The art
of attention
Stephen French makes films by hand — documentaries, feature films, and brand stories — from Tokyo. Behind the work sit two decades in film: a run through the Hollywood studio system and award-winning commercials for some of the world's most demanding brands, now folded back into the films. Bold, stylish storytelling that keeps pushing where the frame can go.
The Features
The Way of a Confucian
What the tradition was — and what it asks of us now. A studio documentary on the ethics of a life lived by the sages.
The End of Ethics
Journalist Robert Scheer's searing reckoning with the American experiment — with Oliver Stone, Chris Hedges & Ron Kovic.
Cutting his teeth
The Hollywood studio years — additional & second-unit crew on John Moore's run, directing the films behind the films. Scroll →
Behind Enemy Lines
Flight of the Phoenix
Phoenix Diaries
The Omen · Omenisms
Max Payne · Making Of
What Lola Wants
Anja · El Mirage Man
Bébé
The commercial work
Award-winning spots for global automotive and luxury brands — the discipline of selling a feeling in sixty seconds, brought back to the documentaries.
“Stephen has worked with me on many projects for Bentley Motors. He has shown enormous commitment and great flexibility, and most importantly he is a creative partner I can trust. I have worked with few people who work as hard and deliver such great results on tight budgets. I could not recommend him more highly.”
“When looking for a creative partner for the launch of Tesla's P85D, I sought out Stephen French. His work embodied the class, sophistication and excitement needed to represent one of the most innovative cars in the world. He worked tirelessly to deliver a fantastic piece that exceeded our expectations.”