Van Elder is a native of Compton, California. Issues is the fourth film from Director Van Elder and serves as his feature film debut. Additionally, he served as writer, producer, and editor on Issues. He has previously directed three award winning short films; Sigmund the See Monster (2002), Out-of-Body Experience (2004), and A Tale of Two Sisters (2004). Elder holds a Master’s degree in Film & Television and has authored numerous screenplays that he plans to develop.

Elder’s professional career has seen him work in various facets of the media and entertainment industries. It wasn’t until he was working in advertising for a high profile media company and attending law school at night that he had finally decided to fulfill his dream of becoming a director. He would soon take a leave of absence from law school and set his course for pursuing his ultimate goal. Since then, he has never looked back. Van plans on becoming a permanent fixture in the film industry and his preceding work is a good indication of his potential.