Biographie
Matthew Silva is a filmmaker, director, actor, producer, and editor whose journey from humble beginnings to international recognition is a story of grit, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of storytelling. Born and raised in the heart of New York City, Matthew has faced unimaginable hardships, but through it all, his passion for film and his desire to inspire others have propelled him to incredible heights. With over 100 films under his belt-including major network television projects, critically acclaimed independent films, feature films, web series, and pilots-Matthew's career is a testament to the power of perseverance and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams.
Matthew was born in 1999 in Queens, New York, but spent much of his childhood in the working-class neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Raised by two immigrant parents who worked tirelessly to make ends meet, Matthew's early life was anything but easy. His family struggled to provide for him, and they lived in constant uncertainty. Moving from one borough to another, never staying in one place long enough to settle, Matthew learned resilience from an early age. He never had the luxury of comfort or stability, but it was precisely this hardship that shaped his unyielding character and his belief that success isn't handed to anyone-it must be earned, fought for, and created from the ground up.
Matthew's passion for filmmaking began at a young age. From the time he was eight years old, he had a camera in his hand, creating short videos and telling stories. The Lord of the Rings trilogy became his early inspiration, igniting a deep love for cinematic storytelling that would follow him throughout his life. In those films, Matthew saw more than just grand battles and magical creatures; he saw a world of possibility-one that he could bring to life with his own vision. As a child, Matthew dreamed of making films that could transport audiences to other worlds, just as The Lord of the Rings had done for him. But he also knew that such dreams would not come easy. No one was going to hand him a shot. If he wanted to make it in the film industry, he would have to create his own path.
At just 15 years old, Matthew founded his first production company, Ryanium Films (pronounced "Rain-ium"), on July 11, 2016. With limited resources but an abundance of ambition, he began shooting short films, music videos, and commercials, all while juggling school and the challenges of adolescence. At the time, Matthew didn't have the industry connections or the financial backing that most filmmakers rely on, but he had something more valuable: a relentless drive to succeed and a vision that no obstacle could dim. In 2021, at the age of 21, Matthew expanded his reach by founding Silva Pictures, his second production company. But his entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there-Matthew owns and operates several ventures in the film industry, further expanding his creative footprint.
As Matthew's portfolio grew, so did his reputation. His films began to gain recognition at prestigious international festivals and events, where his work was praised for its raw authenticity, emotional depth, and compelling narratives. His biggest projects, such as Bronx Unit Undercover Files, I Got Now, and Intense Battles Reloaded, have premiered at some of the world's most respected festivals, including those curated by Warner Media, founded by Warner Bros. These films not only captured audiences' attention but also solidified Matthew as an award-winning filmmaker with over 60 credited film accolades worldwide.
His work speaks for itself, and the accolades he's garnered are a reflection of his dedication to excellence. But for Matthew, awards and recognition are not the ultimate goal-making a difference in the lives of others is. While many filmmakers claim to support the underdog, Matthew stands apart in an industry often criticized for its cutthroat nature and competitive spirit. He is not just another filmmaker looking to elevate his own career at the expense of others. In an era where many self-proclaimed "indie filmmakers" promise to help others, all too often they end up pushing the little guy down to further their own rise. But Matthew is different. He has dedicated his career to genuinely lifting others up, offering mentorship, resources, and guidance to aspiring filmmakers and creatives, particularly those from underserved communities.
In an industry that often prioritizes self-interest over collaboration, Matthew stands as a beacon of authenticity and humility. He understands firsthand how difficult it is to break into the film world, and he is committed to making sure that others who share his passion for storytelling have a chance to thrive. Whether it's through offering opportunities on his own projects or by teaching aspiring filmmakers how to build their own paths, Matthew's mission is to create a space where the underdogs can rise together. His belief in empowering others is one of the cornerstones of his career, and it's something that fuels every project he touches.
In addition to his commitment to his community, Matthew has always viewed filmmaking as a deeply personal journey-a way to cope with life's struggles and to make sense of the world around him. The faith he has in God plays a central role in his creative process, and he has always believed that his work is a reflection of a higher purpose. Filmmaking is his way of processing the world's challenges, finding meaning in moments of pain, and sharing those stories with the world. It's a tool that has helped him navigate life's most difficult times, and it's a message that resonates in his films.
Today, Matthew Silva is not just a filmmaker; he is a leader in his industry, a mentor to those starting out, and an example of what it means to truly follow one's passion. He has defied the odds, built a successful career from scratch, and continues to rise as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary cinema. His journey-from a young boy with a dream in Brooklyn to an award-winning filmmaker with a global audience-proves that no matter where you come from, you can make your mark on the world if you never stop believing in your dreams.
Matthew's story is just beginning. With every film he creates, every person he helps, and every story he tells, he is leaving an indelible mark on the film industry-one that will inspire generations of filmmakers to come. Matthew Silva is the real deal. His accolades and accomplishments are hard-earned, his journey is far from over, and his commitment to changing the game is unwavering.
