Guy Shelmerdine

Guy Shelmerdine is known for his distinctive flavour of comedy, nuanced performances and a singular visual style. After winning Best New Director at Cannes, he joined SMUGGLER and has since crafted a body of work that showcases his range as a filmmaker, marrying sophisticated humour and storytelling with technical craft.

With his sharp wit, skill for art direction, narrative precision and world-building, Shelmerdine consistently delivers award-winning work for the world’s top brands and agencies. His Starburst “Vertical” campaign with DDB won a Cannes Lion, along with a D&AD Pencil and four Golds at The One Show. The relatable and often referenced “Big Day” for Weetabix earned a Cannes Lion and two Golds at the Clios. His timeless film for Hertz with adam&eveDDB netted accolades from the British Arrows, ANDY, Epica and London International Awards, among others.

Shelmerdine directed the launch campaign for UberEats, beginning with an iconic face-off between Star Wars and Star Trek legends Patrick Stewart and Mark Hamill, followed by a film with Elton John and Lil Nas X and a Super Bowl homage to Wayne’s World. The work became a cultural touchstone through his precise comedic timing, cinematic scale and deft handling of A-list ensembles. That same touch extends to his work for SiriusXM, where he directed Kevin Hart, Dave Grohl and LL Cool J in a series of spots with pitch-perfect performances that each feel part of a cohesive whole.

Other notable work includes Shelmerdine’s subversive reimagining of the classic ’80s soda commercial “Introducing Stiller’s Soda” starring Ben Stiller. In “Thoughtful” for Google he grounds absurdity in a relatable world with Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, while his Marmite film features mischievous puppets guiding the next generation through their “first time.” Each spot received critical and popular acclaim for its playful yet edgy tone, showcasing his ability to effortlessly transition between comedic genres and filmmaking styles.

Across every project, Shelmerdine pushes at the edges of traditional comedic dialogue, blending sharp pacing with thoughtful casting and design to craft a distinct, engaging style. He’s a creative problem solver and natural leader who builds immersive worlds, imbuing each film with his unmistakable vision.