Filmmaker Bio
Johnathon DeSoto is a documentary and commercial filmmaker based in Portland, OR. He believes that the most impactful and ethical way to tell a story is with people, not about them. His approach always begins with the individuals who want to share their stories and tailoring methods to foster an environment where they can authentically express themselves.
Personal Motivations
Johnathon’s passion for this work is deeply rooted in his identity as a Puerto Rican and Spanish individual. His grandfather moved from Puerto Rico to Detroit during the Cold War-era “don’t speak Spanish” era. Listening to his grandfather’s stories gave him insights into the personal and communal costs of cultural suppression and assimilation.
This understanding inspired him to use his talents as a media creator to drive meaningful change. In 2017-18 he collaborated with Centro Del Pueblo to advocate for—and successfully pass—a sanctuary county ordinance in Humboldt County. This experience set him on a path of pursuing projects that focus on serving underrepresented communities through systemic change.
Selected Works
Mac Smiff expresses enthusiasm for Portland's potential to evolve into a progressive city and the enduring influence this transformation could have. 2024
The CEO (Terry Johnson) gave me a simple task. Take one week and find & the story of this ground breaking program. 2024
Oregon Food Bank Year in Review Video 2024.
Steph Routh for East Portland Ad 1 of 6.
Ad to introduce Shannon Singleton and her opponent.
A 3-minute video about Tiffany Koyama Lane, highlighting her background and personal motivations for running for City Council.
Advocacy video in collaboration with the Wiyot Tibe and Friends of the dunes (2019).
How a woman transformed her most challenging life experiences into a path toward discovering her purpose.
Roseto Films 2025 Filmmaking Showreel