An American film director, producer, and screenwriter, he rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. He studied at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts and the AFI Conservatory. His early success came with the comedy "Beverly Hills Cop," which became a massive hit. Known for a blend of action and humor, his other notable works include "Midnight Run," "Scent of a Woman," which earned critical acclaim and an Oscar for Al Pacino, and "Meet Joe Black."