Global music icon Stormzy has officially announced the launch of #Merky Films, the latest expansion of his formidable #Merky creative and cultural empire. This new venture signals a bold leap into the realm of film and visual storytelling, aiming to champion new voices and powerful British narratives.
To mark its inception, #Merky Films will unveil its debut project, 'Big Man,' a short film produced in association with Apple and shot entirely on an iPhone 16 Pro. Directed by Academy Award-winner Aneil Karia, 'Big Man' features Stormzy in his inaugural lead acting role, a significant milestone in his multifaceted career. The film is set to premiere on YouTube at 8:00 PM BST on June 18th, 2025.
'Big Man' tells the poignant, fictional story of Tenzman, a former rap star grappling with an uncertain phase of his life. His guarded world is unexpectedly disrupted by two mischievous young boys, Klevis and Tyrell, leading to an unlikely and transformative bond. This connection rekindles Tenzman’s dormant musical passion, impulsive joy, and fragile optimism. The film thoughtfully explores themes of reconnecting with one's younger self and embracing gratitude, blending humor, vulnerability, and quiet transformation.
#Merky Films builds upon the success of Stormzy's influential ventures, including #Merky Books, #Merky Foundation, and #Merky FC. Its mission is to create projects that connect communities, celebrate culture, and inspire meaningful change within British cinema and television. Beyond 'Big Man,' the slate includes a powerful drama series, a seminal biopic, thought-provoking documentaries, a new animation project, and a boundary-pushing mockumentary.
Stormzy expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter: "I always say: music is my first love, but film is my second. #Merky Films is something I’ve been dreaming about for ages - a space for powerful British stories and a solid home for fresh, unexpected art." He added, "I hope it inspires you to dream bigger, live louder and hold on to that unapologetic energy that comes with being young.”
With 'Big Man' leading the charge, #Merky Films aims to usher in a new era of creativity, driven by purpose and authenticity, and rooted in the belief that stories possess the power to change lives.
