Writer / Director / Filmmaker

A Turkish-British writer-director & filmmaker based in London.

While studying history at university, I co-founded the filmmakers' collective Campdale Motion, with whom I have directed and lensed a number of short films. My debut short, Precipice, secured the Future of Film Awards' Best First Time Director, while my debut project as a cinematographer, The Holy Yield, earned the TerrorMolins Film Festival's Best Short Film award.

I am passionate about thrillers, particularly those that confront characters with moral dilemmas, and seek out projects exploring deeply personal subjects. I also favour celluloid film as a method of filmmaking and for its versatility in rendering light and colour. My work is influenced by filmmakers including Asghar Farhadi, Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Krzysztof Kieślowski and Christopher Nolan.

I am currently in development on a drama-thriller short film and my first feature film.

View photography
Portrait of Chaa Ustaoglu
Recognition
  • 01

    Best First Time Director

    Future of Film AwardsPrecipice

  • 02

    Best Short Film

    TerrorMolins Film FestivalThe Holy Yield

  • 03

    Best Film (Short)

    Freewheeling Film AwardsMy Cuppa Tea

  • 04

    Best Micro Short (Runner Up)

    Brighton Rocks International Film Festival (BIFA qualifying)My Cuppa Tea