Chris Smith

Wisconsin-born director Chris Smith is known for independent films that reveal some of the more curious aspects of the “American dream”. Wry, empathetic, and wise, Smith’s films occupy a special niche in contemporary cinema. The iconic American Movie follows an irrepressible young director cobbling together a regional horror film. It won the Sundance Documentary Competition. His debut narrative feature The Pool won the Audience Award at Sundance and gained glowing reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film’s New York premiere was accompanied by a MoMA retrospective of Smith’s other feature work titled Chris Smith: American Original. 

Smith has made a lasting impression on the advertising world as well. With an expert eye for casting and a careful, precise production aesthetic, Smith’s commercial campaigns have garnered him equal acclaim. He has directed for brands like AT&T, FedEx, ESPN, Sprint, Truth, Geico, PlayStation, AIG, Verizon, T-Mobile, and BMW.  His work for Cingular Wireless and Geico earned him multiple Cannes Lions.

Most recently, Smith directed and produced a run of blockbuster documentary feature films and series for Netflix. His latest documentary miniseries, Mr. McMahon, masterfully delves into the influential yet controversial career of Vince McMahon, exploring his impact on the wrestling industry and beyond. His Wham! documentary seamlessly blends pop nostalgia with an exploration of George Michael’s ambition and legacy. Smith also recently directed DEVO, chronicling the rise of the pioneering 1970s new wave rock band, and Sr., a deeply personal documentary about the intertwined careers and relationship between Robert Downey Jr. and his father, Robert Downey Sr. Additionally, Smith’s Branson docuseries for HBO offered an intimate look at the life of businessman Richard Branson, culminating in his historic space flight.

Smith’s other notable work includes Fyre: The Greatest Party that Never Happened, a documentary about the disastrous Fyre Festival and its aftermath. The film entered the pop culture zeitgeist upon its release breaking non-fiction streaming records. His docu-series Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness took the world by storm and was the most streamed series on Netflix, breaking his own record. Additionally, his docu-series 100 Foot Wave takes a look at the decade-long odyssey of big-wave pioneer Garrett McNamara to conquer the 100-foot wave and was renewed for a second season on HBO.  Smith also directed Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond, a documentary detailing Jim Carrey’s transformation into the role of Andy Kaufman for Man on the Moon. The film received critical acclaim, earning first prize at the Detroit Film Critics Society and nominations at the Emmys and the Venice Film Festival.