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Spike JonzeAmerican music video and commercial director, film director and producer
Date of Birth: 22.10.1969
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and BMX Career
- Skateboarding and Video Directing
- Commercial and Film Success
- Movie Directing and Writing
- "Richard Koufey" and Music
- Personal Life
Early Life and BMX Career
Adam Spiegel, known professionally as Spike Jonze, was born in Rockville, Maryland, on October 22, 1969. In his youth, he gained recognition as a freestyle BMX rider and became a member of the international BMX club "Club Homeboy" alongside Mark "Lew" Lewman and Andy Jenkins.
Skateboarding and Video Directing
Jonze transitioned into skateboarding and became the editor of "Grand Royal" magazine and the chief photographer of "Transworld Skateboarding" magazine. He directed several skateboarding videos, including the renowned "Video Days" for Blind Skateboards, and co-directed the skateboarding film "Yeah Right!"
Commercial and Film Success
In 2006, Jonze was nominated for the American Guild of Directors Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Commercials. His notable advertising campaigns include "Hello Tomorrow" for Adidas, "Penguin" for Miller beer, and "Pardon Our Dust" for The Gap. He also co-produced and co-wrote the MTV series "Jackass" and its feature film adaptation.
Movie Directing and Writing
Jonze is known for his acclaimed feature films, including "Being John Malkovich" (1999) and "Adaptation" (2002), both written by Charlie Kaufman. He has also directed "Where the Wild Things Are" (2009), "Her" (2013), and "Beastie Boys Story" (2020).
"Richard Koufey" and Music
Jonze has created several alter egos, including "Richard Koufey," the leader of the "Torrance Community" dance group. As Koufey, he directed and starred in the music video for Fatboy Slim's "Praise You," which won MTV VMA awards for Best Direction, Breakthrough Video, and Best Choreography.
Personal Life
Jonze married director Sofia Coppola in 1999, but the couple divorced in 2003. His brother, Sam, is a producer and DJ, and his father was a distant relative of the family that owned the Spiegel marketing company. He is currently in a relationship with actress Michelle Williams.
