Craig Gillespie

Craig Gillespie (born 1 September 1967) is an acclaimed Australian-American film, television, music video, and commercial director. Gillespie's career spans various mediums and genres, with highlights that include directing distinguished films such as Lars and the Real Girl (2007), Fright Night (2011), I, Tonya (2017), and Cruella (2021). Born in Sydney, Gillespie relocated to New York City in his late teens to pursue his interest in illustration, graphic design, and advertising at the School of Visual Arts. Gillespie's professional journey began as an intern at a renowned ad agency, but his creative vision soon saw him ascend to the role of creative director at various firms. His transition to film directing came in 1995. Gillespie's directorial prowess has been recognized by prominent industry bodies, with a win at the 2006 Directors Guild of America Award and a Golden Lion Award at 2005's Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival.

Gillespie's commercial for Snickers was voted the top ad of Super Bowl XLIV, and his work on Altoids and Ameriquest have received critical acclaim and stand in the Museum of Modern Art's permanent collection. Despite an unsteady debut in the film industry, Gillespie bounced back brilliantly with ongoing successes. He established himself as a notable figure in television as well, directing key episodes of The United States of Tara. Gillespie's work in the music video arena includes directing the video for Kid Cudi's single, 'No One Believes Me'. His recent ventures have seen him directing projects for Walt Disney Pictures and stepping into the lucrative universe of superhero films. His future projects include a film adaptation of Ben Mezrich's book The Antisocial Network, focusing on the GameStop short squeeze, to be released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.