Michael Polish

Michael Polish is a prolific and acclaimed American film director, writer, and producer. His breakout feature debut, Twin Falls Idaho (1998), was acclaimed by Roger Ebert as “one of the best films of the year” for its striking originality and emotional depth. From this start, Michael continued to collaborate with his brother, Mark, crafting an eclectic mix of visionary films. His works include Northfork (2003), a visually poetic tale starring Nick Nolte and James Woods, and The Astronaut Farmer, a studio production with Billy Bob Thornton and Virginia Madsen. His 2013 adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s Big Sur was praised by The New York Times for “cracking the code” of adapting a novel for the screen. Michael’s passion for independent storytelling also led to the creation of the 10-episode series Bring on the Dancing Horses, a bold modern Western about a hit woman’s journey for justice. Most recently, Michael directed Alarum, an action-packed thriller starring Sylvester Stallone, Scott Eastwood, and Willa Fitzgerald, about two spies on the run. Michael has also authored books, including The Declaration of Independent Filmmaking, and is a respected photographer and advocate for independent film. (Photo courtesy of Lionsgate.)