Niles Atallah, a dynamic and multifaceted creative individual, calls Santiago, Chile, his home, while also boasting dual citizenship of both Chile and the United States, reflecting his diverse cultural heritage.
Born in California in the year 1978, Atallah's early life was marked by the vibrant and eclectic influences of the West Coast, shaping his artistic inclinations and creative trajectory.
Following his academic pursuits, Atallah earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California at Santa Cruz, a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence and innovative approach to education.
Niles is a multifaceted creative force, boasting a remarkable range of expertise as a writer, director, and cinematographer, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of feature films, music videos, video art, installations, and short films.
Niles made a significant mark in the world of cinema with the premiere of his feature film debut, Lucía, at the esteemed San Sebastián Film Festival in 2010. This milestone event garnered widespread critical acclaim, with the film receiving an impressive array of accolades. Among these prestigious awards were the FIPRESCI Critics Prize, a testament to the film's exceptional artistic merit. Additionally, Lucía earned the Prix Découverte de la Critique Française, a nod to its innovative storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship. The film also received the Prix Spécial du Jury at the Toulouse Film Festival, a recognition of its unique vision and artistic flair. Furthermore, Niles' direction was recognized with the Best Director award at the Valdivia International Film Festival in Chile, a prestigious honor that solidified his status as a rising talent in the film industry.
Noted Chilean filmmaker Niles has also made a significant impact in the realm of short filmmaking, partnering with fellow creative minds Cristóbal León and Joaquín Cociña to co-direct a duo of captivating short films, Lucia, Luis y el Lobo.