This Signing Marks Smith’s First Roster Representation in Advertising
London, England (16 July 2024) – Biscuit Filmworks today announced that writer and director William Stefan Smith has signed to the company’s roster for commercial representation in the UK and US. This marks Smith’s first roster representation in advertising, building upon his award-winning work in television and film.
He was awarded a 2023 BAFTA for directing the season four finale of the critically acclaimed series Top Boy on Netflix, returning to direct the penultimate and final episodes of the fifth and final series, earning the show its first BAFTA for Best Drama Series in 2024. Smith most recently was the lead director and executive produced The Vince Staples Show for Netflix, which was renewed for a second season. He previously directed BBW as part of Channel 4’s On The Edge series, which earned him two BAFTA nominations. He served as lead director on the second series of Armando Iannucci’s sci-fi comedy show Avenue 5 for HBO and Sky, having also directed the first series’ final episode. In the advertising realm, Smith helmed a direct-to-brand commercial for Adidas with artist Kano, star of Top Boy. Additionally, he directed the film Two Single Beds, a critically acclaimed short written by and starring Oscar® winner Daniel Kaluuya for Film4.
With a background as a stand-up comedian, Smith is driven by stories that he can champion alongside comedy that is grounded in reality. Blending his South London roots with his love of art house films, he consistently creates something truly distinct.
“William’s skills in working with actors from different backgrounds as well as mastering whichever genre he turns his hand to makes him one of the most exciting directors I have met in a long time,” commented Rupert Reynolds-MacLean, Managing Director at Biscuit Filmworks UK. “The Vince Staples Show and Top Boy are both such engaging and beautifully crafted long form projects. He not only crafts the films perfectly but captures iconic moments in culture that few others have the ability to do. He is also one of the nicest and most collaborative people you will ever meet.”
Smith started his career at the BBC, where he produced for BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, earning a Sony Radio Award for Best Entertainment Show. He was also involved in sourcing new talent and developing comedy TV pilots and viral content for the web in BBC’s New Comedy Department.
Smith earned an MFA in Film Direction from New York University, and he honed his skills alongside the satirist, writer, and director Armando Iannucci. He also received the Hollywood Foreign Press Award for his short Hostess, the BAFTA LA scholarship two years in a row, and the Lora Hays Award for Documentary Editing.
“Will is an accomplished director with exceptional taste,” said Shawn Lacy, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Biscuit Filmworks. “We love his fantastic sense of humor, ease with talent, and confidence on set. We’re truly excited to translate Will’s amazing gifts to the world of advertising.”
“It’s always felt like a great match with Biscuit. I was referred to them by a frequent collaborator of mine a couple of years ago,” said Smith. “Our relationship has grown organically over that time, never feeling forced and always incredibly honest. The fact that their two offices happen to be in the two cities where I spend most of my time felt even more perfect. I can’t wait to dive into projects with them and explore an entirely different area of direction.”
Smith is currently writing his first feature film, a dark comedy, for Film4.