Barry Sonnenfeld

Barry Sonnenfeld

Born:April 1, 1953

Place of Birth:New York City, New York, USA

Known For:Directing

Biography

Barry Sonnenfeld, born on April 1, 1953, is a visionary American filmmaker and television director whose unique style has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Before stepping into the director's chair, Sonnenfeld honed his craft as a cinematographer, collaborating with acclaimed filmmakers like the Coen Brothers. His keen eye for visual storytelling and innovative camera work set him apart from his peers, foreshadowing the cinematic brilliance he would later bring to his own projects.

In the realm of big-budget blockbusters, Sonnenfeld made a name for himself with his iconic work on the "Men in Black" franchise. His ability to seamlessly blend action, humor, and visual effects catapulted the films to international success, earning him a reputation as a master of the genre. Through his directorial vision, Sonnenfeld brought to life a world where aliens and secret agents coexist in a seamless blend of sci-fi and comedy.

Beyond his work on the silver screen, Sonnenfeld has also made significant contributions to the world of television, directing episodes of popular series that showcase his versatility as a storyteller. His knack for creating compelling narratives and captivating visuals has earned him a dedicated following of fans who eagerly anticipate his next project. Sonnenfeld's ability to balance spectacle with heart and humor has solidified his status as a true auteur in the entertainment industry.

Throughout his career, Sonnenfeld has demonstrated a fearless approach to filmmaking, unafraid to push boundaries and challenge conventions. His distinctive visual style, characterized by bold compositions and dynamic camera movements, has become synonymous with his name, setting him apart as a true visionary in the field. With each project, Sonnenfeld continues to captivate audiences with his unique storytelling voice and unparalleled creativity.

As a director, producer, and cinematographer, Sonnenfeld's impact on the world of cinema is undeniable. His ability to craft immersive worlds and compelling characters has earned him critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying his legacy as a true pioneer of modern filmmaking. Whether exploring the depths of space or the quirks of everyday life, Sonnenfeld's films resonate with audiences on a profound level, showcasing his talent for blending spectacle with substance.

In addition to his work behind the camera, Sonnenfeld is also known for his sharp wit and infectious sense of humor, making him a beloved figure both on and off set. His charismatic personality and playful approach to filmmaking have endeared him to colleagues and fans alike, creating a collaborative and engaging environment on his productions. Sonnenfeld's passion for storytelling shines through in every frame, making each project a labor of love and a testament to his creative vision.

As a trailblazer in the industry, Sonnenfeld has inspired a new generation of filmmakers to embrace innovation and originality in their work. His fearless pursuit of artistic excellence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling have left an indelible impact on the world of cinema, cementing his legacy as a true visionary. With each new project, Sonnenfeld continues to captivate audiences and push the limits of what is possible on screen, solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.

In a career spanning decades, Barry Sonnenfeld has proven himself to be a true maestro of the silver screen, crafting unforgettable cinematic experiences that resonate with audiences around the globe. His ability to seamlessly blend genres, create memorable characters, and transport viewers to fantastical worlds sets him apart as a true artist in the realm of filmmaking. With each new project, Sonnenfeld continues to captivate and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the landscape of cinema for years to come.

Images

Barry Sonnenfeld
Barry Sonnenfeld
Barry Sonnenfeld
Barry Sonnenfeld
Barry Sonnenfeld
Barry Sonnenfeld

Filmography

Acting

Men in Black

Men in Black

Alien on TV Monitor (uncredited)

1997

After a police chase with an otherworldly being, a New York City cop is recruited as an agent in a top-secret organization established to monitor and police alien activity on Earth: the Men in Black. Agent K and new recruit Agent J find themselves in the middle of a deadly plot by an intergalactic terrorist who has arrived on Earth to assassinate two ambassadors from opposing galaxies.
Men in Black 3

Men in Black 3

Husband Watching Launch

2012

Agents J and K are back...in time. J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when K's life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told him - secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K to save his partner, the agency, and the future of humankind.
Addams Family Values

Addams Family Values

Mr. Glicker

1993

Siblings Wednesday and Pugsley Addams will stop at nothing to get rid of Pubert, the new baby boy adored by parents Gomez and Morticia. Things go from bad to worse when the new "black widow" nanny, Debbie Jellinsky, launches her plan to add Fester to her collection of dead husbands.
Men in Black II

Men in Black II

Neuralyzed Father

2002

Kay and Jay reunite to provide our best, last and only line of defense against a sinister seductress who levels the toughest challenge yet to the MIB's untarnished mission statement – protecting Earth from the scum of the universe. It's been four years since the alien-seeking agents averted an intergalactic disaster of epic proportions. Now it's a race against the clock as Jay must convince Kay – who not only has absolutely no memory of his time spent with the MIB, but is also the only living person left with the expertise to save the galaxy – to reunite with the MIB before the earth submits to ultimate destruction.
RV

RV

Irv

2006

Climbing aboard their mammoth recreational vehicle for a cross-country road trip to the Colorado Rockies, the Munro family – led by dysfunctional patriarch, Bob – prepares for the adventure of a lifetime. But spending two weeks together in one seriously small space has a way of cramping their style.
Get Shorty

Get Shorty

Doorman

1995

Chili Palmer is a Miami mobster who gets sent by his boss, the psychopathic "Bones" Barboni, to collect a bad debt from Harry Zimm, a Hollywood producer who specializes in cheesy horror films. When Chili meets Harry's leading lady, the romantic sparks fly. After pitching his own life story as a movie idea, Chili learns that being a mobster and being a Hollywood producer really aren't all that different.
Barton Fink

Barton Fink

Page Calling for Barton Fink (uncredited)

1991

A renowned New York playwright is enticed to California to write for the movies and discovers the hellish truth of Hollywood.
Nine Lives

Nine Lives

Cat (voice)

2016

A stuffy businessman finds himself trapped inside the body of his family's cat.
Blood Simple

Blood Simple

Marty's Vomiting (voice) (uncredited)

1984

The owner of a seedy small-town Texas bar discovers that one of his employees is having an affair with his wife. A chaotic chain of misunderstandings, lies and mischief ensues after he devises a plot to have them murdered.
Big Trouble

Big Trouble

Confused Sports Radio Call In (voice)

2002

The story of how a mysterious suitcase brings together, and changes, the lives of a divorced dad, an unhappy housewife, two hitmen, a pair of street thugs, two love struck teens, two FBI men and a psychedelic toad. Based on Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist Dave Barry's best-selling first novel, "Big Trouble."

Production

Men in Black

Men in Black

Director

1997

After a police chase with an otherworldly being, a New York City cop is recruited as an agent in a top-secret organization established to monitor and police alien activity on Earth: the Men in Black. Agent K and new recruit Agent J find themselves in the middle of a deadly plot by an intergalactic terrorist who has arrived on Earth to assassinate two ambassadors from opposing galaxies.
Men in Black 3

Men in Black 3

Director

2012

Agents J and K are back...in time. J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when K's life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told him - secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K to save his partner, the agency, and the future of humankind.
Enchanted

Enchanted

Producer

2007

The beautiful princess Giselle is banished by an evil queen from her magical, musical animated land and finds herself in the gritty reality of the streets of modern-day Manhattan. Shocked by this strange new environment that doesn't operate on a "happily ever after" basis, Giselle is now adrift in a chaotic world badly in need of enchantment. But when Giselle begins to fall in love with a charmingly flawed divorce lawyer who has come to her aid - even though she is already promised to a perfect fairy tale prince back home - she has to wonder: Can a storybook view of romance survive in the real world?
The Addams Family

The Addams Family

Director

1991

When a man claiming to be long-lost Uncle Fester reappears after 25 years lost, the family plans a celebration to wake the dead. But the kids barely have time to warm up the electric chair before Morticia begins to suspect Fester is fraud when he can't recall any of the details of Fester's life.
Addams Family Values

Addams Family Values

Director

1993

Siblings Wednesday and Pugsley Addams will stop at nothing to get rid of Pubert, the new baby boy adored by parents Gomez and Morticia. Things go from bad to worse when the new "black widow" nanny, Debbie Jellinsky, launches her plan to add Fester to her collection of dead husbands.
Men in Black II

Men in Black II

Director

2002

Kay and Jay reunite to provide our best, last and only line of defense against a sinister seductress who levels the toughest challenge yet to the MIB's untarnished mission statement – protecting Earth from the scum of the universe. It's been four years since the alien-seeking agents averted an intergalactic disaster of epic proportions. Now it's a race against the clock as Jay must convince Kay – who not only has absolutely no memory of his time spent with the MIB, but is also the only living person left with the expertise to save the galaxy – to reunite with the MIB before the earth submits to ultimate destruction.
Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events

Executive Producer

2004

Three wealthy children's parents are killed in a fire. When they are sent to a distant relative, they find out that he is plotting to kill them and seize their fortune.
Big

Big

Director of Photography

1988

When a young boy makes a wish at a carnival machine to be big—he wakes up the following morning to find that it has been granted and his body has grown older overnight. But he is still the same 13-year-old boy inside. Now he must learn how to cope with the unfamiliar world of grown-ups including getting a job and having his first romantic encounter with a woman.
Men in Black: International

Men in Black: International

Executive Producer

2019

The Men in Black have always protected the Earth from the scum of the universe. In this new adventure, they tackle their biggest, most global threat to date: a mole in the Men in Black organization.
RV

RV

Director

2006

Climbing aboard their mammoth recreational vehicle for a cross-country road trip to the Colorado Rockies, the Munro family – led by dysfunctional patriarch, Bob – prepares for the adventure of a lifetime. But spending two weeks together in one seriously small space has a way of cramping their style.
Misery

Misery

Second Unit Director

1990

After an accident, acclaimed novelist Paul Sheldon is rescued by a nurse who claims to be his biggest fan. Her obsession takes a dark turn when she holds him captive in her remote Colorado home and forces him to write back to life the popular literary character he killed off.
When Harry Met Sally...

When Harry Met Sally...

Director of Photography

1989

During their travel from Chicago to New York, Harry and Sally debate whether or not sex ruins a friendship between a man and a woman. Eleven years later, and they're still no closer to finding the answer.
Out of Sight

Out of Sight

Executive Producer

1998

Meet Jack Foley, a smooth criminal who bends the law and is determined to make one last heist. Karen Sisco is a federal marshal who chooses all the right moves … and all the wrong guys. Now they're willing to risk it all to find out if there's more between them than just the law.
Wild Wild West

Wild Wild West

Producer

1999

Legless Southern inventor Dr. Arliss Loveless plans to rekindle the Civil War by assassinating President Ulysses S. Grant. Only two men can stop him: gunfighter James West and master-of-disguise and inventor Artemus Gordon. The two must team up to thwart Loveless' plans.
Get Shorty

Get Shorty

Executive Producer

1995

Chili Palmer is a Miami mobster who gets sent by his boss, the psychopathic "Bones" Barboni, to collect a bad debt from Harry Zimm, a Hollywood producer who specializes in cheesy horror films. When Chili meets Harry's leading lady, the romantic sparks fly. After pitching his own life story as a movie idea, Chili learns that being a mobster and being a Hollywood producer really aren't all that different.
Disenchanted

Disenchanted

Producer

2022

Disillusioned with life in the city, feeling out of place in suburbia, and frustrated that her happily ever after hasn’t been so easy to find, Giselle turns to the magic of Andalasia for help. Accidentally transforming the entire town into a real-life fairy tale and placing her family’s future happiness in jeopardy, she must race against time to reverse the spell and determine what happily ever after truly means to her and her family.
Raising Arizona

Raising Arizona

Director of Photography

1987

When a childless couple--an ex-con and an ex-cop--decide to help themselves to one of another family's quintuplets, their lives become more complicated than they anticipated.
Miller's Crossing

Miller's Crossing

Camera Operator

1990

Set in 1929, a political boss and his advisor have a parting of the ways when they both fall for the same woman.
The Ladykillers

The Ladykillers

Producer

2004

An eccentric, if not charming Southern professor and his crew pose as a band in order to rob a casino, all under the nose of his unsuspecting landlord – a sharp old woman.
Nine Lives

Nine Lives

Director

2016

A stuffy businessman finds himself trapped inside the body of his family's cat.
Blood Simple

Blood Simple

Director of Photography

1984

The owner of a seedy small-town Texas bar discovers that one of his employees is having an affair with his wife. A chaotic chain of misunderstandings, lies and mischief ensues after he devises a plot to have them murdered.
Big Trouble

Big Trouble

Director

2002

The story of how a mysterious suitcase brings together, and changes, the lives of a divorced dad, an unhappy housewife, two hitmen, a pair of street thugs, two love struck teens, two FBI men and a psychedelic toad. Based on Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist Dave Barry's best-selling first novel, "Big Trouble."
Throw Momma from the Train

Throw Momma from the Train

Director of Photography

1987

Larry Donner, an author with a cruel ex-wife, teaches a writing workshop in which one of his students, Owen, is fed up with his domineering mother. When Owen watches a Hitchcock classic that seems to mirror his own life, he decides to put the movie's plot into action and offers to kill Larry's ex-wife, if Larry promises to murder his mom. Before Larry gets a chance to react to the plan, it seems that Owen has already set things in motion.