Born in Vancouver, Canada, he was a passionate film enthusiast who co-founded the Seattle International Film Festival in 1976. Transitioning to filmmaking, he made his directorial debut with "The Whole Wide World" in 1996, which received critical acclaim. Known for his focus on character-driven stories, he directed films like "The Velocity of Gary" and "Jolene." His work often highlighted nuanced performances and heartfelt narratives, leaving a lasting impact on independent cinema.