The People Behind the Work
Our Team
A small, dedicated group of filmmakers, producers, and local experts united by a single purpose — telling Africa's stories with honesty, craft, and respect.
Built for the Field
Tanzania Films operates with a lean, experienced core team and a network of trusted local partners. Every member of our crew has been chosen for their expertise, their commitment to authentic storytelling, and their deep connection to the places we film.
Director, Producer, writer & cinematographer
Marlin Darrah
Called "The World's Most Traveled Filmmaker" and with over 45 years behind the camera, Marlin Darrah is one of the most experienced adventure filmmakers working today. His work has taken him to more than 140 countries, earning dozens of international awards and critical acclaim across feature films, travel-adventure series, and documentaries. For his 40+ years of film production around the globe, Darrah was honored with a Knighthood in the Royal House of Portugal, by that country's hereditary king. Darrah's movies and documentaries have been viewed by more than 100 million people throughout the world, generating more than $10 million in sales revenue. "Lost Safari" is his next feature film -- based on a story he's been developing for over a decade.
40+ years · 140+ countries · Multi-award winner
Producer & writer
Lin Zuo
Lin Zuo brings deep expertise in international co-production, financing, and distribution to Tanzania Films. With a background spanning both Hollywood and Asian markets, she has been instrumental in securing the partnerships and resources that made many of our ambitious location-based productions possible. Coordinating with Excellent Guides & Safaris, she will oversee many of the strategic and financial aspects of Lost Safari. Lin is also an award-winning documentary producer, with more than a decade of experience in dozens of countries.
International co-production · Finance & distribution
associate producer & location management
Ryan Skaife
Ryan Skaife is a passionate filmmaker specializing in the cultures and geography of Tanzania. For more than 20 years Ryan has been deeply involved with a variety of Tanzanian themes ranging from humanitarian projects, cultural exchanges, travel co-ordinator, sports events and films . He is also the United States travel and tour representative for the renown Tanzanian safari company, Excellent Guides & Safaris. His lifelong love of Tanzania and its people has made him an essential collaborator on Tanzania Films projects. For Lost Safari, he will be working closely with Excellent Guides & Safaris, coordinating the filming entirely on location across Tanzania's most beautiful and challenging environments.
Remote & extreme-environment production · passionately devoted to promoting Tanzania and its people.
Tanzania Production Coordinator
Dearson Godson
Born and raised in Tanzania, Dearson Godson is the essential bridge between Tanzania Films and the country's communities, authorities, and landscapes. He owns and operates Excellent Guides & Safaris, (based in Arusha, TZ) and manages all in-country logistics, permits, and local crew relationships — ensuring every production runs smoothly and respectfully within the communities it touches.
In-country logistics · Permits & community relations
Production Partners
On the Ground in Tanzania
Lost Safari is made possible through close partnerships with organisations that are experts in their knowledge of and their experience with Tanzania's landscapes, wildlife, and communities.
Field Operations Partner
Excellent Guides & Safaris
Tanzania's premier safari operator, providing expert field guides, vehicles, and logistical support across Tanzania's Northern and Southern Circuits, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tanrangire and Lake Natron. Their deep knowledge of Tanzania's vast terrain and wildlife is indispensable to safe and authentic filming.
Official Government Partner
Tanzania Tourist Board
Tanzania Films works in close collaboration with the Tanzania Tourist Board, ensuring all productions meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility, community benefit, and cultural respect. Their support opens doors across the country's national parks and protected areas.
Lost Safari · 2026–27
Join the Production
We are actively seeking co-producers, location partners, and crew for Lost Safari. If you have expertise relevant to filming in East Africa, we want to hear from you.