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Darling Films signs Jessica J. Rowlands
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Darling Films have signed the Oscar shortlisted and YDA Cannes Lions 2026 nominated Director for representation.
Jessica J. Rowlands is a narrative screenwriter and director whose work explores coming-of-age stories about outsiders, blending emotional depth with cinematic energy.
She is the director of RISE, the first Zimbabwean film to premiere at the Tribeca Festival and to qualify for the Academy Awards. Inspired by a true story and shot entirely in Zimbabwe with an all-African cast and crew, RISE has screened at over 60 international festivals and won more than 30 awards worldwide, including four Best Director wins. Rowlands has just been shortlisted at the Young Directors Awards in Cannes Lions 2026.
An established screenwriter, Rowlands is currently writing a feature for an Oscar-winning director and is attached to direct a feature she wrote for an Oscar-nominated producer. She is developing a slate of projects across drama, action, and elevated genre. With a distinct voice rooted in authenticity and visual flair, her work is driven by bold, character-led storytelling with global resonance.
"Jessica R. Rowlands is an extraordinary young talent, one of the most exciting directors we have ever seen. Remember the name, without doubt you will hear it, again and again. Her vision, creativity and drive set her apart. She really is the most promising newcomer, destined for the top. The only challenge will be catching her between her many productions.
Initially Jessica started by training in Law in both the UK and the US, quickly realising her heart was set on film making. She wrote her debut film Rise and directed and Executive Produced it. The film was shot in Zimbabwe with street cast and local crew. Rise has taken the world by storm, winning over 30 awards internationally including four Best Director wins and earning an Oscar shortlist.
Jessica is now shooting her first fully funded feature which she has written and will also Exec Produce. She is also in writing rooms with the Wallace and Gromit team on their next feature. We could not be more proud to welcome Jessica to Darling Films.” said Clare Timms, MD and Co-Owner Darling Films.
"Joining Darling feels like an exciting new chapter. From our first conversations, I was struck by how passionate they are about supporting filmmakers and championing distinctive voices. As a women-run company, they’ve built a culture that feels both ambitious and genuinely supportive, which is something I was immediately drawn to. As I expand into commercials, I’m excited to bring the same energy, heart and cinematic storytelling that drives my narrative work into campaigns. I love work that feels bold, dynamic and visually distinctive, whether it’s in sport, fashion or beyond, and I can’t wait to see what we create together.” adds Rowlands.
