DR NIKKI COMNINOS (SAGE)
Editor - Director - occasional Academic
Hi, I'm Nikki - a South African director and editor with 20 years of experience crafting complex stories into compelling television. My recent work includes Showmax's record-breaking true crime series Tracking Thabo Bester and the 2024 SAFTA-nominated Convict Conman. In November, my next series launches: Unspoken War, a five-part historical documentary series that explores the conflicts in South Africa, Angola, and Namibia from the 1960s to 1990s and the legacy that lingers today.
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​I'm drawn to work that challenges perceptions (mine and that of the audience) and to collaborating with teams who share curiosity, integrity, and a commitment to the craft of filmmaking. I believe the best documentaries emerge from creative problem-solving and a willingness to follow the story where it leads.
In 2022 I was recognised by the American Cinema Editors (ACE) in their International Partnership, and have held the South African Editors Guild (SAGE) acronym for distinguished editors since 2014. I am on the executive board of the South African Guild of Editors, a Documentary Filmmakers South Africa member and a Berlinale Talent alumnus.
Whether directing or editing, I'm a story doctor at heart. I work across all production phases - from early conceptualisation and research through to final delivery - with particular expertise in long-form and multi-episode series. During my career, I have earned the nickname comrade supercuts :)
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Beyond production, I have a strong academic background giving me a critical thinking approach to my work. In 2015 I completed my Ph.D. focusing on home video, personal history and memory. I work at institutions like Wits University, Open Window, Botswana Ignite and AFDA. I was also the training manager for Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking. I am a published author in filmmaking journals. ​
