Peter Chelsom. Hollywood film director, photographer, former actor, Guinness drinker, Honorary Citizen of Fivizzano,
Although a Blackpool native, Peter is a UK and US citizen. He does sound very British however, which, he notes, doesn’t come without its challenges when working across the pond – ‘I have to add ‘just kidding’ to the end of everything I say. They really do not get the jokes. I mean, really.’
His journey to directing began as an observer when his Dad gave him a camera for his 14th birthday. He became (and remains) obsessed. In his words, ‘Suddenly everything became a photograph. For me, there is no line between my still photography and my films.’
But it’s his films he’s best known for. His debut film, ‘Treacle’, won a BAFTA nomination and invitations to festivals worldwide. His second film ‘Hear My Song’, propelled him to Hollywood (and had Princess Diana, no less, attend the royal premiere) and his third ‘Funny Bones’, swept five European film festivals by winning Best Picture and from there, he made The Mighty, Serendipity, Shall We Dance, Hector and The Search for Happiness, The Space Between us, Berlin, I Love You, the list goes on…
Peter has directed everything from comedies to dark thrillers. Throughout his filmmaking life, he has also directed commercials (more comedies and dark thrillers). He attributes his steep learning curve in film directing to his early years in commercials.
Whatever he’s doing though, it’s obvious how much he loves what he does and wants to do as much of it as possible. Which we, of course, wholeheartedly support.
Relaxes with: Tai Chi
Also relaxes with: a Guinness