Richard Kelly

When "Donnie Darko" (2001) first premiered in theaters, it perplexed audiences and seemed doomed to DVD anonymity - that is until it was rediscovered by fans and critics, giving the film and its creator a rare second chance in Hollywood. Growing up as the son of an educator and a scientist, Kelly had long been fascinated by art and film, eventually graduating from the University of Southern California's vaunted film program. Through sheer determination, he was able to direct his first feature film, "Donnie Darko" on a shoestring budget. Although initially a commercial disappointment, the complex metaphysical tale eventually garnered a loyal following, earning Kelly the chance to bring his unique vision to the screen once more with "Southland Tales" (2007). Enigmatic and ambitious to a fault, the film was greeted by nearly universal ambivalence - if not outright disdain - upon its release, calling into question for many Kelly's promise as a viable filmmaker. Two years later, he wrote and directed his third feature, "The Box" (2009), based on a short story by Richard Matheson and starring Cameron Diaz. Unfortunately, the movie was far from the accessible thriller many had hoped for, and the film performed poorly in theaters. Acknowledged as one of young Hollywood's more unique directorial voices - one that harkened back to the auteur era of the 1970s - Kelly nonetheless would continue to struggle to find the balance between the personal vision and professional success which would allow him to progress as a filmmaker.