Richard Zelniker is a renowned award-winning writer and director, having worked extensively in the US and Canada on a diverse range of genre films, from long-form to short-form productions. He has gained recognition for his ability to nurture and work with numerous "up and coming" actors who have gone on to become bankable stars.
One of his notable works is the film "The Vortex", which boasts an impressive cast including Billy Gardell, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Jamie McShane, Azita Ghanizada, Christopher Titus, Nick Gomez, Jeremy Luke, and Emily Alabi. The film has been distributed by Synkronized Films and has enjoyed a successful limited theatrical run across the US, as well as being made available on digital platforms, including Amazon's Prime Video. Furthermore, a television adaptation of the film is currently in development.
Richard Zelniker collaborates with his writing partner and wife, Callie Nguyen Zelniker, and their upcoming projects include a diverse slate of genres, including thrillers, horror, and comedy. He is also developing material with a team of screenwriters, with whom he has attached himself to direct and produce.
Throughout his career, Richard Zelniker has garnered numerous awards, including recognition from the Tokyo International Film Festival, Toronto Film Channel, and the Venice Short Film Festival. His directorial work has been praised for its unique ability to balance quietness and intensity, as exemplified in his film "As Night Comes", which has been lauded for its "beautiful quietness" and impactful moments of violence and chaos.
Richard Zelniker is the founder of Lucid Pictures, a production company through which he has produced various projects, both under his own banner and on assignment. He is represented by Sovereign Talent Group and more information about his work can be found on the Lucid Pictures website.
