Rhys Chapman(II)
- Director
- Writer
- Producer
Rhys Chapman is a critically acclaimed writer, director, and producer whose work is celebrated for tackling pressing social issues with authenticity and emotional depth. From his breakout project Wonderkid (2016), which addressed homophobia in professional football with support from figures like Sir Ian McKellen and Stephen Fry, to his Oscar-qualified short Ryan Can't Read (2024), lauded by Ken Loach as "touching" and "important," Chapman's films provoke thought and inspire action. Developing his first feature film, The Fens, Chapman continues to establish himself as a bold and impactful voice in contemporary cinema.
Chapman's breakout project, Wonderkid, was backed by major organizations such as Adidas, the Premier League, and Sky Sports, and premiered at the Raindance Film Festival before being broadcast on Sky Sports and Sky Cinema across Europe. With over 7 million views online, the film has left an indelible mark, prompting over 100 screenings within football communities, including in Russia. The film also played a key role in encouraging major stakeholders in football to support Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign, fostering greater inclusivity and acceptance within the sport.
His most recent short film, Ryan Can't Read, which won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Live Action Short at the Edmonton International Film Festival, has been showcased at numerous Oscar and BAFTA qualifying festivals. Its recognition at Edmonton qualified it for consideration at the 97th Academy Awards. Praised by veteran filmmaker Ken Loach for its heartfelt storytelling, the film reinforces Chapman's reputation as a filmmaker who uses his craft to shine a light on underrepresented voices and important issues.
Chapman's upcoming feature, The Fens, takes on the critical issue of suicide, reflecting his ongoing commitment to telling challenging, deeply personal stories. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to authenticity, he is collaborating with top-tier talent to bring this vision to life.
With a growing body of work that entertains, inspires, and provokes meaningful dialogue, Chapman's contributions to contemporary cinema continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Chapman's breakout project, Wonderkid, was backed by major organizations such as Adidas, the Premier League, and Sky Sports, and premiered at the Raindance Film Festival before being broadcast on Sky Sports and Sky Cinema across Europe. With over 7 million views online, the film has left an indelible mark, prompting over 100 screenings within football communities, including in Russia. The film also played a key role in encouraging major stakeholders in football to support Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign, fostering greater inclusivity and acceptance within the sport.
His most recent short film, Ryan Can't Read, which won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Live Action Short at the Edmonton International Film Festival, has been showcased at numerous Oscar and BAFTA qualifying festivals. Its recognition at Edmonton qualified it for consideration at the 97th Academy Awards. Praised by veteran filmmaker Ken Loach for its heartfelt storytelling, the film reinforces Chapman's reputation as a filmmaker who uses his craft to shine a light on underrepresented voices and important issues.
Chapman's upcoming feature, The Fens, takes on the critical issue of suicide, reflecting his ongoing commitment to telling challenging, deeply personal stories. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to authenticity, he is collaborating with top-tier talent to bring this vision to life.
With a growing body of work that entertains, inspires, and provokes meaningful dialogue, Chapman's contributions to contemporary cinema continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
