Jeff Nichols

Jeff Nichols (born December 7, 1978) is a well-regarded film director and screenwriter in the American film industry, with his films often recognized for their Southern United States backdrop and ambiance. Nichols has a long-lasting professional relationship with actor Michael Shannon, who has featured in all of his films to date. Nichols, who began his education in filmmaking at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, penetrated the independent film scene with Shotgun Stories (2007). His directorial skill has crafted acclaimed films such as Take Shelter (2011), Mud (2012), Midnight Special (2016), Loving (2016), and The Bikeriders (2023). Nichols was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and he notably acquired his early education at Little Rock Central High School. With influential figures like Mark Twain shaping his Edifice of inspiration, Nichols has consistently delivered compelling narratives which have graced the cinematographic sphere.

Nichols commenced his independent production career with Take Shelter in 2011, also starring Shannon. He ventured into the international stage when his film, Mud, competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. His 2016 film, Midnight Special, was also a significant contender at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival. The same year, his direction of the drama Loving, a portrayal of the important U.S. civil rights case Loving v. Virginia, gained several award nominations. Six of Nichols' films have notably featured Shannon, forming a telling testament of the bond between the two. After a stint working on the remake of Alien Nation that didn't materialize, Nichols converted his script into an original film produced by Paramount Pictures. To showcase his versatility, Nichols also directed a short film, Long Way Back Home, based on a song by his brother Ben. Nichols' recent projects include Yankee Comandante, A Quiet Place: Day One, and The Bikeriders.