Ex-agency creative, Matt Smukler is the heartfelt content expert. His ability to combine storytelling and natural performances with an effortless sense of humour, has won him jobs for household names like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Oreo, and Reebok.

His short film, The Hiccup, also earned him Best Comedy Short Film at the San Diego International Film Festival and finalist positions at Woodstock International Film Festival and Soho Rushes Short Film Festival.

Robber’s Dog has found just what it wanted.

Smukler, too.  “I was looking to join a company that was small and nimble, yet still focused on doing amazing work. Robber’s Dog seemed to be just that. Their hands-on mentality and spirit of working closely together with directors really chimed with my ideals,” he commented.

“Up until now, I’ve been mainly focused on the US market, so this signing is a great opportunity to expand my reach. I’m looking forward to an exciting year.”

Smukler began his career as an art director before he discovered he had a flair for copywriting. He then worked at some of the best advertising agencies in the US, including a five-year stint at Goodby Silverstein & Partners.

Matt Smukler

“Having agency experience has definitely given me an advantage in terms of understanding the entire commercial production process. I look at a film from its conception. I consider everything from selling the idea through to the client, to collaborating with everyone and ultimately bringing the concept to life.  I know how hard this can be, so I am always in awe when a great idea runs the gauntlet,” Smukler commented.

He left GS&P to direct full time in 2003, That transition has been rewarded with awards at One Show, D&AD and Creative Arts. Smukler was recently nominated for best director at the 2016 AICP awards for his award winning commercial, Duck, for Iams.

“I like to have fun. I try and create an environment where everyone is laughing and feels comfortable and okay with failing. To get those real authentic-feeling performances it’s so important to have a relaxed atmosphere that allows people to feel comfortable experimenting and often times making mistakes. With kids, I tend to cover the performances in a way that can feel spontaneous and free. If I’m having fun and am relaxed I find that it can be infectious,” he stated.

Smukler is the director behind Cheerios’ Gracie and Deutsche Bahn’s Fan, that helped adland break through the barriers of presenting interracial and gay couples.  

“I love clients are who bold and willing to take chances. It’s so hard these days to break through the clutter. When something comes along that is honest and true and relevant I’m going to do my very best to not fuck it up!”

Smukler is about to lock picture on his latest feature, I Don’t Cry. The film is a documentary about 18-year-old track and field star from Henderson, Nevada, grappling with the usual task of raising her mentally disabled parents.

“After learning of the family’s situation, I was compelled to find out more,” Smukler explained.

“Her situation was so profoundly moving that I wanted to use this film as an opportunity to help further her education. She is an honour student but has very little time to focus on the college application process nor the funds necessary to pay for a four year university. I’m hoping this film will serve as a contribution to her college application essay.

“Up until now, I’ve been mainly focused on the US market,” adds Matt, “so this signing is a great opportunity to expand my reach.”

Matt is also represented by Community Films in USA and Sonny London in the UK.

View Matt Smukler’s portfolio here.