Chicago film community mourns loss of Andrew Biesen

Andrew Biesen

It is always difficult to hear of a fellow filmmaker passing, especially someone as wonderful and influential as Andrew Beisen. Those who knew him best say that Andrew was talented, kind, ambitious, and empathetic in every way possible.  He was always optimistic, and a great problem solver, the type of person who would lend a hand to anyone in need.

Born and raised in Northwest Indiana, Andrew Beisen had been passionate about movies and acting since he was a child.  At age four, he realized he wanted to be an actor when he picked up his dad’s old Hi-8 camera and started yelling nonsense into the lens.  At 18, Beisen got his headshot, built his resume, and found representation with the emotional support of his family. 

Eventually realizing his talents were best utilized behind the camera, he started his film career by attending Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy.   Andrew was also the  founder and owner of Chicago Production Resource Group, and owner of Chicago Call Sheet.

He considered himself a jack-of-all-trades until he met his boss and mentor, Vince Chavez, at Elkhorn Entertainment. Between Andrew’s schooling, and the experience he gained with Vince, he was able to bring his skills to a new career in Reality Television. 

Recently, Beisen worked as a freelance Producer for such reality shows as Married At First Sight and Trail To SEMA. In 2018, Beisen became a managing partner for Light Modifiers Rental, helping with payroll, general bookkeeping, and launching new media marketing campaigns for the local Chicago company. 

Andrew’s many dear friends took solace on social media. 

“Rest In Peace, Andrew Beisen… My God, I can’t believe you of all people. You have accomplished more than so many of your peers, and you were barely 30.”  Mary Munez 

Light Modifiers Official Statement: 

In Memory of: Andrew Ryan Biesen
It’s with deep sadness that we share the news that last week we’ve lost one of our own: our great friend, Andrew. Andrew Biesen was an accomplished producer, entrepreneur, and integral partner of our team helping us develop our buisness and giving Light Modifiers Rental a chance to grow into the rental house we are today. Andrew always made himself available, and did so much to improve Chicago’s film community. He made it a point to always help young filmmakers and to give anyone an opportunity to get their foot in the door of the industry. We know that we’re not alone in the feeling that we’ve lost someone very special. Andrew wasn’t just our business partner, he was part of our family. He will be missed always, and remembered. 


From Andrew’s family:

Andrew loved vacationing with family and friends, swimming, bike riding, taking long walks, and spending time with his friends. He was a very loving, caring, generous, and kind young man. He was always willing to help anyone in need. Andrew touched the hearts of many people and will be greatly missed. We couldn’t have asked for a more loving son and brother. 

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Rd. (one block south of Ridge Road) Highland, IN from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Thursday September 17, 2020 at 9:30 am. Burial to follow at Memory Lane, Pastor Dave Adams officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please say a prayer.