Born in Glendale, Arizona, and raised in Preston, Idaho, this filmmaker gained prominence with the 2004 cult classic "Napoleon Dynamite," which he co-wrote with his wife, Jerusha. He studied film at Brigham Young University, where he made shorts that laid the groundwork for his feature debut. Known for his quirky and offbeat comedic style, he continued to direct films like "Nacho Libre" and "Gentlemen Broncos." His work often features eccentric characters and a distinctive visual flair.