About Us


Handshake Away Productions

Our Company Handshake Away Productions is a Los Angeles based production company specializing in Independent Film, Documentaries, Reality, Television, and Family Entertainment.  HSAP is under the direction of producing partners Colette Joel and David Key with over thirty years experience within the entertainment industry.  HSAP is a leading independent production company ensuring exceptional entertainment for a variety of audiences.

Colette Joel


Colette Joel is CEO, Executive Producer, and Owner of Handshake Away Productions.  She has held this position since 2005.  Her responsibilities include all feature film, independent film, and television development, and all production activities.  Her diverse background within the entertainment industry includes producing, writing, acting, casting and motion picture / FX makeup.  She understands and appreciates the value of the entire crew’s involvement on a production from concept to completion.

Colette has worked with, and learned from, some of the best directors, actors, and producers in the business.  Her passion for the entertainment industry was ignited upon her first foray into acting.  Since that defining moment, she has brought forth an exceptional work ethic, well-defined values, and an unyielding dedication that resonates with her colleagues, who refer to her as a consummate professional.

With unbridled enthusiasm and determination, Colette is focused on the details, while holding true to the integrity of a project, and always considers new ideas and concepts.  She understands that unforeseen production challenges may arise, and when they do she handles the challenges with professionalism and grace. Two of Colette’s favorite sayings are – “Where there’s a will, there’s a way” and “Visualize, Believe, and Achieve”.

Colette’s primary objectives are to bring exceptional entertainment to a variety of audiences, and bringing family back to the forefront.

“We are what we repeatedly do; therefore, Excellence is not an act, but a habit.” ~~~ Aristotle



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