Born in Venezuela, he is a renowned filmmaker known for tackling socially relevant themes. He gained international recognition with "Secuestro Express" (2005), a gritty depiction of urban crime in Caracas. His work often explores issues of identity and survival, as seen in "Hands of Stone" (2016), which chronicles the life of boxer Roberto Durán. He continued to explore historical narratives with "Resistance" (2020), highlighting the role of mime artist Marcel Marceau during WWII. His films are marked by their intense storytelling and cultural depth.