SHANGHAI, CHINA — Global production company Sweetshop has signed Director Matthys Boshoff for representation exclusively in China and Hong Kong and for non-exclusive representation in Southeast Asia.
Matthys takes a mixed-media approach to commercial filmmaking, blending storytelling and compelling performances with cinematic visuals, VFX and in-camera trickery. He has worked with brands, including Subaru, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Discovery Bank, DBS Bank, Vitality, Changi Airport Group and Singapore Tourism Board. His ads and branded content have been awarded at Cannes Lions, the One Show, LIA and took both the Loeries Film and Creative Effectivity Grands Prix.
His first feature film The Story of Rachel de Beer was nominated for seven South African Film & TV Awards (SAFTAS) and won three and has gone on to ink distribution deals around the globe with major players, including HBO Europe, Amazon Prime for North America via ITN and Encrypta Latin America.
His second feature Flesh of My Flesh is in development and was one of only 10 projects selected for La Fabrique Les Cinemas du Monde 2021, an initiative by the French Institute in collaboration with Cannes Film Festival and Marche du Film. This is an adaptation of a short film with the same title that has played in competition at Clermont Ferrand – the world’s largest and arguably most prestigious short film festival.
The South African-born Director has lived in Singapore for the last two years, travelling across Asia frequently. His appreciation for different languages and people has influenced his understanding of humanity and approach to filming people and characters.
When he’s not making films, Matthys is busy completing his Executive MBA at the Berlin School for Creative Leadership and chasing his love for adventure; mountain climbing and riding his bicycle through the desert, sometimes dressed in pink.
Matthys said, “I have been following Sweetshop since 2014. It’s incredible to be working with one of the top companies in the world and be on the roster with other Directors whose work I truly admire. Not only does Sweetshop make great ads, but for me, there’s further synergy with their long-form division and I look forward to bringing those skills to the advertising game. Besides all that, the company’s made up of great people and their commitment to diversity, sustainability and responsible business is truly inspiring, positioning Sweetshop as a leader in our industry.”
Laura Geagea, Managing Director & Executive Producer of Sweetshop China, Asia + MENA, said, “Matthys’ mix media approach to film making is going to be immensely popular in the region. His work consists of both visual, as well as dialogue driven-emotive storytelling and quirky performances. There’s something for everyone and I know our partners across China and Asia will think so too.”
Wilf Sweetland, Global CEO & Partner at Sweetshop said, “Matthys’ experience and personal approach to craft is inspiring. His work is brimming with emotional insight and a sense of empathy. He’s collaborative and his stature as a director is unrivalled in the region. I think agencies and brands are going to love working with him and I’m humbled that he’s chosen Sweetshop to represent him.”
To watch Matthys work, click here. To work with Matthys, contact Laura Geagea at Lgeagea@thesweetshop.tv or Penny Woo at penny@thesweetshop.tv
