Thérèse DePrez

Biography

Thérèse DePrez, an exceptionally talented American production designer, left an indelible mark on the world of cinema during her illustrious career. Born and raised in Rochester, New York, she was the daughter of Gene and Patricia DePrez. Drawing inspiration from visionary filmmakers like Jean Cocteau and Georges Melies, as well as iconic films such as "Dr. Strangelove" and "Blade Runner," DePrez's creative journey began to take shape.

During her time at the Parsons School of Design in New York City, DePrez honed her craft and gained valuable experience working on off-Broadway stage productions. Her big break came in 1991 when she landed her first film assignment on "The Refrigerator," marking the beginning of a remarkable career in the film industry.

DePrez's impressive body of work included notable films like "Arlington Road," "High Fidelity," "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," "Dark Water," "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium," and "Fighting." However, it was her exceptional work on the 2010 Darren Aronofsky thriller "Black Swan" that truly showcased her talent and garnered critical acclaim.

Collaborating with Aronofsky on "Black Swan" was a career-defining moment for DePrez, earning her an Art Directors Guild Award and a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Production Design. Her meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to set design captivated audiences and solidified her reputation as a top-tier production designer in the industry.

Beyond her work in film, DePrez also made significant contributions to the music world, designing the set for David Bowie's A Reality Tour in 2003. Her multifaceted talents and creative vision transcended mediums, leaving a lasting impact on every project she touched.

In 2015, DePrez faced a challenging battle with breast cancer, demonstrating courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite her initial victory over the disease in 2016, she tragically passed away on December 19, 2017, at the age of 52. Her legacy lives on through her groundbreaking work and the profound influence she had on the world of production design.

Thérèse DePrez's contributions to the film industry were honored at the 90th Academy Awards, where she was remembered in the annual In Memoriam segment. Additionally, the 2019 film "The Lodge" paid tribute to her legacy with a heartfelt "Special Thanks" message in the closing credits, ensuring that her creative spirit continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers and artists.