Joel worked for Paramount Pictures for three years, initially as executive assistant to John Goldwyn, President of the Motion Picture Group, then later promoted to Director of Creative Affairs. In September 2000, Joel joined Energy Entertainment as a literary manager, where he oversaw the creative development of all the company’s client material. He left Energy in 2001 to direct the feature film Heaven’s Pond, released by Artisan Entertainment in 2003. Joel also produced two music videos for Los Angeles recording artist Brooke Ramel, the short films Socket Wrench and Willowbee (starring Amy Smart), and eleven commercials for MoveOn.Org’s Bush in 30 Seconds competition, including finalist Al Keyda. He is currently producing Conventioneers for director Mora Stephens.