Johan Renck

Biography

Johan Renck is a Swedish director, producer, and visual artist widely regarded as one of the world’s top directors of commercials and music videos. French magazine CB News has described him as "the number one director of commercials and music videos in the world," reflecting his global reputation and influence.

Early Life and Career Beginnings
Renck began his directing career in 1992 at Mekano Film and Television in Stockholm, Sweden. In 1994, he teamed up with childhood friend Jonas Åkerlund to create Renck Åkerlund Films, quickly establishing themselves as a leading production company in Sweden. Around this time, Renck also pursued a music career under the project Stakka Bo, balancing his musical endeavors with his growing interest in directing.

Rise to International Prominence
By 1997, Renck devoted himself to directing full-time, and by 1999, he was collaborating with major artists and brands, including Madonna and Nike. Over the years, he has directed commercials for globally recognized brands such as Nike, Levi's, Mercedes, Dom Perignon, and H&M, and music videos for artists like Kylie Minogue, New Order, Madonna, The Libertines, and The Streets.

Awards and Recognition
Renck’s work has received numerous accolades, including MTV Award nominations for videos with Madonna and Beyoncé, two Cannes Bronze Lions for Nike’s "Racing Marion," and a Silver Lion for his "Karl Lagerfeld for H&M" campaign, which also won the Grand Prix at Eurobest and a Gold at Epica. His short film Cow (2007) for SOS Live Earth earned nominations and a Bronze Award at Eurobest and Epica. Renck has been repeatedly recognized by the MVPA and The Gunn Report, which listed him as the 25th most awarded director of commercials.

Film and Other Media
Beyond commercials and music videos, Renck works across various media, including film, theater, photography, and art projects. He has shot editorial work for Italian Vogue and brands like Diesel. His feature film Downloading Nancy (2008), starring Maria Bello, Jason Patric, Rufus Sewell, and Amy Brenneman, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, competing in the Dramatic Competition.

Current Work and Representation
Renck is based in Stockholm, where he runs RAF. He is represented internationally by RSA/Black Dog in the US and UK, and by Soixante Quinze in France. He is also recognized by ICM’s David Unger for feature film projects, cementing his reputation as a versatile and highly respected director in both commercial and cinematic spheres.