About Kelly Needleman
Kelly Needleman is an award-winning writer, director, and producer working across film, television, and commercials. His career began in landscape photography, with work featured by National Geographic, before transitioning into filmmaking. He earned his B.A. in Film Production from Pepperdine University and his M.A. in Film & Television Producing from NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
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Kelly has worked with Wayfarer Studios across film and television development and production, and currently serves as a Creative Executive at Adore Creative, working alongside director Rupert Wainwright on an international slate of film, television, and commercial projects. His directing work includes narrative films, branded campaigns, documentaries, and music videos, with commercial projects for brands and clients including Gold's Gym, Albertsons, Sotheby's, and Compass.
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His latest film, Web of Deceit, is a crime thriller exploring academic corruption, artificial intelligence, and ambition, premiering at the 2026 Newport Beach Film Festival on October 22. His work combines a strong visual sensibility with character-driven storytelling.
SELECTED CREDITS
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Web of Deceit (2026 Feature): Newport Beach Film Festival Premiere
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Gold's Gym: Commercial Campaign
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Eaglewood (TV Series): Showrunner, Director, Executive Producer
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Suitemates (TV Pilot): Showrunner, Director, Writer
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A Player's Game: Director, Writer
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On The Line: Director, Writer
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Valley of Vengeance: Director, Cinematographer
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Last Call On Sunset: Director, Writer, Producer
Directing Approach
Kelly works across narrative filmmaking, commercials, branded content, music videos, and documentary projects. He can help clients take a project from the initial idea through the final edit, including creative development, concepting, and production. His ambition is to make beautiful movies, using natural elements like fog, sea, and sunlight as tools in an outdoor studio, drawing on his background in landscape photography.
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Based primarily in Los Angeles, Kelly is available for projects throughout California and beyond.