Director Matt Smukler has joined Rakish–the production boutique launched earlier this year by EPs Brad Johns and Preston Garrett–for commercial representation in the U.S.
L.A.-born and bred, Smukler has been directing commercials and films for almost two decades. A former agency creative, he has helmed award-winning ads for brands such as Nike, Toyota, Coca-Cola, the NFL, Microsoft, Budweiser, Reebok, MTV, 20th Century Fox, AT&T, Absolut, and McDonald’s. Prior to coming aboard the Rakish roster, Smukler was handled by Community Films in the ad arena. Before that, his spotmaking roost was PRETTYBIRD.
Smukler’s first feature documentary Wildflower is now in postproduction. The film follows an 18-year-old track and field star as she juggles her endeavors in school with the challenge of supporting her mentally disabled parents. Smukler spent five full years following the wildly endearing and eccentric family.
Smukler is also in pre-production on a feature narrative entitled Prince of Lost Places, based on the book by the same name.
“Our ethos as a company is that ads and films shouldn’t just be made to be seen and heard, they’re meant to be felt,” said Johns. “That breaking through is undeniable within Matt’s work. He knows how to create genuinely cinematic and magical moments.”
