Alexander Machlouzarides-Shalit

Alexander Machlouzarides-Shalit is an award-winning Cypriot writer and director, born in New York in 1996 and raised in Cyprus from 2006. His work explores human connection, cultural identity, and the subtle social dynamics of contemporary life, often through a satirical yet empathetic lens. His work seeks to balance humour, observation, and emotional insight, contributing to a contemporary cinematic language that reflects the complexities and contradictions of modern society. While rooted in Cypriot reality, his films aim to resonate with international audiences through their focus on behaviour, nuance and character.

He holds a BA (Hons) in Film Studies from Falmouth University and an MA in Directing from MetFilmSchool London. In 2025, he represented Cyprus as the National Winner at the Young Lions Cannes Film Competition. He also trained under Mark Jenkin during work on the BFI-acclaimed feature Bait (2019) and attended the Cannes Film Festival in 2019 with full accreditation.

His short films, including but not limited to, 20 Euros (2024), Leonidas and the Fish (2021), In the Mood for Food (2022), and The Morning After (2019) have screened and been awarded at numerous international festivals, including BAFTA, Academy Award, and European Film Award qualifying events. His work has been recognized for its writing, directing, and performances, and is noted for its ability to capture complex, character-driven stories within distinct social environments. In 2023, he received a grant from the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Culture for 20 Euros, which he wrote, directed, and edited. 20 Euros and Leonidas and the Fish are available on MUBI and Shorted. 20 Euros was also honoured as the first Cypriot short film to be selected to the prestigious Omeleto platform. The film went on to receive multiple international accolades and was invited for screenings by Hellenic societies across the United States.

Alongside his independent work, he served as Lead Director and Studio Operator of Digital TV for 2 years, creating commercials and branded content. He has also served as Jury Leader for the Liverpool Indie Film Festival and workshop leader of the Speed Filmmaking Workshop at the 2025 Cyprus Film Days, while continuing to develop short and feature-length projects that aim to bring a fresh, contemporary voice to Cypriot cinema.