The film follows a group of artists, filmmakers, and marine biologists who set sail from Key West to Cuba aboard the schooner Wolf, just before the U.S. government reimposed travel restrictions on the island. Best Florida Film at the 2020 Key West Film Festival.
Blown Away: Spirit of Recovery (2024) –
A documentary narrated by NBC News Anchorman Lester Holt, the film captures the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian and highlights the resilience and compassion of the community in its aftermath. Best Documentary at the 14th Annual Fort Myers Film Festival.
Spirit of Seville (2024) –
The film features flamenco sensation Manuel Jimenez and follows two sisters, both musicians, as they work reinventing the art and music of flamenco with Captiva musician Johnny Jensen. The feature shows how for centuries, thousands of people converge on Seville on Easter week. They celebrate faith, family, and friends. Processions of the Virgin Mary crisscross the streets at all hours, orange blossoms perfume the air, delicious tapas and wine are savored in street-side cafes, and flamenco dancers dazzle the thousands of visitors that swell this ancient city.
Worth the Fight (2025) –
A documentary focusing on Fort Myers’ SJC Boxing Club and its role in helping troubled youth overcome personal challenges through boxing. Premiered in April 2025 in New York.
Curveballs (2025) –
The film tells the inspiring story of The Louisville Sluggers, America’s only amputee baseball team, showcasing their resilience, competitive spirit, and ability to overcome adversity. Best Feature Film at the 15th Annual Fort Myers Film Festival.
Collaboration & Creativity: The People Behind the Films
Filmmaking, as Biffar sees it, is a team effort. While he’s been the driving force behind many projects, he recognizes that the success of a film is shaped by all the people who bring it to life—editors, composers, cameramen, and on-screen talent.
Throughout his career, Biffar has worked with a remarkable range of figures, including Don Shula (late coach of the Miami Dolphins), Norma Miller (The Queen of Swing), Ernest Borgnine (McHale’s Navy (1964), From Here to Eternity (1953), The Wild Bunch (1965), Marty (1955)), Helio Castroneves (Indy Car Champion and Dancing with the Stars Mirror Ball winner), Arte Johnson (Laugh-In), Bill Cobbs (Night at the Museum (2006), The Brother from Another Planet (1984)) Ali MacGraw (Love Story (1970), Goodbye, Columbus (1969)), Olympic skater Dorothy Hamill and Jacques Cousteau.
Collaborating with journalist Walter Cronkite on Uncommon Friends of the Twentieth Century was particularly memorable. Initially skeptical of the story, Cronkite had his team fact-check the documentary’s premise before agreeing to participate. Once he confirmed its authenticity, he narrated the film with his signature gravitas, bringing history to life.
Biffar has also worked alongside his sons—Sean, Scott, and David—each of whom has carved a niche in film production. Sean, the eldest, focuses on music videos, working with DJs in New York; Scott is an editor and shooter based in Florida; and David, the youngest, specializes in underwater cinematography and drone footage in Hawaii. Together, they’ve contributed to Biffar’s latest documentary, Curveballs, a story of resilience and determination.
Music plays a critical role in Biffar’s storytelling. He often collaborates with composers like Kat Epple (our Naples Noteworthy April feature) and, more recently, Johnny Jensen, a new artist who composed the soundtrack for Curveballs. Whether drawing from original compositions or scouring vast music libraries, Biffar believes that the right soundtrack elevates a film—connecting audiences emotionally in a way visuals alone cannot. “Music is something that moves the soul,” he attests, “and when you have the right score, it conveys a feeling and an emotion that nothing else can. Words can’t and even visuals can’t. But when you have the right soundtrack, with the right visuals and with the right storyline, it’s unbelievably powerful. So, I spend a lot of time listening to music.”
While he enjoys music in a variety of styles, Biffar especially likes alternative rock, some rock and roll, and jazz.
Capturing History: Biffar’s Most Memorable Moments
Over the years, John Biffar has found himself in unforgettable situations—whether sailing with Walter Cronkite, filming in the depths of the ocean, or documenting the resilience of communities in crisis. But two encounters stand out as a mix of sheer luck and quick thinking: his unexpected interview with President Jimmy Carter and an impromptu evening with music icon Jimmy Buffett.
An Interview by Chance: Jimmy Carter
While returning from a film shoot in Africa, Biffar made a routine stop at Boston’s airport before continuing to Atlanta. As he stood on the tarmac, he looked up—and there, right in front of him, was President Carter himself. With his camera equipment in tow, Biffar knew he had a rare opportunity.
He introduced himself, explained that he had been filming in Africa—a region Carter deeply cared about—and asked if he could do a quick interview. Carter was willing, but he had one condition: Biffar needed to write down the questions. The problem? He had nothing to write on. Improvising, he grabbed the nearest available surface—a barf bag from the airplane—and scribbled the questions down before handing them over to the Secret Service. Carter approved, and the interview went forward.
Beyond the serendipitous nature of the encounter, what stood out to Biffar was Carter’s genuine concern for humanitarian efforts. The former president not only gave him time for the interview but even invited him to visit his presidential library, which was under construction at the time.
A Surprise Guest: Jimmy Buffett
Biffar’s collaborations with journalist Walter Cronkite made a lasting impression, but one night led to an encounter that was just as surreal. When Uncommon Friends of the Twentieth Century was set to premiere in Fort Myers, Cronkite asked Biffar if he could bring a guest.
“Of course!” he replied, expecting a colleague or family member. But what happened next was anything but ordinary.
As Biffar and his team gathered at producer Paul Bush’s condo in Sanibel, they heard the unmistakable roar of a seaplane circling overhead. The plane landed right in front of the condo. Cronkite glanced out and said, “Oh, Jimmy’s here.”
Moments later, stepping off the plane and joining the group was none other than Jimmy Buffett. The musician had come to the premiere, turning the event into an unforgettable evening.
These moments—whether spontaneous interviews with presidents or surprise arrivals of rock legends—reflect Biffar’s ability to seize opportunities and embrace the unpredictable nature of storytelling. From documentaries to unscripted encounters, his career has been a testament to the art of being ready when the moment arrives.
Reflections & Looking Ahead: Lessons from a Life in Film
With nine Emmys to his name and decades of experience in filmmaking, John Biffar has built a career that blends creativity, perseverance, and faith. But looking back, he doesn’t dwell on regrets. “There are probably a lot of things I would do differently if I could do it over again,” he admits, “but that’s life. And you wouldn’t have learned the lessons otherwise. Because I think when we do it the wrong way, we learn those life lessons.”
For Biffar, filmmaking is about following opportunities as they come—trusting instinct over rigid planning. His philosophy is simple: just start. He encourages young filmmakers not to wait for everything to be perfect, because, in his experience, waiting too long often means never starting at all. “I would say just do it—not to steal Nike’s ad, but if you wait for the money to be there, if you wait for all life circumstances to be perfect, it’ll never happen,” Biffar advises. “And I think you just have to get started. Even if it isn’t any good because, you know, my first films, I think were embarrassingly bad. But I loved doing them so, the point is, whenever you’re doing what you love to do, there is no wrong, and we’re privileged to be able to do that. So, I just encourage people to get out there and make something, anything.”
As for what’s next, Biffar has several projects in the works. With Curveballs having just premiered at the Fort Myers Film Festival—where, as mentioned, it won Best Feature Film—his focus is on marketing and distribution of that film. He’s also intent on transforming his Norma Miller documentary into a feature film and is developing War Junkies, a film about Jim Bennett, a journalist who covered more stories in Vietnam than anyone else. The project also delves into the evolving state of journalism. “It used to be the facts and only the facts,” Biffar explains. “Now it’s more your opinion and telling people what they want to hear, but that’s another story.”
With his latest film having won Best Feature Film at its premiere and new projects on the horizon, Biffar’s journey as a storyteller is far from over. And if his past work is any indication, his future films will continue to inform, uplift, and inspire—connecting audiences through stories that truly matter.
John Biffar lives in South Fort Myers. A special call out here to Pearl, who Biffar’s girlfriend Christine rescued from a kennel.
Extraordinary People
