Legendary director David Mackenzie has joined the UNLV Department of Film adding to the department’s roster of industry professionals and deepening the connection between academic training and real-world filmmaking.

Best known for directing the Academy Award-nominated HELL OR HIGH WATER (2016), starring Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges, Mackenzie joins UNLV Film to mentor and teach the next generation of filmmakers. His upcoming feature FUZE, starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, and Sam Worthington, is set for U.S. theatrical release this spring after premiering at TIFF in 2025. 

The announcement was celebrated during UNLV Film’s “Celebrating Sundance” panel and mixer at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, marking the department’s continued presence at the festival over the past decade.

Mackenzie’s recent directing credits also include OUTLAW KING (2018), starring Chris Pine, Florence Pugh and Aaron Taylor Johnson; RELAY (2024), starring Riz Ahmed, Lily James, and Sam Worthington; STARRED UP (2013), starring Jack O’Connell and Ben Mendelsohn; YOUNG ADAM (2003), starring Ewan McGregor and Tilda Swinton; and HALLAM FOE (2007), starring Jamie Bell. His work has been recognized for numerous
awards and accolades, with HELL OR HIGH WATER being nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Up next for Mackenzie is his latest feature film, FUZE (2026), starring Aaron Taylor Johnson, Theo James and Sam Worthington. Mackenzie is also the co-founder of the Glasgow-based production company Sigma Films.

Mackenzie will be teaching film directing in the Bachelor of Arts program of the Department of Film, which allows students to learn the foundations of visual storytelling. Students are challenged through innovative training in directing, screenwriting, cinematography techniques, and
emerging tools. To learn more about studying with the UNLV Department of Film with Professor Mackenzie and other entertainment industry professionals, visit our Undergrad webpage.