Stormzy launches #Merkyfilm with acting debut in new short film Big Man
Stormzy has revealed his next creative venture: a new production company called #Merkyfilm – and he’s not just producing. He’s starring in the first project too. The London rapper, known for his work on #MerkyBooks and #MerkyFC, says this latest move is all about “telling our stories” – putting Black British narratives on screen with energy, authenticity and heart.
The company’s first release is a short film titled Big Man, directed by Oscar winner Aneil Karia, whose credits include The Long Goodbye and Surge. It’ll be available to watch for free on YouTube from 18th June, and marks Stormzy’s first lead acting role. Credited as Michael “Stormzy” Omari, he plays a character called Tenzman – a former rap star navigating life after fame, until an unexpected friendship sparks a new path forward.
The 13-minute film, shot entirely on a smartphone in South London, is a collaboration with Apple and features rising talents Klevis Brahja (15) and Jaydon Eastman (14), who play Klevis and Tyrell. The story centres on community, identity and rediscovering joy. Brahja, who was scouted on the street, makes his acting debut, while Eastman brings West End experience from Matilda the Musical and MJ The Musical.
Stormzy said:
“It captures the joy, the spirit and the fearless energy of youth – and I hope it inspires you to dream big.”
He also noted that while music is his first love, film is a close second, and this new platform is “a natural extension of everything we do at #Merky.”
The rapper has been laying the groundwork for years. In 2018, he launched #MerkyBooks to support underrepresented writers, followed by #MerkyFC, which opened a community hub in Croydon in 2023 with a full-size pitch, studio, and gaming centre aimed at supporting young people in sports careers.
Now, with #Merkyfilm, he’s set on pushing boundaries in UK film. Projects in the works include a drama series, an animated feature, a mockumentary, and a full-scale biopic that his team say will “leave a lasting cultural mark.”
For more arts and culture stories like this, you can also explore EyeOnLondon’s review of George the Poet’s British Library appearance, or check out our features on homegrown music and film talent.
Stormzy’s Big Man adds something new to the British cultural landscape – not just another celeb brand, but a sincere move into storytelling with social impact at its core. Whether you’re following him from the stage or screen, it’s hard not to respect the momentum he’s building.
[Image Credit: Jason Nocito]
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