A Filmmaker’s Journey of Bold Storytelling and Redemption

 

Spencer Folmar is an American filmmaker, producer, and storyteller known for his fearless approach to cinema. His films explore raw, real-world struggles while maintaining themes of hope, redemption, and faith. As the founder of Hard Faith Films, he has carved a unique space in the industry, blending faith-based storytelling with an unfiltered look at life’s toughest challenges.

 

Early Life and Education

 

Born and raised in rural, rust belt Pennsylvania, Folmar’s small-town

upbringing deeply influenced his storytelling. The struggles, faith, and

resilience he saw growing up in Pennsylvania shaped his commitment

to telling authentic, hard-hitting narratives.

 

He pursued higher education with remarkable speed, earning a

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Grove City College

in just two years. His passion for storytelling was complemented

by his theological studies, leading him to earn a Master of Arts

in Theological Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary. Currently, he is further honing his skills by pursuing an M.A. in Media Producing at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he is refining his approach to both the business and creative aspects of filmmaking.

 

Film Career and Hard Faith Films

 

In 2011, Folmar launched Hard Faith Films, a production company dedicated to producing films that depict life’s brokenness while offering the hope of redemption. His work stands apart from traditional faith-based films, which often shy away from difficult topics. Instead, Folmar believes in portraying real-life struggles with unflinching honestywhile maintaining themes of faith and grace. Folmar's personal directing company he has been utilizing since 2005 is SpenceTF™ Productions LLC based in Pennsylvania. Folmar made his first feature film when he was 17 years old and has been creating movies ever since. 

 

Present and Future Projects

 

In 2025, Spencer Folmar remains at the forefront of independent faith-based filmmaking. He is actively developing new projects under Hard Faith Films, continuing his mission of telling stories that liberate. Beyond his own productions, he is also directing films for other producers and writers, further expanding his impact on the industry. His ability to bring bold, unfiltered narratives to life makes him a sought-after director in both faith-based and mainstream independent filmmaking circles. Folmar founded a new literary representation management company called American Talent Management in 2022 that is based in Beverly Hills, CA. The firm represents artists from various backgrounds all over the world.

 

A Passion for Independent Filmmaking

 

In addition to his filmmaking, Folmar is a champion of independent cinema.

He has self-distributed multiple films, leveraging his deep industry connections.

He has been a consistent presence at the American Film Market (AFM) for

over a decade, using his expertise in self-distribution to bring

hard faith films to global audiences.

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Folmar owned a small independent theatre chain before the pandemic,

and also owned and operated a restaurant called the Cinema Grille

in Western Pennsylvania. Folmar has worked on numerous entrepreneurial

endeavors and companies throughout his life that always blend his passion

for great stories and serving his community.  

 

Through the Hard Faith Film Festival, he provides a platform for emerging

voices in faith-based storytelling, ensuring that independent filmmakers

who share his commitment to authenticity have a space to showcase their work.

 

Personal Life and Family

 

Beyond his career, Spencer’s greatest joy is his family. He is married to McKenna Folmar, and they share a deep bond, supporting each other in both life and work. In 2023, they welcomed their daughter, Margaret Riley Folmar. The couple also experienced profound heartbreak with the passing of their second daughter, Mary Claire Leesa Folmar, in 2024. Spencer has spoken about the impact of this loss, sharing a heartfelt family photo and reflecting on the fragility and beauty of life.

 

Resilience is Key​

 

Spencer Folmar is a filmmaker who refuses to shy away from the messiness of life. Whether tackling themes of addiction, generational trauma, or redemption, his films seek to provoke conversation and inspire transformation. With his unwavering faith and bold storytelling, he has established himself as one of the most unique voices in modern independent cinema.

 

As he steps into 2025 and beyond, Spencer continues to challenge expectations, push boundaries, and tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences. Folmar is always pushing himself and others to strive for excellence and risk boldly for a better tomorrow. Whether through his work as a director, producer, or mentor to emerging filmmakers, he remains dedicated to his mission: telling stories that liberate.