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Zhang + Knight join Academy Films for US representation
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The London-based directing duo expands their relationship with the production company for commercial and music video work in the States.
Having already been signed to Academy Films in the UK, directing duo Zhang + Knight have now joined the company’s US roster for commercial and music video representation.
Based in London, Zhang + Knight are known for their visually rich, cinematic work, often characterised by painterly compositions, textured environments and stylised use of light and colour. Their recent short A Bear Remembers won Best Drama at Aspen Shortfest and Best European Film at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
They have previously directed campaigns for brands including Mercedes, Hawaiian Airlines and Maserati, and were named Young Guns winners in 2023. Their commercial work for Stonewall earned a British Arrow for Achievement in Production.
“We feel very lucky to already call Academy our home in the UK. Together, we’ve made work we’re truly proud of - spanning commercials, music videos, and fiction projects,” Zhang + Knight said. “So stepping into this new chapter with Academy in the US feels incredibly special: a chance to keep creating, growing, and being challenged by a company we already know and love. It’s amazing to see what John and the US team have built in such a short space of time, and we’re thrilled to now be part of that momentum. We can’t wait to see where this takes us, and what we’ll make together!”
John Nguyen, Managing Director at Academy US, added: “From the moment I started at Academy, I've been in love with Zhang + Knight. They are incredible storytellers that have an impeccable eye for unique world building. As we continue to build our next phase of the business, Zhang + Knight are exactly the kind of artists we want leading the way.”
Medb Riordan, Global Managing Partner, said: “Zhang + Knight have been an integral part of our UK family for over three years, during which time they've created a beautiful body of work spanning award-winning music videos, commercials and short films. Their vision is singular — poetic, cinematic and emotionally rich — and they've built a world that feels entirely their own. As storytellers and image-makers, they stand among the most distinctive and unforgettable directors of the moment.”
“We're thrilled to now call them part of our US family as well, and it's already clear they're poised to thrive here too,” Riordan continued. “With the support of our brilliant MD, John, and the creative infrastructure around them, there's no limit to what they’ll accomplish next. We’re incredibly proud to champion them on both sides of the Atlantic.”
