U.K. rapper Stormzy has officially launched #Merky Films and unveiled the company’s debut project, Big Man.
The British musician, whose real name is Michael Omari, has teamed up with Apple to produce a short film shot entirely on an iPhone 16 Pro. Big Man is directed by Aneil Karia and stars Stormzy in his first-ever lead acting role.
The short tells the poignant, fictional story of Tenzman, a former rap star now navigating a restless and uncertain chapter of his life.
“When two mischievous young boys — Klevis and Tyrell — unexpectedly enter into his carefully guarded world, the unlikely trio forge a transformative bond, one that awakens Tenzman’s dormant musical passion, impulsive joy and fragile optimism,” a plot synopsis reads. “Blending humour, vulnerability and quiet transformation, the film thoughtfully explores themes of reconnecting with your younger self and embracing gratitude.”
Building on the momentum of his other ventures such as #Merky Books, the #Merky Foundation and #Merky Football Club, the new enterprise marks the singer-songwriter’s entry into the world of film and television.
#Merky Films is also developing a drama series and seminal biopic, the company said on Thursday, as well as documentaries, an animation project and a new-age mockumentary.
“I always say: music is my first love, but film is my second,” Stormzy said. “#Merky Films is something I’ve been dreaming about for ages — a space for powerful British stories and a solid home for fresh, unexpected art. It’s a natural next step for everything we do at #Merky — sharing our stories, spotlighting important voices and making room for those who deserve to be seen and heard.”
He continued: “I hope you love our first project, Big Man, as much as we loved making it. For me, it’s all about the joy, spirit and fearless energy of youth; that feeling like life is one big adventure and the world’s your playground. I hope it inspires you to dream bigger, live louder and hold on to that unapologetic energy that comes with being young.”
