Born in Arkansas, he is an American film director, screenwriter, and producer known for his work in family and adventure genres. He studied at Columbia University, where he earned an MFA in Film. Early in his career, he gained recognition with "End of the Line," which he wrote and directed. He is best known for directing films like "My Dog Skip," "Tuck Everlasting," and "Ladder 49." His storytelling often emphasizes emotional depth and character-driven narratives, appealing to audiences of all ages.