RSA Films has signed filmmaker Max Winkler for commercial representation. Known for storytelling that astutely portrays the struggles and recklessness of youth, Winkler directed and co-wrote (with Alex McAulay and Matt Spicer) the feature film Flower, a coming-of-age story starring Zoey Deutch as Erica Vandross, a rebellious, quick witted 17 year old. A dark comedy with a cast that also includes Kathryn Hahn, Adam Scott, Tim Heidecker, Joey Morgan and Dylan Gelula, Flower made its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in April and is slated for release in 2018 by The Orchard.
Winkler’s directorial credits also include several episodes of Fox’s hit comedies New Girl and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, as well as Netflix’s Lady Dynamite and Hulu’s Casual. Winkler made his feature directing debut with Ceremony, a comedy he also wrote, starring Uma Thurman, Michael Angarano and Lee Pace. Winkler additionally directed and produced a season of mockumentary web series Clark and Michael, produced by CBS and starring Michael Cera and Clark Duke. Winkler initially gained industry attention for the short film The King of Central Park (directed by Winkler and David Gelb), produced with classmates via a filmmakers’ grant from USC.
The King of Central Park was nominated for the Best Narrative Short Jury Award at the 2006 Tribeca Film Festival. And this year at Tribeca, Flower received a Jury Award nomination for Best U.S. Narrative Feature.
“I was immediately struck by the authenticity in Max’s work,” said Jules Daly, president, RSA Films. “It delivers smart storytelling and great performance, and whether drama or humor, there is something behind the eyes of his characters that’s so compelling. He is very passionate about what he does. As soon as I started talking with him, I knew he’d be a terrific addition to our company.”
Winkler related, “Meeting Jules was the kicker. Her enthusiasm and vision for the business as a whole and what she thinks I can contribute to the company was deeply inspiring and made me feel like I was where I was supposed to be.”
The director said of his new roost, “RSA’s pedigree is obviously humbling. The work they do, in my opinion, is some of the highest in both dramatic storytelling and production value, making this company a dream place to be.”
Winkler continues to be repped by CAA and management 360 for film and TV.
