Ben Van Kleek

Ben Van Kleek is a writer/director from Vancouver, BC who produces TV commercials, films, and branded content. He recently produced the short film Good News, directed by Osric Chau, starring Ken Kirby and Jacky Lai. The film was an official selection at the Austin Film Festival, an Academy Award qualifying event. Good News would go on to win best short film at the Golden Gate International Film Festival. The film also played at the Asian American International Film Festival, the Portland Film Festival, the Soo Film Festival, the Viet Film Fest and the Seattle Asian American Film Festival. Ben established BVK Films, where he would write, direct, and produce media. His latest TV commercial for FirstMate Pet Food was seen by 7 million people on Animal Planet, DIY Network, CNN, E!, Fox Business Network, Oprah Winfrey Network, Discovery Channel, and CNBC. His branded content work has also been distributed online to millions of users through Facebook and YouTube. Ben's producing experience includes sales, CSP (Covid-19 safety plan & actsafe), client relations, union relations (SAG, UBCP, ACTRA, IATSE), film financing, casting, crewing, cast & executive communications, cast & executive travel, investor agreements, cast & crew agreements, budgeting, scheduling, production management, vendor & supplier negotiations, permits & insurance, and distribution. His post-production experience includes editing, colour correction, and audio finishing. Ben maintains strong relationships with filmmakers, crew, suppliers and vendors in BC, Ontario, and LA. After completing secondary school, Ben studied at Capilano University in North Vancouver focusing on production, cinematography, and lighting. He has also worked as a director's assistant to notable filmmakers Shawn Levy, Antoine Fuqua, and Giancarlo Esposito. Ben also brings a wealth of production experience, working in the production office, lighting, grip, camera, art, set dec, AD, props, construction, and locations department. He was a member of the lighting department for IATSE 891 working on TV and Film productions in Vancouver.