Oz Thakkar
Photographer
KIN (2023)
Embark on a gripping journey through a scorched dystopian future where a mother and her baby navigate the harsh terrain, fighting for survival. Written and directed by James Waterhouse, this compelling narrative comes to life through the creative production of Oz Thakkar in collaboration with Crooked House Films. Join us in this captivating story starring Lauren Okadigbo.
Open Mic | Channel 4
Take a nostalgic journey to the roots of grime with Dizzee Rascal, Lethal B, and Kano, unleashing powerful bars in Ewen Spencer’s eagerly awaited grime documentary. Produced by Oz Thakkar and commissioned by Dazed for Channel 4 broadcast.
 
Film Credits:
  • Director: Ewen Spencer
  • Producer: Oz Thakkar
  • Executive Producer: Olivia Gideon Thomson
  • Production Company: We Folk
Driving My Life | Uber
Discover the essence of our film – a testament to the profound connection Uber drivers have with the empowering freedom and flexibility the platform provides. We aimed to showcase Uber as not just an employer, but a source of loyalty, offering numerous benefits and unparalleled flexibility.

Through the lens of Adeyinka’s story, we invite you to feel the warmth and empathy that comes with understanding the challenges he faces – balancing work, family, obligations, and personal passions. The film is a journey that resonates with the audience, evoking satisfaction and positivity as they witness how Uber enables Adeyinka to navigate his complex life.

This cinematic piece played a pivotal role in the social media campaign “Driving My Life,” a collaboration between Uber and the Times, directed by James Waterhouse, co-directed by Oz Thakkar, and proudly produced by Crooked House Films.
Hair Story | A Love Letter to Black Hair
“Hair Story,” a heartfelt tribute to Black hair, unfolds as a celebration of its beauty and power, exclusively premiering on Dazed. Crafted by the collaborative brilliance of multi-disciplinary artist Darkwah Kyei-Darkwah, director-producer Oz Thakkar, and music producer-artist Teddy Jackson – made possible by Pinterest. In this film, nine distinct guests authentically share their personal stories and experiences, paying homage to the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of afro hair.
Street, Sound & Style | Channel 4
Embark on a captivating exploration with “Street Sound and Style,” a four-part documentary series delving into the transformative impact of music and street style subcultures on pop culture. Leveraging i-D’s distinctive position at the forefront of British style culture, this series offers an authentic and authoritative retrospective.
 
Key Credits:
  • Directed by: Ewen Spencer
  • Written by: Clive Martin
  • Produced by: Oz Thakkar
  • Director of Photography: Robin Horn
  • Executive Producers: Olivia Gideon Thompson & Ravi Amaratunga
  • Series Producer: Oz Thakkar
 
Witness the evolution that shaped pop culture, brought to life by a dynamic team of entusiasts.
Jam & Cheese | Short Doc
Dive into the vibrant world of quad skaters as they conquer the streets, shopping malls, and the last roller rinks of London in this captivating film. For an in-depth look, explore the full interview with director Ewen Spencer at dazd.co/jamcheese.
 
Key Credits:
  • Director: Ewen Spencer
  • Producer: Oz Thakkar
  • Director of Photography: Robin Horn
  • Editor: Tom Laws Brown
  • Music: Shaun Savage
  • Camera Assistants: Filippo Maso & Pau Munoz
  • Steadicam Operator: Matt Stacey
Executive Producer: Olivia Gideon Thomson
Commissioned by: Jenn Byrne
Production Company: WeFolk
 
Uncover the energy and rhythm of this unique roller-skating experience brought to life by a talented team of creators.
Senna | Working Title

Indulge in the world of Formula One through my lens as a devoted fan, finding immense fulfillment in my contributions to SENNA. During my tenure at Working Title Films, I had the privilege of actively participating in the film’s evolution, from a 10-hour+ edit to its final form, offering valuable insights to the producer throughout the editing process.

SENNA, a captivating documentary, narrates the extraordinary journey of Ayrton Senna. It intricately unfolds the narrative of his physical and spiritual triumphs on and off the track, capturing his pursuit of perfection and the legendary status he holds. Spanning from his inaugural season in 1984 to his untimely demise a decade later, SENNA goes beyond catering solely to F1 enthusiasts. It presents an extraordinary story with a unique cinematic flair, opting for an approach that diverges from conventional documentary techniques. The film masterfully utilizes unparalleled footage, much of it unseen before, sourced from F1 archives.
Transcendental Meditation | Talks

Discover inner calm and profound silence effortlessly.

Transcendental Meditation offers a natural and easy path to deep rest, enhancing energy levels for both the mind and body.

Explore this transformative practice through a series of introductory talks expertly produced and directed by Oz Thakkar.
Between Spiritual & Material Spaces | Gao Brothers
Exploration into the world of fraternal art-star duo, the Gao Brothers A video portrait of the Beijing-based artists, showcasing their work from the 1980s onwards. Dissident and controversial, the Gao Brothers are some of those artists who personally experienced the events of the Cultural Revolution, by which they have been deeply affected.

Film by Oz Thakkar
Written by Dagmar Carnevale Lavezzoli
Narrated by Adam Henderson Scott
Al Jazeera | The Listening Post

In addition to my role as an independent producer, I served as the digital producer for Al Jazeera English's weekly media critique and analysis show, the Listening Post. Delving deep into global news stories and dissecting media reporting, we covered significant events such as Wikileaks, Edward Snowden leaks, and the unfolding of the Arab Spring in Egypt.

My responsibilities included crafting online content and providing vital support in editing and research. Notably, I had the opportunity to film Julian Assange inside the Ecuadorian Embassy just one week before the Edward Snowden leaks.

Position Held: Digital Producer (2013-2014)
Connected | XTRA

Delve into meaningful conversations within the LGBTQ+ community with Asttina Mandella, Munroe Bergdorf, and Mista Strange on Capital XTRA: Connected.

In collaboration with giffgaff and Capital XTRA, I joined forces to amplify the voices shaping LGBTQ+ dialogues. Capital XTRA’s Toni Phillips engages in insightful discussions with RuPaul’s Drag Race star Asttina Mandella, model-activist Munroe Bergdorf, and rapper Mista Strange, emphasizing the importance of communication within the queer community.

Explore the full interview below, where these influential figures speak openly about representation in music, embracing one’s identity, and more.

Produced & Directed by Oz Thakkar
Proper Chat | giffgaff
Join the conversation with our collaboration with Capital FM and giffgaff.

At giffgaff, they believe in hosting authentic conversations. We brought together old friends AJ Odudu, Joel Dommett, and Lynn Ruth Miller recently for a good old proper chat (emoji). As the world begins to open up, let’s not forget the power of communication. 

Produced & Directed by Oz Thakkar
Karl Lagerfeld | Zillions
As the producer of a short film for NOWNESS, I had the privilege of documenting the iconic Karl Lagerfeld in anticipation of his exhibition at Galerie Gmurzynska. The film, directed by Malcolm Venville, captures Malcolm’s crusade to pose a single question to the illustrious designer at his Alpine exhibition.

Notably, the film was the winner of Best Documentary at ASVOFF6.

Directed by: Malcolm Venville
Produced by: Oz Thakkar
The Road Ahead | NEC
In a world where population growth and congested roads pose challenges, technology emerges as a driving force to keep us moving. Japan takes the lead in smart highway systems, utilizing tracking technology and digital tools to predict transport flows and alleviate congestion. The question arises: Can the rest of the world match this pace?

Directed by: Oz Thakkar for Thomas Reuters
Proper Chat | Pride Special

Celebrate Pride Month as AJ Odudu engages in a proper chat with Lawrence Chaney and Baga Chipz.

Produced & Directed by: Oz Thakkar for Global.
The Business of Grime | GQ
Dive into the vibrant world of grime music with the full-length version of GQ’s documentary, “The Business of Grime,” directed by Ewen Spencer. This film sheds light on the entrepreneurial roots of Britain’s influential cultural export.

Venture up-close with breakout artists and emerging talents including Lethal Bizzle, Jammz, DJ Argue, Ratty LOTM, Prince Rapid, Cheeky, and XTC. Gain insights into their entrepreneurial ventures, networks, and the collaborative power of new technologies. Hang out with the hottest name in the scene, AJ Tracey, and discover how these artists run their own companies.

Directed by: Ewen Spencer
Produced by: Jack Youern & Oz Thakkar
Production Company: We Folk
We Are Your Junior Doctors | Save the NHS
This is a story about the patients and people of the NHS, and the staff that have dedicated their lives to helping others at their most scared and their most vulnerable. This campaign is far bigger than the terms and conditions of a contract - this is a campaign to defend the National Health Service itself.

How does the imposed junior doctor contract threaten the future of the NHS? This is a grassroots effort striving to give a voice to 53,000 junior doctors, hundreds of thousands of NHS Staff and millions of patients across the country.

This film is the culmination of the collaborative efforts of a huge number of people who felt impassioned and driven by this cause to dedicate their time and talents for free. They cannot be thanked enough. But they are only the start. You are the next step. We need your help to fight the devastating changes to the way that healthcare can be delivered and the future of the NHS.

Credits: Produced by: Dr Amar Mashru, Dr Michael Eyre and Dr Joe Lipton
Filmed by: Oz Thakkar, Fergus Dingle and Sam Crook
Post Production: Guy Hixon, Simon Smith, Tom Carpenter
Original Soundtrack: Lois Paton
Original Photography: Richard Perry
Narrated by: Amar Mashru
Le Guo | Momentary Suspensions
Nothing is still. Everything shifts.

Film by Oz Thakkar
Written by Dagmar Carnevale Lavezzoli
Narrated by Sasha Stoddard
Han Bing | Reversed Dreamscapes
Join us as we delve into the painterly world of Han Bing's photographic exhibition, 'Reversed Dreamscapes', exploring the ramifications of a consumerist world through deceptively beautiful impressionist - like images.

Film by Oz Thakkar
Written by Dagmar Carnevale Lavezzoli
Narration by Sasha Stoddard
Sheng Qi | Post Mao
Film by Oz Thakkar
Written by Dagmar Carnevale Lavezzoli
Narrated by Adam Henderson Scott
Xu Yong | Through the Hutongs
Film by Oz Thakkar
Written by Dagmar Carnevale Lavezzoli
Narrated by Caroline Ford
ESG Initiative | Reuters

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The Passport of the Future | NEC
Smart use of big data can make a passenger experience faster and more enjoyable. Facial recognition technology streamlines the passenger processing time and stops bottlenecks at checkpoints. Find out how your face may replace your passport...

Directed by Oz Thakkar for Thomas Reuters
UNIDO | Country Partnership
How UNIDO is using its Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) approach to take industry and manufacturing in Ethiopia to the next level. UNIDO is the specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability.

Directed by Oz Thakkar
Footage supplied by United Nations
Orffa | Marubeni

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Saide | Marubeni

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Teddy Jackson | Freak
Creative Direction: @teddyjackson_
Assistant Creative Direction: @hausofdarkwah
Art Direction: @teddyjackson_
Stylist: @paigeofmagic
Set Assistants: @raynayjay @adamnaas @billiedellios
Movement: @billiedellios @hausofdarkwah
Director: @ozthakkar
Photographer: @ericavonstein
Editor: @esmeonahill
Colorist: @rainbowfoxcolour
Agrovista | Marubeni
Established more than 60 years ago, Agrovista is one of the leading national distributors of agri-input products in the UK, with around 20% of the UK market. Agrovista’s team of agronomists provide advice, based on extensive research, and a range of technical services to assist growers.

Directed by Oz Thakkar for Reuters
Dark Wolf | Ada x Nik

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Creekstone | Marubeni
Creekstone Farms supplies Black Angus Beef, antibiotic-free Duroc Pork and other value-added products to top grocers and restaurants in the United States, as well as exporting to Europe, Latin America and Asia.

Coporate Film made with Reuters Plus

Produced & Directed by Oz Thakkar
M.I.A. | Finally

 
Bloom Twins | Blue
Music video for Bloom Twins 'Blue' (2014)

Starring: Bloom Twins, Aiden Shaw & Billy Huxley
Produced & Directed by Nikita Andrianova, Oz Thakkar & Ish Sahotay

Director of Photography - Greg Taylor
Editor - Anaïs Bimpel
Colorist - Andrew Cloke
Make Up - Julia Laza Music

Bloom Twins, Paul Love, James Earp Lyrics - Lenka Chubuklieva
Upon The Edge (2022)
As the post-production supervisor for a suspenseful drama feature film, I played a key role in the company of a West End play grappling with their past and present anxieties. Directed by Tim Reynard, produced by Natasha Markou (“A Mouthful of Air”), and written by Thea Gajic (“Surviving Earth”) and Oliver Welsh, the film unfolds as a nearby terrorist attack forces them to seek shelter beneath the streets of London.

Filmed at West End’s Arts Theatre & Immersive LDN, this compelling project is brought to life in association with the Olivier award-winning executive producer Louis Hartshorn (“Rotterdam”).
Siberia (2021)

Collaborating with executive producer Diana Phillips, I played a key role in developing, budgeting, and scheduling the script for Siberia. This laid the foundation for launching a funding campaign for a film that promises a subjective and objective journey into the subconscious. The project, helmed by Abel Ferrara and starring Willem Dafoe, is set for release in 2021.

Collaborators: Abel Ferrara & Diana Phillips
Job Purpose: Development, initial production budget, and schedule in 2015
Made (2014)
Explore the captivating double life of Minako, an avatar in the Tokyo game, in “Made.” Shot entirely in Tokyo alongside German Photographer and Director Norbert Schoerner, this intriguing tale follows Minako’s efforts to protect her secrets when a chance encounter with a foreigner threatens her concealed existence.
 
Developed as a precursor to the feature film script “Gaijin,” “Made” successfully tested the waters for filming in Tokyo, earning acclaim with screenings at Cannes and the London Film Festival.
 
Key Credits:
  • Directed by: Norbert Schoerner
  • Produced by: Oz Thakkar
  • Written by: Juanita Boxill
  • Starring: Rina Ohta, Jonathan Forbes & Gardar Eide Einarsson
 
Copyright 2014 Dayfornight / Silent Treatment Limited.
Explore more about “Made” >> http://made.dayfornight.tv
A Solid Bond (DEVELOPMENT)

Tribes, Lust & Race.

Seventeen year old JEM DEJI is a mod and a second-generation British-Nigerian, who yearns to express an identity independent of the stereotypes in society.

A Solid Bond is a coming-of-age story set in London during the early 1980s, against the back-drop of gang rivalries, teenage romance and racism.

Focusing on JEM DEJI, a 17 year old black mod and second generation British-Nigerian, who yearns to express an identity independent of stereotypes.

JEM has to decide whether to stay with his friends or follow in the footsteps of his dad KALU, a first generation Nigerian ex army officer.

A Solid Bond began life as a short film, released to critical acclaim by writer and director Jimo Salako.

Collaborators: Jimo Salako
The Gaijin (Development)
In collaboration with photographer Norbert Schoerner, Oscar-nominated writer Hossein Amini, and Statten Roeg, I delved into crafting a New Wave-style homage script, paying tribute to the golden age of Japanese Yakuza genre films. The project aimed to bring this vision to life in Tokyo, as demonstrated by the short film “Made.”
 
Working through intensive story and script development, we meticulously crafted a treatment, budget, and schedule, poised for pitching with a compelling test shoot in hand. Despite navigating casting challenges and funding close calls, the film has been temporarily shelved.
 
Project Overview:
  • Script Style: New Wave homage to the golden age of Japanese Yakuza genre films
  • Collaborators: Norbert Schoerner, Statten Roeg & Hossein Amini
  • Estimated Budget: £1.5m 
  • Shoot Duration: 45 days on location in Tokyo, Japan
The Place We Go To Hide (2014)

Two sleepwalkers fall in love.

Two sleepwalkers, Martha (Daisy Lowe) and Quentin (Tom Ellis), check into a hotel as returning guests and live parallel lives during their waking hours. The film questions, when it comes to human condition are we actually sleep walking through our lives?

This film was created for Corinthia Hotel, and directed by Zawe Ashton.

Collaborators: Corinthia Hotel, Zawe Ashton & Oliver Harbottle
Legend (2012)
Engaging in the early stages of research and development, I delved into the long-known Kray Twins story before securing a writer. Leveraging new knowledge and the release of files at the National Archives, I meticulously worked through prison records and psychological reports for the twins. This effort resulted in crafting the first draft treatment for the 2015 film, “Legend,” starring Tom Hardy.
 
Collaborators:
  • Chris Clark
  • Working Title Films
Job Purpose: Initial treatment and writer research and development for Producer Chris Clark (2012)
Emily (2013)
“Emily” weaves a poignant narrative, uniting two strangers bound by sadness. Directed by Caroline Harvey and starring Felicity Jones and Christopher Eccleston, this short film explores the deconstruction of a common sexual fantasy within the framework of a stereotypical French film. Lust and loneliness draw Emily and James together as a chance encounter in a coffee shop evolves into something more.
 
Proudly co-produced with Jack Sidey, Nicholas Hatton, and Felicity Jones, “Emily” boasts vibrant performances and made its world premiere at Palm Springs International ShortFest 2013. The film garnered further acclaim, receiving a nomination for Best UK Short at Raindance 2013.
 
Collaborators:
  • Caroline Harvey
  • Jack Sidey
  • Nicholas Hatton
Implementation (2012)
London. Times are changing. Nicole, a City Analyst is flung into a world of activism revolution and conspiracy. Ultimately, she's faced with a life or death pursuit as society rapidly starts to collapse around her.

[unfinished film]

Written & Directed by Ellis Farrell 
Produced by Oz Thakkar
Never After (2012)
“Never After,” a project formerly in development, explores the enduring significance of fairytales in our lives. Spearheaded by creators Sara Wolkowitz and Jessica Fox, along with executive producer Diana Phillips (known for “Alfie” and “Death at a Funeral”), this endeavor seeks to bring forth the REAL, original tales, adapted and updated for modern family audiences. In a world where fairy tales are not merely accidental but essential, “Never After” promises to unravel the timeless threads that guide us through life’s adventures. [2012]
Colonel Gadaffi | The Lost Footage (2011)
In the wake of the civil unrest that swept his nation and in an effort to evade the Nato-led airstrikes that followed, Colonel Muammar Muhammad Abu Minyar al-Gaddafi secretly fled Libya in May 2011 and sought refuge in the West. Having failed to “settle in”, the Colonel returned home soon after. An extensive clean up followed, eradicating all evidence of the ill-fated operation. Apart from this tape.

Starring Henry Lloyd-Hughes & Charlie Creed-Miles
Directed by MJ Delaney
Produced by Jack Sidey
Co-produced by Oz Thakkar
Working Title Films (2008-2012)
Explore my journey at Working Title Films from 2008 to 2012, a period where the magic of filmmaking came to life.
 
As part of the renowned Working Title Films, co-chaired by industry visionaries Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, I immersed myself in the world of cinematic creation. With a rich history dating back to 1984, Working Title boasts a portfolio of over 100 films, collectively grossing over $7.5 billion worldwide and earning 14 Academy Awards.
 
During my time at Working Title Films, I had the privilege of working both in-house at the production company and on-location during principal photography. Engaging with films like Senna, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Legend, Anna Karenina, Green Zone, Les Misérables, A Serious Man, Paul, Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang, and Rush, my role extended to providing crucial feedback on scripts and edits.
 
A personal highlight was contributing regular feedback and assistance during the editing process of Senna, the BAFTA and Sundance-winning documentary that emotionally unfolds the life and death of Brazilian Formula 1 Champion Ayrton Senna, directed by Asif Kapadia.
 
In 2011, I took on the role of Assistant to the Producers and Director for Johnny English Reborn, offering hands-on involvement throughout the entire filmmaking process – from script development, location scouting, casting, principal photography, to final edit and release.
 
Responsibilities:
  • Script Development, Notes, Feedback & Revisions
  • Location Scouts & Recce, Storyboards
  • Casting & Auditions
  • Budgeting & Scheduling
  • Pre-Production, Principal Photography & Post-Production
  • VFX Budgeting, Scheduling, Feedback
  • Music & Archive Research & Clearance
 
Film Releases:
  • Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
  • Legend
  • Anna Karenina
  • Green Zone
  • Les Misérables
  • A Serious Man
  • Paul
  • Nanny McPhee & The Big Bang
  • Rush
Johnny English Reborn (2011)

In 2011, I stepped into the role of Assistant to the Producers and Director for “Johnny English Reborn,” fully immersing myself in the filmmaking journey. From script development and location scouting to casting, principal photography, and the meticulous final edit, I embraced the opportunity to contribute at every stage leading up to the film’s release.
Chugger (2010)
CHUGGER is an experimental, 18 minute one-take film. The premise is a surreal, and somewhat freudian, exploration of the psyche - as a London "chugger" (charity-mugger) is confronted by his conscious during his lunch break. The hero of the film is confronted by his deepest inner thoughts and realisations of his future. The film stars SAMUEL FEENEY (Lord of Darkness), DONNA GRANT (Young Dracula, Is Harry on the Boat?), and Adam Mattison-Ward.

Written by Nic Hinton
Directed by Ellis Farrell
Produced by Oz Thakkar 

Samuel Feeney as Chugger
Adam Mattison-Ward as Elvis
Donna Grant as Mrs. Hot Mum 

Camera by Thomas English
Composed by Daniel Rostrup