Michael Dallatorre, known as “Mike D,” the Nicaragua born director of photography arrived in the United States at the age of three and grew up in South Central Los Angeles. Mike D. was featured in the Oscar nominated documentary “Colors Straight Up” which followed his participation in the inner city performing arts group, Colors United. That experience inspired him become a filmmaker. Mike D, was recognized for his talents and promising future with the Beating the Odds Award (presented by Marian Wright Edelman of the Children’s Defense Fund.) After graduating from Jordan High School in Watts, CA, Mike entered programs, Inner- City Filmmakers and went on to study film at Los Angeles Community College.