An American film director, producer, and screenwriter, he gained recognition in the 1980s for his work on edgy, character-driven films. He made his directorial debut with "Reckless" in 1984 and achieved critical acclaim with "At Close Range" in 1986. His repertoire includes a mix of genres, from dramas like "Glengarry Glen Ross" to thrillers such as "Fear." In recent years, he directed installments of the "Fifty Shades" series, showcasing his versatility in both independent and mainstream cinema.