Ron Ray (RR) is the founder of RR Film Production, established in 2005 to craft original feature films for theatrical and digital audiences. Over the years, he has expanded his creative portfolio by producing and directing commercials, music videos, and short films, while also acting in films and television both internationally and within the United States.
In addition to his creative endeavors, RR has been a seasoned professional in finance. Since 1997, he has managed multi-million-dollar private investments on Wall Street, specializing in portfolios for Hollywood producers, actors, physicians, business owners, and retirement plans.
With over 35 years of experience as a filmmaker and actor in Hollywood and Bollywood, RR has left a significant mark on indie film production in recent times. Alongside his wife and producing partner, Michelle Ray, RR led RR Film Production to finance, produce, and distribute the critically acclaimed Netflix Original feature Trees of Peace (TOP) in 2022, which launched multiple careers in Hollywood. Recognizing the extraordinary talent of first-time writer/director Alanna Brown through Instagram in 2019, RR fully financed the project, overseeing every stage from pre-production, and physical production to post-production. He also personally negotiated the film's licensing deal as a Netflix Original with Netflix.
Trees of Peace premiered globally in 191 countries across 32 languages on June 10, 2022. Garnering a 100% critics' score and 85% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film received widespread recognition. It won prestigious awards, including the Panavision Jury Award and the ADL-Santa Barbara Humanitarian Award at the 2021 Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Additional accolades include Best Film and Best Director at the Phoenix Film Festival, Best Film and Best Screenplay at the 2021 African International Film Festival, and Best Ensemble Cast at the Rising Sun International Film Festival in Japan. The film also earned multiple awards at the 2021 American Black Film Festival, including the John Singleton Award for Best First Feature, Best Director, and Best Narrative Feature. RR’s contributions to Trees of Peace earned him the distinguished Producers Guild of America p.g.a. watermark.
RR’s acting credentials include his performance alongside international Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan and Mexican star Bárbara Mori in the global blockbuster Kites, which was released theatrically in 30 countries across 500 screens in May 2010. Beyond acting, RR has written, directed, and produced numerous pilots, short films, music videos, and commercials. He has also shadow-produced feature films and frequently shares his expertise as a guest speaker at universities, mentoring students and emerging filmmakers on all aspects of film production, financing, and distribution.
Over the years, Ron and Michelle Ray have built an extensive network across Hollywood and Bollywood, collaborating with A-list producers, directors, actors, streamers, and major studios. RR maintains strong relationships with top agencies such as UTA, CAA, and WME, and is very well respected as a filmmaker & producer in the entertainment industry.
Blending artistic vision with exceptional business acumen, RR epitomizes the rare combination of filmmaker and businessman. His financial expertise enhances his efficiency and effectiveness as a producer and director.
On a personal note, RR is a devoted family man and takes pride in his partnership with Michelle Ray, both in life and work. His guiding philosophy is encapsulated in his favorite quote: “People don’t fail because they lack resources, people fail because they lack resourcefulness.”