Indian-born director Tarsem worked extensively in commercials and music videos before making his feature debut with the psycho-thriller "The Cell" (2000), a largely dreamlike film bringing life to the fantastical subconscious thoughts of a serial killer. Educated at a boarding school nestled in the Himalayas, Tarsem moved to the United States to study business at Harvard. After deciding to pursue film studies instead, the would-be director enrolled at Pasadena's renowned Art Center College of Design where he developed his unique, visually dynamic style. Early work included a stint directing
Directed the Suzanne Vega video "Tired of Sleeping"
1991
Made a splash as director of the widely acclaimed R.E.M. video "Losing My Religion"; video took six awards at the MTV Video Music Awards, including honors for Video of the Year, Breakthrough Video and Direction in a Video
1994
Directed the Deep Forest video "Sweet Lullaby"
Worked extensively as a commercial director, helmed memorable and award-winning ad spots for companies including Levi's, Lexus, Miller Lite and Anne Klein
