EB-1 Extraordinary Ability USCIS Appeal Review – Producer – MAY232022_01B2203

Date of Decision: May 23, 2022
Service Center: Texas Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability

Petitioner Information

Profession: Producer
Field: Short Films, Commercials, and Music Videos
Nationality: Not Specified

Summary of Decision

Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Dismissed

Evidentiary Criteria Analysis

Criteria Met:

Evidence of the display of the alien’s work in the field at artistic exhibitions or showcases: The petitioner provided evidence that his work as an executive producer for short films was displayed at several international film festivals, including the 2018 [Film Festival].

Evidence of the alien’s participation as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field: The petitioner served as a jury member for the National Association of Advertisers (ANDA) awards in 2011 and 2012, and was invited to serve in 2015.

Evidence that the alien has performed in a leading or critical role for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation: The petitioner was a founding partner and executive producer of a production firm that received several ANDA awards and was recognized as one of the top production companies.

Criteria Not Met:

Evidence of the alien’s receipt of major, internationally recognized awards: The petitioner did not provide evidence of receiving any major, internationally recognized awards.

Published material about the alien in professional or major trade publications or other major media: The petitioner’s submitted evidence did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim.

Evidence of the alien’s original contributions of major significance in the field: The petitioner’s contributions were acknowledged but not shown to elevate his standing to the top of his field.

Authorship of scholarly articles in the field: The petitioner did not provide evidence of authoring scholarly articles.

Evidence that the alien has commanded a high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services: The petitioner’s salary evidence was not supported by a reliable indicator for comparison with others in the field.

Evidence of commercial successes in the performing arts: The petitioner did not provide evidence demonstrating significant commercial successes in the performing arts.

Key Points from the Decision

Awards and Prizes Won:

  • The petitioner’s production company received several ANDA awards between 2012 and 2016.
  • The petitioner’s previous employer received several ANDA awards during his employment there, but documentation was insufficient.

Published Materials About the Petitioner:

  • Articles and media coverage primarily mentioned the petitioner’s company rather than him directly, failing to demonstrate personal acclaim.

Original Contributions of Major Significance:

  • The petitioner’s work on short films and music videos was acknowledged, but it did not establish his standing among the top in his field.

Participation as a Judge:

  • The petitioner’s role as a judge in national awards demonstrates recognition, but not sustained acclaim.

Membership in Associations:

  • Not specifically discussed in the decision.

Authorship of Scholarly Articles:

  • Not applicable in this case.

Leading or Critical Role Performed:

  • The petitioner’s executive role in his production company was recognized but did not show sustained acclaim.

Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases:

  • The petitioner’s short films were showcased at various film festivals, fulfilling one criterion.

Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration:

  • The petitioner’s salary evidence was insufficiently supported and not reliable for comparison.

Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts:

  • Not applicable in this case.

Supporting Documentation

  1. ANDA Awards Certificates: Provided to demonstrate awards won by the petitioner’s company.
  2. Film Festival Participation Certificates: Showcased petitioner’s work screened at various festivals.
  3. Letters from Industry Professionals: Described the petitioner’s role and contributions in various projects.
  4. Salary Statements: Submitted to demonstrate earnings but were not sufficiently supported.

Conclusion

Final Determination: The appeal was dismissed.

Reasoning: The petitioner did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or that he is among the small percentage at the top of his field.

Next Steps: The petitioner needs to address the deficiencies identified in the decision and provide additional evidence if seeking further proceedings.


Download the Full Petition Review Here


Cite as Matter of G-M-, ID# 17286250
Document: MAY232022_01B2203

Izu Okafor
Izu Okafor

Izu Okafor is a filmmaker, project manager, and video editor with a rich background in the film industry. He has refined his craft under the mentorship of industry giants like AMAA VFx Winner Stephen Onaji Onche and AMVCA-winning producer Chris Odeh. Izu is one of 60 participants in the prestigious British Council Film Lab Africa Accelerator Program. His experience spans roles at Sixar Studio, Sozo Films, and Hanuluo Studios, with work on projects like "Wahala" and "Chiugo." He recently produced his debut feature, "Dinobi," which has garnered international festival recognition. Beyond filmmaking, Izu is dedicated to social entrepreneurship and youth empowerment, mentoring future leaders through Uncommon Me International.

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