
Luke Shelley
Directing
Biography
Born and raised in London, director Luke loves working in the genre space, something he began to explore while studying at Ravensbourne University. His films include the award-winning western "Fear the Unknown Men", micro sci-fi "Postponed" and surrealist drama "What We Wished We Could Be". Using short-form narrative pieces and music videos to explore storytelling and test subversive methods, Luke has the distinct ability to work within and subvert genre but also tells deep character-driven stories that really get to the heart of what is to be being human, warts and all. Luke's work has been described as "engrossing... worth your time and attention" - UK Film Review (Dropkick) , "fantastically paced and consistent... tremendous aesthetic and atmosphere throughout" - Battle Royal with Cheese (Dropkick), "brings to mind the golden days of Hollywood film" - One Film Fan (Fear the Unknown Men), "a tense and confronting watch" - Directors Notes (What We Wished We Could Be) and "reminds you why cinema is such a great medium... sticks with you days after you have watched it" - A Daily Crow (What We Wished We Could Be). He is represented by the Academy Award-winning production company Slick Films as a commercial and music promos director under their Talent roster. Luke's latest film, "What We Wished We Could Be", is a drama with a surrealist edge that delves into the complications and sacrifices faced by a couple affected by the contaminated blood scandal. The film had its world premiere at the Oscar and BAFTA-qualifying Rhode Island International Film Festival, followed by its West Coast Premiere at the equally prestigious HollyShorts Film Festival in August 2024. The film returns to the UK in November for the BAFTA and BIFA qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festival.
Known For

A coming-of-age short film about a young boy who believes dressing up to the nines will keep his mum with him forever.
Dressed To The Nines

Struggling screenwriter Matt tries to get his first film made with no help from his annoying imaginary friend Max Justice, a super spy he created when he was a child.
Max Justice: The Web Series

A troubled sheriff must confront his demons in the form of a notorious gang with the help of a mysterious stranger, determined to collect the wanted men's bounty. But will the sheriff be able to rise up and put his past behind him?
Fear the Unknown Men

Set in an alternate Cold War America, President Keates and the First Lady are secured deep below ground after retaliatory action.
Dropkick

A couple affected by the contaminated blood scandal face a difficult decision when an offer of life-saving treatment threatens their dreams for the future.
What We Wished We Could Be
When an 11-year-old with undiagnosed dyslexia is unable to finish his exam, he embarks on an adventure that will change how he and those around him see difference forever.
The Act of Learning

Advertising exec confronts an unknown presence during a work-from-home client call.