I come from a small village in the middle of England where Hollywood and movie-making seemed like a galaxy far away. I wasn’t raised around creative types, so I was never exposed to the world of storytelling. When I was 15, I saw “The Shawshank Redemption” and was changed in a profound way. The story opened my eyes to many things; suffering, criminal injustice, survival, and ultimately the triumph of a genuine human connection. That is when my journey into filmmaking began. I had to tell stories, and my ultimate goal was to be someday a part of a film or series that moved someone as I was. I wrote short stories, got a camcorder, and began to create as much as I could.
When I was 18, and about to attend university, I was strongly urged by my family to complete a dependable degree in business studies. I knew this wasn’t my calling but felt torn between pursuing the life expected of me and the life I knew I wanted. That is when a movie changed me again. I saw “American History X.” As the end credits rolled, I couldn’t move. I sat there knowing without a shadow of a doubt that I had to be a storyteller. I had to strive to be part of a process that could open people’s eyes and positively affect them the way I was profoundly and positively affected.
It was then that I found my way to film school in the USA. I devoured every class and attended any additional class that would let me sit in and learn. After completing film school, I made my way to Los Angeles.
My perspective is one that regards storytelling and filmmaking as a vital and effective way to share and connect in the human experience. To momentarily give someone a glimpse into another world that they wouldn’t have been exposed to otherwise. To move someone towards more empathy and less hate, to inspire, to educate, or simply provide an hour or two of entertainment to someone who needs a break from their everyday life.
I also believe that in order to be a good storyteller, you have to live and experience life truly. On my journey, I have dealt with great losses and great joys. I have traveled, fought for human rights, started a post-production company, and became a husband and father.
I am inspired by innovation and have experimented with new ways to tell interactive stories with the use of augmented and virtual reality. Having this knowledge of VFX and post has allowed me to play key roles in the creative process. I know every angle of what can and needs to be done in post. I know how to get the shot that will drive the story, and I know that collaboration is key.
15 years of production, post-production, and VFX experience and founder of Chariotdrive, a creative studio responsible for the end-to-end production in film, television, new media, and commercials. In 2020 Chariotdrive was acquired, and I expanded operations into Canada.
After that, I moved back to Los Angeles, and I am currently working as Head of Post Production at the visionary creative studio Mirada, a part of the Trailer Park Group.
P.S. A few years ago, I created “The Freeman Chronicles” series based on one of the greatest video game characters of all time. Check out its 93% rating on Steam.
If you are interested in working with me please give me a call or find me on telegram.