Born in Massachusetts, he is an American actor, writer, director, and producer known for his work in independent cinema. He gained recognition for his role as Ray Ploshansky on the HBO series "Girls." He studied visual ethnography at the University of Oxford and began his career with the film "The Hole Story." He has directed several independent films and appeared in projects such as "Inside Llewyn Davis" and the "Coen Brothers" film. His work often explores themes of identity and relationships.