Biography

Chantelle James is an award-winning, Australian-born writer and director based in Austin, Texas, creating emotionally honest, visually lyrical films about human connection, transformation, and hope. Her work explores the moments that redefine us and the relationships that help us rebuild, bringing compassion and quiet hope to stories of profound change.

After earning an Advanced Diploma in Performing Arts (Acting) from the Actors Centre Australia, Chantelle began her career as an actor before transitioning behind the camera. That background in performance informs her collaborative, actor-focused approach to directing, with a deep commitment to truthful, emotionally authentic performances.

In 2020, Chantelle founded Lady Alchemist Films, a production company dedicated to telling stories from underrepresented perspectives while supporting female-identifying creatives.

Her feature screenplay Love, Ellie was selected for both the 2024 Athena Film Festival Writers Lab and the Stowe Story Labs Narrative Lab. She later wrote and directed the companion proof-of-concept short film Love, from Ellie, which premiered at the Academy Award®-qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival in 2025, earned a Telly Award, and has since received multiple audience awards.

Beyond filmmaking, Chantelle is passionate about fostering community and creating opportunities for women in the industry. She is a proud member of the Alliance of Women Directors and previously served as Podcast Chair on the board of Women in Film and Television Austin from 2021 to 2023.

Through every film, Chantelle strives to tell stories that remind us hope can be found even in life's darkest moments.
- IMDb mini biography by: Lady Alchemist Films