An acclaimed filmmaker, he grew up on a small farm in Arkansas, which deeply influenced his storytelling. He pursued a degree in biology at Yale University before shifting to film studies at the University of Utah. His debut feature, "Munyurangabo," premiered at Cannes in 2007, earning critical praise. His most celebrated work, "Minari," released in 2020, is a semi-autobiographical tale that garnered multiple awards, including an Oscar nomination, highlighting his talent for intimate, personal narratives.