Manu Lapière

I’m a versatile award-winning Director/DOP 

with a portfolio of about 140 commercials directed over the last 14 years.

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I am originally from Belgium, now based in South Africa where I relocated 25 years ago.

I started my carrier as a cinematographer, and quickly recognised by my peers, I became a proud member of the South African Society of Cinematographers (SASC).

I operated for Michael Apted, Adrian Biddle, Michael Seresin, took part in almost 70 documentaries for Discovery Channel, MTV, National Geographic… I worked as a DOP on 8 movies and close to 100 music videos for stars like Kelly Rowland, Carrie Underwood, Johnny Clegg, etc...

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Fourteen years ago, driven by my passion for storytelling, I transitioned my focus to exclusively directing TV commercials for internationals clients. 

My versatility shines through my ability to bring a wide range of scripts to life, spanning categories such as drinks, food, telcos, beauty, humour and action.

I am at ease capturing the essence of natural lifestyle commercials, crafting compelling narratives, or integrating real-life footage with CGI.

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My last accolade is a Cristal award (Gold) at the 2023 African Cristal Festival and a  Bronze award at the 2023 Pitchers Awards, which is the representative of Cannes in Africa. I also won gold and silver at the Pitchers in 2022, 2 bronze at the African Cristal Festivals, best TVC at Grand Jury de la Publicité Panafricaine, Audience award at Les Créatives in the Indian Ocean...

 

I speak French, English, Italian, Dutch, with an understanding in Spanish and Portuguese. My projects took me in more than 30 different countries, where I directed for brands like Lipton Iced Tea, Kellogg's, Klorane, premium beers like Beaufort Beer and Castel beer, and products from the Pepsi Co, and Coca Cola  Co.

 

I’m looking forward to the next adventure!