Photoplay is thrilled to announce the signing of internationally renowned director, Lance Kelleher. Kelleher returns to Australia from time spent living and working in the United States and across Europe.

Returning to Sydney for family, Kelleher is excited to devote more time to the local production industry. He joins Photoplay for representation in Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

Now known for creating work that is epic in scope but always intimate in detail, Kelleher found his start in New Zealand as a news and documentary editor and filmmaker. He then began directing music videos that lead him first to Sydney and then on to London. This early training has continued to inform his work as a visual storyteller.

His move into advertising now spans a 30-year career that has seen Kelleher direct commercials on every continent. His most recent work includes projects for Herbalife (USA/global), IKEA (Europe), Nationwide Insurance (USA), Jim Beam (Global), VW (China) and Rexona (Australia).

With a talent for dramatic visuals, VFX post, and in-camera stunts, Kelleher has created an impactful legacy. His portfolio includes campaigns for Jaguar, Canon, Renault Global, Lexus, Jim Beam, Qantas, Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, IKEA, BMW, Heineken, Sony and Samsung. Kelleher is the director behind the multi-award winning TAC ‘The Ride’ commercial (Australia). Over the years, he has accrued creative awards at major international shows such as Cannes, D&AD, One Show, Clios and New York Festivals.

“It’s been great to get to know Lance over many catch-ups and beers, he’s a truly passionate filmmaker driven to make his work truly stand out,” Photoplay executive producer Oliver Lawrance said.

“The production landscape is changing at a rapid pace and Lance is someone who has truly embraced the filmmaking challenges this entails. I’m excited to have Lance back in Sydney and available for local projects.”

Commenting on his signing, Kelleher said: “Meeting Oli and the team at Photoplay, I was immediately drawn to their talent and ethos. As a collective of creative people, I have great respect for their work and for the wonderful relationships they have built up in Australia and further afield. I’m really happy to have found a home in Photoplay and look forward to working with our country’s finest agencies.”

Having secured the film rights to Tim Bowden’s bestselling novel One Crowded Hour, Kelleher will co-produce alongside Todd Fellman and Sylvia Wilczynski with writer-director Kim Mordaunt and with assistance from Screen Australia. One Crowded Hour follows Australian combat photojournalist and cameraman Neil Davis who documented areas of extreme conflict in South East Asia for over 20 years.

To view Lance Kelleher’s director reel click here