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Chris Grant Wenchell, an actor, producer, and creative entrepreneur, has launched XXII Pictures—a new independent film and television production company dedicated to emotionally grounded, genre-bending storytelling. With a clear focus on authenticity, craft, and purpose, XXII Pictures seeks to reimagine what powerful, performance-driven cinema can look like outside the traditional studio system.
Wenchell’s vision for the company is rooted in his experience as a working actor and his desire to take greater ownership of the creative process. Over the years, he noticed a lack of representation and emotional nuance in certain genres, sparking his commitment to developing stories that speak to real human experience.
“XXII Pictures was never about chasing trends,” Wenchell shares. “It’s about telling stories that push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and offer something emotionally honest.”
The company will focus on producing original content across genres such as psychological thrillers, grounded drama, and speculative sci-fi. What unites each project is an emphasis on character depth, narrative intention, and thematic resonance—aiming to deliver cinema that is both intimate and expansive.
Wenchell’s journey from actor to filmmaker was shaped by a combination of industry experience and creative ambition. Rather than replicate studio formulas, he founded XXII Pictures as a space for innovation and integrity—one that prioritizes collaboration, performance, and a sense of purpose.
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Each project is guided by three core values: performance, purpose, and perspective. These principles influence casting, direction, and story development, helping ensure that every piece of content is intentional and impactful.Unlike many production companies that rely solely on investor funding, XXII Pictures is building a sustainable model through diversified support, including creative partnerships, independent outreach, and brand extensions. Wenchell is also the author of the book “Finance Your Own Film for Filmmakers on a Budget,” available on Amazon, which offers practical tools and insights for aspiring filmmakers looking to fund and produce their own work without relying on traditional gatekeepers. He is also the founder of VitaFit Performance, a mindset-driven fitness supplement brand that reflects his values of discipline, resilience, and personal accountability. This approach reflects the company’s core values of ownership, resourcefulness, and creative freedom.
Wenchell’s previous independent film, The Son Rises, received positive recognition and helped solidify his vision for a company dedicated to bold storytelling. XXII Pictures is now actively developing several new original properties for future release, aimed at both festival circuits and streaming platforms.
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At its core, the company was created to amplify voices and stories that often go unheard—fostering representation and resilience within the film community.“I launched XXII Pictures because I wanted to create something honest,” Wenchell says. “Now, I want to use that space to uplift other voices and share stories that matter.”
With a strong foundation and a clear artistic mission, XXII Pictures is positioning itself as a rising force in the independent filmmaking world—bringing depth, vision, and innovation to every story it tells.
For more information about XXII Pictures and upcoming projects, visit XXIIPictures.com
Follow XXII Pictures on Instagram: @xxii_pictures
Read the book: “Finance Your Own Film for Filmmakers on a Budget” is available now on Amazon—a practical guide for creators looking to take control of their filmmaking journey.
Connect with Chris Grant Wenchell: chrisgrantwenchell.com
Instagram: @ChrisGrantW
IMDb: Chris Grant Wenchell on IMDb
Explore Chris Grant Wenchell’s fitness brand: VitaFitPerformance.com