“David Leaf is like an explorer who takes us along on his voyage to new discoveries. He’s a master storyteller, whether he’s writing or doing a documentary on John Lennon, Frank Sinatra, Brian Wilson, or the Bee Gees, he’s going to show you something essential and much that you never knew. There’s a big difference between being entertained and an emotional experience. He will always give you something of substance while entertaining you all day long.”
Dion, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artist
Filmmaking
The emotional power of David Leaf’s work is unparalleled.
As a director and producer, David Leaf doesn’t just tell stories. His ability to tell a story—in a short film or a feature-length documentary—that keeps the audience glued to the screen is just part of what makes his work significant and memorable.
Leaf’s films are the “Gold Standard” documentary for each subject.
His feature documentaries are more than definitive. They illuminate, offering rare insight into stories we think we know and important ones that we need to know.
His pop culture retrospectives take great artists and contextualizes their standing in the 20th Century, to show the 21st Century generations why these legendary figures…from the Marx Brothers to Frank Sinatra to Jonathan Winters (and dozens more) matter today.
Leaf’s films have moved audiences to tears…and standing ovations…around the world.
Leaf synthesizes complex lives into essential films, and places their artistic greatness in the context of our times
Very simply, through his work, Leaf brings legends to life for contemporary audiences. There’s a reason he is trusted by iconic figures, their families and their estates.
Services
• Producing
• Writing
• Directing
• Project Consultant
• Creative Development
Selected Projects
Consultant: The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart
Director/Producer: The Night James Brown Saved Boston
Director/Producer: The U.S. vs. John Lennon
Brian Wilson and David Leaf discuss the documentary Beautiful Dreamer: Brian Wilson and the Story of Smile.
View the program >
Producer: Who Is Harry Nilsson (And Why Is Everybody Talkin' About Him)