JAMES ROUTH DOCUMENTARY DIRECTOR
JAMES ROUTH
INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY DIRECTOR
LONG FORM DOCUMENTARY
Feature and landmark documentaries, often involving extended access, sensitive subject matter and complex storytelling.
A landmark two-part investigative documentary built around unprecedented genetic research into Adolf Hitler. The films generated global headlines and reframed historical understanding through rigorous, high-stakes storytelling.
An authored film with Liz Carr examining assisted dying, combining personal narrative with international investigation.
A polemical feature documentary authored by David Baddiel, examining the persistence of antisemitism through personal testimony, cultural analysis and global perspective.
A two-part authored documentary combining personal reflection with social inquiry. The films explore masculinity, society and identity with openness, humour and emotional depth.
An observational series following the work of coroners in London, exploring sudden and unexplained deaths with sensitivity and empathy.
An intimate, fast-moving film following Europe’s migrant routes during winter, combining frontline access with a clear-eyed examination of humanitarian crisis and moral responsibility.
brand COMMISSIONED DOCUMENTARY
Commissioned films for brands and organisations, approached with the same documentary discipline and editorial care as broadcast work.
A 90-minute feature documentary inside the world of endurance racing, filmed with privileged access to the Porsche Works Team at Le Mans and the Nürburgring.
A multi-film project funded by the Olympics, following Olympians visiting refugee camps around the world to witness the power of sport.
An IVCA award-winning commissioned by Leo Pharma, exploring the lived experience of psoriasis sufferers.
DOCUMENTARY SERIES
Highly rated ocumentary series built on long-term access, narrative clarity and trust with contributors.
The global series that reshaped Formula 1’s relationship with its audience, filmed with unprecedented access. Seasons 1 and 3.
Observational series following the takeover of Wrexham AFC, combining sport, community and character.
An observational series offering rare access to clergy across England as they navigate faith, doubt and relevance in modern Britain.
BRANDED SHORTS
Documentary-led short films commissioned by brands.
A Rolex Award documentary profile of an innovator using sound to protect endangered rainforest, filmed on location in Ecuador.
A brand film celebrating Ford’s AWD range through landscape and movement rather than product messaging.
A short film marking a collaboration between Swarovski and the late Zaha Hadid, focused on creative process and legacy.
EXCEPTIONAL INDIVIDUALS
Intimate documentary portraits of exceptional individuals, built on trust, access and collaboration.
A long-form documentary collaboration with organist Anna Lapwood, developed at her request and currently in production — shaped through close creative dialogue and sustained access.
An short documentary commissioned by Meltin' Pot, celebrating photographer Rankin's photo campaign celebrating difference in relationships.
A long-term series of documentaries following Hayley Okines, filmed over many years, based on access to her life with progeria. Built on trust and continuity, the films form an intimate, life-affirming portrait of resilience, love and humanity.
CLASSIC, quirky DOCUMENTARy
Character-led films driven by curiosity, humour and an affection for unusual worlds.
A joyful portrait of festive obsession taken to glorious extremes — playful, warm-hearted and a seasonal cult favourite.
A road-trip documentary exploring intense emotional relationships between people and their cars — strange, funny and unexpectedly tender.
A compelling portrait of a 13-year-old nicotine addict — provocative, intimate, sometimes funny, and difficult to ignore.