An American filmmaker known for his distinctive style, he emerged in the 1990s with a trilogy of witty, dialogue-driven films exploring the lives and social dynamics of the urban haute bourgeoisie. His debut, "Metropolitan," gained critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. He continued with "Barcelona" and "The Last Days of Disco," maintaining his reputation for sharp, literate storytelling. After a hiatus, he returned with "Damsels in Distress" and explored television.