Born in 1946 in Paris, this prominent French film director spent much of her childhood in Africa due to her father's colonial administration career. She studied at the IDHEC film school and began her career as an assistant director for Wim Wenders and Jim Jarmusch. Her films often explore themes of colonialism, immigration, and identity, with notable works including "Beau Travail" and "Chocolat." Her style is characterized by its atmospheric quality and nuanced portrayal of human relationships.