An American film director and screenwriter, he gained recognition with the 2003 thriller "Open Water," which was inspired by true events and shot with a low budget yet achieved critical acclaim for its intense realism. He often collaborates with his wife, Laura Lau, who co-produces and co-writes many of his projects. Known for his skill in creating tension and suspense, he later directed "Silent House" in 2011, a horror film noted for its unique single-take approach.