Guy Maddin

Guy Maddin CM OM (born February 28, 1956) is a multifaceted Canadian artist known for his distinctive contribution to film making. He has an extensive portfolio as a screenwriter, director, author, cinematographer, and film editor of both features and short films. His work is largely influenced by lost Silent-era films, which he frequently integrates into his style. Apart from films, Maddin is also an installation artist hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba. His career began in earnest in 1985 and since then, he has become one of Canada's most celebrated filmmakers. His distinguished body of work has been praised by critics and he has been the focus of academic studies, including numerous interviews and book-length studies. Maddin's dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed; he was appointed to the Order of Canada, the country's highest civilian honour, in 2012. He also served as a visiting lecturer at Harvard University's Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies in 2015. His early life was marked by familial tragedy, education at the University of Winnipeg, and a variety of jobs post-graduation. Eventually, Maddin found his true calling in the arts, inspired by numerous films, mentors, and collaborators. Maddin's films are characterised by their 'primitive' nature, utilising non-stars, low budgets, and honest, exciting narratives. He completed his latest feature film, The Green Fog, in 2017.

Maddin's personal life hasn't been without drama either. His rollercoaster love life includes three marriages; to Martha Jane Waugh (1976 - 1979), Elise Moore (1995 - 1997), and Kim Morgan (2010 - 2014). He has a daughter, Jilian, born in 1978 from his marriage to Waugh. Maddin continues to be an influential and esteemed figure in the Canadian film industry, delivering compelling content in a unique, captivating style.