Directing duo Michael O’Connor and Kaine Horey began their cinematic journey not in the exotic Tibetan wilderness, as they would love to have you believe, but on the second floor of a small, slightly run-down studio south of the river in one of the less ‘cool’ parts of East London.

Fuelled by a shared passion for timeless, cinematic storytelling and a mutual drive to push creative boundaries, their collaboration evolved. During a fever-ridden project in China’s Yellow Mountains, Kaine proposed dropping the ‘and’ between their names and the collective Michael-Kaine was born.

The duo has continued to develop their craft, always committed to testing their resourcefulness and creativity. From navigating diverse cultures to enduring adverse conditions across continents, they elevate each script to new heights and stretch the limits of every project. Their adventurous commercial directing embodies a pioneering spirit that brings unprecedented production value to modern advertising.

Michael-Kaine’s expertise lies in fast, efficient filmmaking, crafting impactful stories that resonate with the audience. Though they still haven’t made it to the Tibetan wilderness, they have had the pleasure of working with some of the biggest brands and names in the world, from Rolls Royce and Puma to household names such as Jodie Comer and David Gandy.

Directing duo Animal comprises Screenwriter Romain Choay and Creative Director Benjamin Grillon. Their artistic partnership began around ten years ago in London, where they worked together at an advertising agency. The collaboration leverages their complementary talents-Romain Choay’s narrative expertise and Benjamin Grillon’s refined aesthetic style.

Animal’s distinctive approach begins at the intersection of a story and a visual universe. With a high-concept orientation and a meticulous approach to research, Animal is always looking for a key element in a script–some kind of hook–that sets it apart from the rest. Uncovering this is what allows them to really get creative.

Having mastered the dynamics of collaboration, Animal knows the importance of a strong working relationship between clients and creatives, emphasising the mutual trust required for successful outcomes.

Their passion for storytelling and commitment to delivering a meaningful narrative have seen Animal solidify their position as a creative force in high-end commercials and fashion films, establishing long-term partnerships with prestigious brands such as Hermès and Gucci. Other notable clients include Hugo Boss, Cartier Nanushka, Claudie Pierlot and Valextra.

Director and photographer Patrik Giardino’s early discovery of his artistic expression emerged in his native Malmö, Sweden. A keen athlete in his youth, engaging in karate, ice hockey, and basketball, his passion for the lens reflects his deep-rooted connection with movement and action.

After studying photography at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, Patrik’s progression into directing commercials was a natural one. He uses his understanding of cinematic composition and a keen eye for capturing dynamic moments to translate inspiring visuals into compelling stories. He gets how to seamlessly blend his affinity for sports with powerful imagery, freezing moments in time and unveiling the essence of the subjects he photographs.

Charming and witty in character, working with Patrik always brightens even the most challenging of sets. Whether directing commercials for global brands like Citibank, Nike, Jaguar, Fujitsu, Oakley, P&G, Adidas and Neutrogena or capturing iconic figures and celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Michael Phelps, Patrik’s work reflects a harmonious blend of athleticism and action.

Director Harry Guest started off as a script developer, working with renowned studios in London such as Heyday Films, Number, and Revolution. This laid the groundwork for his distinctive stylised film aesthetic and marked the beginning of his award-winning career.

Harry has a knack for creating narratives that resonate with audiences. His sharp pacing gives a nod to the powerful characters he encountered growing up in London. Drawn to the funny, ridiculous and irreverent aspects of life, he’s not interested in how his films make you feel–good, bad, sad, mad, whatever–as long as you feel something.

Directing notable commercials, fashion films and social content for brands including Contiki Travel, Puttshack Golf, Ballantines Whiskey, Amazon, BBC and London Fashion Week, his work goes beyond the commercial realm. Harry’s theatrical short films, Ocean Brew and Wreckless Abandon, made waves in the film and festival circuits and projects like the TV Pilot, The Great Library, a car advert for Ora Funky Cat and music videos for Krept and Konan ft. Popcaan showcase his versatility.

Award-winning Director Martin began his creative path as a Fine Art student in Leeds, cultivating a strong foundation in visual aesthetics and storytelling. His journey into film started in Manchester at Granada TV, where his fascination with the cinematic world grew.
Martin consistently shows passion in his work, striving for aesthetic beauty and a strong cinematic style in everything he throws himself at. He aims to get it right and do justice to the imagery that has influenced him over the years, whether that’s waiting for the perfect light on location or coaxing the best out of a performance.

Martin has built an impressive portfolio, collaborating with leading ad agencies and brands like BMW, Volvo, Ferrari, Ford, Puma, and Armani. His work spans commercials, film and TV title sequences, music videos, and social documentaries. Beyond commercial success, Martin takes pride in creating impactful films for respected charities, addressing pressing social issues such as drug addiction, AIDS, and homelessness.

Now based in London but working globally, Martin has developed a robust network across Europe, the USA, and China. With every project, he continues to push his own creative boundaries, delivering unforgettable, visually striking content that masterfully combines traditional cinematography with cutting-edge VFX.