An acclaimed American film director, she is known for her collaborative work with Ryan Fleck. She gained recognition with films like "Half Nelson," which earned critical praise for its raw storytelling. Her directorial style often explores themes of identity and redemption. She co-directed "Sugar" and "Mississippi Grind," showcasing her ability to blend drama with nuanced character studies. She made history by co-directing Marvel's "Captain Marvel," one of the first female-led superhero films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.