Matthew O'Neill

Matthew O'Neill is an American documentary filmmaker and director known for his award-winning works that delve into powerful, often untold stories from around the world. O'Neill is perhaps best recognized for co-creating the influential news documentary series "Axios," alongside Perri Peltz. Aired on HBO, the series is renowned for its collaborative approach with journalists from Axios, covering contemporary political, business, and cultural topics with a sharp, insightful perspective. O'Neill's other major works for HBO include "15: A Quinceañera Story," "Redemption," "China’s Unnatural Disaster," "In Tahrir Square," "Section 60: Arlington National Cemetery," and "Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq," each exploring diverse and poignant subjects with emotional depth and journalistic integrity.

One of O'Neill's most notable contributions to documentary filmmaking is the 2006 HBO film "Baghdad ER," which provides an intimate and harrowing look at the lives of U.S. soldiers and medical personnel in a military hospital during the Iraq War. This groundbreaking documentary earned O'Neill multiple prestigious awards, including a Columbia duPont Award, a Peabody Award, an Overseas Press Club Award, and three Primetime Emmy Awards. The film's unflinching portrayal of the realities of war was widely acclaimed for its authenticity and emotional resonance. In addition to his work with HBO, O'Neill's films have aired on major platforms such as PBS’s "Frontline," ESPN, Netflix, Channel 4, NHK, and various other global broadcasters, further solidifying his impact on the documentary world.

O'Neill's commitment to storytelling extends beyond filmmaking. He participated in the 2019 Aspen Ideas Festival, where he engaged in discussions about "Alternate Endings: Six New Ways to Die in America," a documentary exploring the complexities of end-of-life care. He also provided audiences with a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective on "Axios" on HBO. These contributions highlight O'Neill's ongoing dedication to exploring critical social issues and providing a voice to those whose stories might otherwise go unheard. Through his distinguished career, Matthew O'Neill continues to be a vital figure in the documentary filmmaking landscape, recognized for his dedication to truth, empathy, and impactful storytelling.