After starting out as a Runner, Rumley began writing short and feature scripts, including Club Le Monde, after which he invited onto the Carlton Television Writing Course. After writing and directing four short films including 'Laughter' which was nominated for a 'Dick Award' at London's ICA, Rumley wrote, produced and directed Strong Language, which was picked up by the company Stranger Than Fiction. Seen as a promising young film maker, he was invited to Austria by the European Film Academy and in 1999 wrote, produced and directed The Truth Game. Both this and Strong Language, were released through the BFI at London's National Film Theatre, both films being noted for their 'intensity and a quest for emotional honesty'