About
Emma Branderhorst

Emma Branderhorst is an Amsterdam-based filmmaker whose intimate, character-driven storytelling turns urgent social issues into personal narratives. From her award-winning short films such as Spotless (Crystal Bear, Berlinale) to the viral Cannes Grand Prix winner Piece of Me for KPN, she crafts emotionally resonant stories from a feminine perspective. Known for her naturalistic style and emotional precision, Emma brings warmth and vulnerability to complex themes. She is now working on her first feature film, exploring the painful unraveling of a once-inseparable friendship.

I was born in a small town in the Netherlands and began my career as an actress, loving every moment on set. After multiple auditions at theatre school, I realized that acting wasn’t for me, so I attended the Art Academy in Utrecht. My directorial debut in 2021 “Under the Skin” launched my career, premiering at the prestigious Berlinale Generation. Followed by my second film “Spotless”, earning the Crystal Bear for best film and representing Dutch short films at the Oscars in 2023. My latest short, “Ma Mère et Moi,” also premiered at Berlinale in 2023.

I’m known for my authentic and cinematic storytelling, using a character-driven approach that ensures my films always have a personal touch and a degree of relatability. With a keen eye for realism and a dedication to portraying powerful, independent female protagonists, my work has gained global recognition. Together with an amazing team of people won the Grand Prix at Cannes Lions in 2024 for our commercial “Piece of Me,” along with three Silver Lions. We’ve also been honored with the coveted D&AD award and two consecutive Young Director Awards at Cannes in 2022 and 2023.

Currently, I’m channeling my vision and storytelling prowess into my first feature-length film, which poignantly explores the grief of a lost friendship.