An American film director and screenwriter, he is best known for his distinct and avant-garde style. He gained critical acclaim with his 1990 experimental film "Begotten," which is noted for its stark imagery and lack of dialogue. He further cemented his reputation with "Shadow of the Vampire" (2000), a fictionalized account of the making of the 1922 classic "Nosferatu," earning several award nominations. His work often explores themes of creation, destruction, and transformation.