Dean Charles

I’m Dean Charles, a BAFTA Connect member and filmmaker passionate about creating stories that blend relatable, thought-provoking lessons with rich, immersive experiences. My work is driven by a love for exploring human behaviour, relationships, and powerful drama, often using theatrical staging, precise blocking, and visual storytelling to connect with audiences. I thrive across genres, always aiming to craft narratives that resonate deeply. My directing credits include serving as a second unit director on the BBC/A24 series Dreaming Whilst Black, and I’m currently mentored by Mo Ali, the visionary behind Hijack (starring Idris Elba) and Cobra (starring Robert Carlyle). My short film The Mistress earned recognition as a finalist at the WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival and a semi-finalist at Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival, an Oscar-qualifying event. My debut feature, Hard Time Bus, won Best Feature at the Hollywood Black Film Festival and was named a “Festival Highlight” by the LA Times. It also received multiple nominations at the American Black Film Festival, including Best Director and Best Feature Film. I’m constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling, using cinema to inspire audiences and connect them with universal truths. My goal is to create work that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact.