Today we’d like to introduce you to Grant Clover.
Hi Grant, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am fiercely passionate about the written word and telling stories. I’ve been addicted to it since I was in kindgarten when I first read the Narnia series by C.S. Lewis. Since then, I’ve been writing every chance I get. It’s also developed from a passion to a career, from writing novels to writing marketing content, music videos, and narrative films. Now, it’s backed up by an English degree, 3 years of copywriting experience, marketing training, and award-winning creative endeavors. My films, I Walk With Ghosts and Portrait of a Smile, that I wrote, produced, and directed have been selected by over 110 festivals (including notable festivals like NFFTY) and won over 80 awards. I’ve been hired to write music videos for top artists, social consult for a Häagen-Dazs ad, judge for local film festivals, story consult for a video game, and much more.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
After being let go at the end of 2024 due to a massive company layoff, I struggled to find a full-time writing position. However, to stay proactive, I leaned in heavily into freelancing, and I’ve quickly built up momentum with it. I’ve gotten the opportunity to work on incredible projects.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a writer, filmmaker, music video director, and commercial creator. My specialty is telling a good story through creative visuals, whether that’s for a brand, a music artist, or a short film. The most impactful ads are the ones that tell a story; take Nike and Apple ads for example. Many of the most viral music videos are the ones that come up with a unique aesthetic, idea, or story; look at Bastille’s “Happier” and Lewis Capaldi’s “Wish You The Best.”
I handle everything from the conception of the idea to the final product. I come up with the idea, write the script, assemble the team, direct the shoot, guide post-production, and then send it to the client.
So far, I’m most proud of my latest short film, Portrait of a Smile. We achieved an award-winning, high-quality, cinematic final result on a limited budget that has received high praise from so many people. It’s been humbling. We also got to work with a fabulous crew, many of whom have worked on high-profile Hollywood films and TV series. We’re currently trying to partner with schools and nonprofits to help further make an impact with the film for suicide awareness.
I like to think my scrappiness, my attention to detail, and my tendency to come to every shoot overprepared helps me stand out — that is, if you’re assuming my out-of-the-box creative ideas are a given (I have a particular knack for finding emotionally resonant moments or absurd comedy concepts).
What makes you happy?
At the end of the day, I value my wife, family, and friends most of all and get the most joy by spending time with them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://grantclover.com/work-with-me
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/grant.clover
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-clover
Image Credits
The picture of the four of us with the TCL Theater backdrop – Steve Escarcega
