Charlotte Wells was born on June 13, 1987 in Edinburgh, Scotland. From a young age, she had a passion for storytelling and filmmaking. She would often create short films with her friends using a handycam borrowed from her father, who was always supportive of her creative pursuits.
After graduating high school, Charlotte decided to further her education by pursuing a dual Master of Fine Arts and Master of Business Administration at the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts and the Stern School in New York. It was during her time at NYU that she honed her skills in writing and directing, culminating in the creation of three short films that showcased her talent and vision.
Charlotte's big break came with the release of her feature film debut, Aftersun. This coming-of-age drama explored the complex dynamics of a father-daughter relationship and was met with critical acclaim at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. The success of Aftersun propelled Charlotte into the spotlight, earning her numerous awards for her directing prowess.
Charlotte drew inspiration for Aftersun from her own family history, particularly from a poignant moment when she stumbled upon an old family album. Seeing her father at a young age made her contemplate the passage of time and the impact of family on one's life. This personal connection to the material fueled her creative vision and imbued the film with authenticity.
One of Charlotte's notable collaborations was with actor Paul Mescal, whom she directed in Aftersun. Paul's performance garnered critical acclaim and earned him an Oscar nomination, further solidifying Charlotte's reputation as a director capable of eliciting powerful performances from her cast.
As her career continues to evolve, Charlotte remains dedicated to telling stories that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Her unique voice and perspective have established her as a rising talent in the world of cinema, with fans eagerly anticipating her future projects.