Born in New Zealand, Tristan started shooting films at age 14. His first industry job was working for Lucasfilm on MGM's Willow aged 20. Straight after, he entered the country's top film school, where he studied writing and directing under top lecturers and speakers including Peter Jackson.
On leaving film school, Tristan directed short films and clips while writing spec screenplays and working for some of NZ's top producers. At 25 he was selected to direct for high profile production company Kino Montage. Tristan quickly became one of the country's most sought after directors, crafting spots for such clients as Coca-Cola and Sony. After two years as New Zealand's youngest director, Tristan was headhunted to Australia. With Sydney as his base, he went on to direct TVCs in Singapore, Miami and London.
Cut to a decade later and Tristan has directed award-winning TVCs in many of the 12 countries he has shot in. He has also been privileged to have shot with heads of departments who have worked with Ridley & Tony, Bay, Kubrick and Fincher. In 2002 Tristan directed the high concept FX short film The Gateway To Hell. Tristan has written or co-written 16 screenplays to date and favors studio-styled franchise friendly product. He is based in Hong Kong and focused on Chinese film finance and material for the booming market.