Born in Cleveland, Ohio

Raised in South Bend, Indiana

Wrote weekly column "Troubled Waters" with fictional stories based on classmates at Riley High School

Moved to L.A. after graduating from college

First produced script, "Heathers" (based in part on his high school writings)

Re-teamed with "Heathers" director Michael Lehmann for "Hudson Hawk"

Breakthrough success, "Batman Returns"

Made feature directorial debut with "Happy Campers"; also scripted; screened at the Sundance Film Festival

Helmed the dark comedy, "Sex and Death 101"; reunited with "Heathers" star Winona Ryder