Michael Francis Williams is a Black queer British filmmaker whose narrative work focuses on unique stories of culture, identity and from marginalized voices. He made his TV directing debut with the Peabody-winning David Makes Man, created by Tarell Alvin McCraney (Moonlight) and executive produced by Oprah Winfrey and Michael B. Jordan. His 90-minute pilot episode premiered to rave reviews at SXSW, and was named by Hollywood Reporter and The New York Times as one of the best TV episodes of 2019.
After developing one of the largest animated musical films set in Africa for Netflix, Michael recently worked with Melina Matsoukas to direct on Apple’s drama series, The Changeling, starring Lakeith Stanfield. Michael is currently developing a film with writer Kiese Laymon and Issa Rae’s HOORAE, and the feature adaptation of Blue Light by author Walter Mosley, winner of the Anisfield-Book Award, which honors important writing that contributes to the understanding of historical racism and diversity.
In addition to his film and TV work, Michael has written and directed celebrated shorts including Mila for NOWNESS’ Black Star series and Stay Woke, an experimental, editorial film for AFROPUNK. He is also a prolific commercial director, who has worked with top brands like Nike, Amazon and Adidas.