Biography
James Cleave is an award-winning Writer-Director and a member of Directors UK, known for his love of thought-provoking storytelling, and on-set collaboration with both cast and crew alike. Born in the UK and raised in Cyprus, his global perspective as a third-culture kid shapes his cinematic vision. With over 15 years’ industry experience, he has worked on over 70 film, television, music promo, and commercial productions for major studios, including the BBC, Disney, 20th Century, BFI, and Pathé, in various capacities within the Assistant Director department. Alongside this, he has produced more than 75 corporate and non-broadcast projects, earning 24 international awards for this work.
As a filmmaker, James’ work has been widely recognised on the festival circuit. His debut short, Sometime Else, received 16 awards and 24 nominations, and was selected at 11 national and international film festivals, including BAFTA Cymru-qualifying Carmarthen Bay Film Festival and Kevin Smith’s SModcastle Film Festival, to name a few. His latest comedy-drama, MAFIA, continues to gain momentum with multiple accolades, including two wins (Audience Choice Award & Best Cinematography), five nominations, and thirteen festival selections, including BIFA-qualifying TweetFest and Soho London Independent Film Festival, to date.
With a strong track record in both commercial and independent filmmaking both as director and crewmember, James is dedicated to crafting bold, technical, and character-driven stories that resonate with global audiences.
