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Zack Keller
Narrative Director at King
Professional Background
Zack Keller is an accomplished writer and director with a broad footprint in the entertainment industry, specializing in television, feature films, video games, and comic books. Currently serving as the Narrative Director at King, a renowned interactive entertainment company, Zack has built an impressive portfolio that showcases his versatility and talent in multiple storytelling mediums. His journey in the creative arts has been marked by significant contributions to major franchises and projects that have captivated audiences around the world.
Zack's career began at Pixar Animation Studios, where he honed his skills in animation and storytelling. This foundational experience set the stage for his future successes. He swiftly transitioned into digital content creation by co-creating "Dick Figures," which became the highest-rated animated web series on YouTube, amassing nearly one billion views and earning an Annie Award nomination. This achievement reflects Zack's ability to engage viewers and push the boundaries of animated storytelling.
Education and Achievements
Zack attended the University of Southern California (USC), one of the premier institutions for cinematic arts. He earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Cinematic Arts Production and also gained a valuable Minor in Game and Interactive Media Design. His education not only equipped him with a strong artistic foundation but also provided him with the innovative thinking necessary for the evolving landscape of narrative design, particularly in video games and interactive media.
Following his time at Pixar, Zack brought his narrative expertise to Telltale Games, where he served as a lead writer and narrative designer. In this role, he shaped the stories for beloved franchises such as "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Batman," "The Walking Dead," and "Tales from the Borderlands." His work at Telltale has been influential in defining narrative-driven gaming, demonstrating how interactive storytelling can engage players on a deeper level.
In addition to his contributions to Telltale Games, Zack expanded his reach within the television and comic book realms. He recently wrote for popular animated series like Cartoon Network's "Unikitty!" and contributed to the comic series "Cuphead: Comic Capers & Curios (Volume 1)" for Dark Horse Comics in collaboration with Studio MDHR. These projects showcase Zack's ability to adapt his writing style to different formats and audiences while maintaining the rich narratives fans have come to expect from his work.
Notable Contributions and Legacy
Throughout his career, Zack Keller has held various significant positions that reflect his prowess in storytelling and narrative design. His tenure includes roles as a Writer and Director at the Jim Henson Company and Six Point Harness, among others. He also served as Creative Director at Glass & Marker, where he further honed his skills in leadership and creative collaboration.
One of Zack's core strengths is his ability to navigate the intersection of traditional narrative techniques and modern interactive technologies. This skill set is especially crucial in today's entertainment landscape, where storytelling transcends traditional boundaries. His work has not only earned acclaim but also has paved the way for emerging creators in the industry, inspiring them to explore the possibilities of storytelling in various formats.
In conclusion, Zack Keller stands out as a multifaceted creative force within the entertainment industry. His journey from an education at USC to pivotal roles at titans of the industry like Pixar, Telltale Games, and Cartoon Network illustrates a dedication to storytelling that resonates across generations. With a firm commitment to pushing the limits of narrative design, Zack continues to be a significant influencer in both the animation and gaming worlds. As he progresses in his career, audiences can eagerly anticipate more innovative projects that entertain and inspire.
Achievements
- Co-creator of the animated web series "Dick Figures" which earned nearly a billion views on YouTube.
- Received an Annie Award nomination for contributions to animated content.
- Contributed to multiple award-winning franchises at Telltale Games including "The Walking Dead" and "Guardians of the Galaxy."
- Engaged audiences with popular animated shows on networks such as Cartoon Network.