Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, he is a versatile artist known for his intense performances both in front of and behind the camera. Initially gaining fame as an actor with roles in films like "Gladiator" and "A Beautiful Mind," he later expanded his career into directing. His directorial debut came with "The Water Diviner" in 2014, showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives. He continues to explore storytelling through various cinematic projects.