USEFUL is a full service production company in Auckland, founded by award-winning Director & Executive Producer James (Jimmy) Barr.

With more than two decades of experience across commercials, television, music videos and branded storytelling, as the founder of Useful Films, Jimmy combines hands-on production expertise with a strong visual and performance-driven directing style.

Coming from a background in lighting and VFX, he has a deep understanding of the filmmaking process from concept through to final delivery, allowing him to lead projects with both creative clarity and practical precision.

His work spans performance, comedy, food, automotive, lifestyle, kids, animals and large-scale technical shoots, with a reputation for calm problem-solving and delivering ambitious work efficiently.

Jimmy directed 12 episodes of Power Rangers Megaforce across seasons 20 and 21, one of the world’s most widely distributed children’s television franchises, reaching audiences of more than 65 million globally.

His debut short film, Koro’s Medal, funded by the New Zealand Film Commission, screened internationally and won Best Short Film at Canada’s Dreamspeakers Film Festival following premieres at Edinburgh International Film Festival and Chicago International Children’s Film Festival. The film is studied as coursework for New Zealand students, NCEA year 12 English (Drama).

Today, James leads Useful Films as both Executive Producer and Director, overseeing projects from development through production while continuing to direct commercial and narrative work.