tao/s Signs to Rattling Stick

Brothers Aaron & Winston Tao are a Chinese-American writing and directing duo based in LA.

Known for their emotionally compelling and humanistic approach, their films have a powerful narrative and visual style that tends to highlight social issues and causes. Their award-winning short film ‘Sleep Well, My Baby’, based on the harrowing reality of human trafficking along the Chinese/North Korean border, follows the incredible journey of a refugee who's had everything taken from her and will go to desperate measures to get it back. It has earned them shortlists and wins at Cannes YDA, Kinsale, Webby and more. 

Masters of natural dialogue, many of tao/s’ films feature fictional narratives they’ve written, based on true stories. Additionally, the pair gained an understanding of directing actors and real people thanks to a few years spent as actors in California.

In the commercial world they are known for bringing heart and depth, particularly to the automotive sector, with brands including Volvo, Ford and Ram. Other clients include Teva, Liberty In North Korea, and Helen Bamber Foundation.

Rattling Stick founder and executive producer, Johnnie Frankel comments: “Not only do Aaron and Winston have this natural ability to depict purposeful, moving stories, they’re top guys too. We’re glad to have them with us here in the UK and are looking forward to creating some epic work together.”

On joining Rattling Stick, tao/s comment: “Ringan was, undoubtedly, one of the industry’s Giants. He was a true artist that turned both heads and hearts, so we’re incredibly humbled and honored to be a part of Rattling Stick. We’ve been huge fans of their work since we first started in commercials, so to be rostered with such a reputable and prestigious company as this is a dream of ours. The level of depth, detail, and creativity in the talent across the board is truly invigorating. Very excited for this next season.” 

The pair are in development for their first feature, ‘Goodbye, Hurricane’, which is an Academy Nicholls semi-finalist, is Black List recommended, and is part of the Black List x CAPE 2021 fellowship.