Atem Kuol is a television and film writer-director with a passion for bold, character-driven storytelling and visually ambitious drama.
His recent work includes serving as Additional Second Unit Director on SAS: Rogue Heroes Series 3 (BBC/ Banijay /Amazon MGM), a high-end, action-driven drama. Previously, he directed several blocks of Emmerdale (ITV Studios) — a total of one 60-minute episode and five 30-minute episodes — handling storylines ranging from suspenseful police investigations and domestic violence sequences to large-scale, multi-generational ensemble drama, with each episode attracting audiences of four million viewers.
His short films, including Open Wide, Milk, and Uncovered, explore grounded, emotionally resonant themes. He is currently developing Silent Grove, an original high-stakes thriller series.
Before moving into directing full-time, Atem spent nearly a decade in VFX production on major titles including Loki (Marvel), Willow (Lucasfilm/Disney+), Heads of State (Amazon MGM), and Death on the Nile (20th Century Studios). This background has shaped a strong technical awareness and a deeply collaborative approach that he brings to every production. At the core of his work is a belief in the power of storytelling to move, challenge, and stay with audiences long after the credits roll.
Awards
Cardiff Mini Festival - Nominated, Best One Minute Wonder
The Hollywood First-Time Filmmaker showcase - Nominated, Best Short
Rapport Festival: Black Film Festival - Nominated, Best Short
Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions @PinewoodStudios - Nominated, Best Short