Jared Lawrence Hess was born on July 18, 1979, in Glendale, Arizona. He grew up with a love for cinema, watching movies with his family from a young age. His passion for storytelling and filmmaking developed early on, shaping his future career as a director.
After graduating from high school, Hess attended Brigham Young University in Utah, where he honed his skills in filmmaking. It was during his time at BYU that he met his future wife and creative collaborator, Jerusha Elizabeth Demke. The two bonded over their shared love of storytelling and comedy, laying the foundation for their successful partnership in the film industry.
After completing his education, Hess set out to make a name for himself in the film industry. He drew inspiration from his own experiences and the quirky characters he encountered along the way. It was this unique perspective that set him apart from other filmmakers, leading to his breakthrough success with his debut feature film, "Napoleon Dynamite."
"Napoleon Dynamite," released in 2004, quickly became a cult classic. The film follows the awkward and eccentric high school student Napoleon Dynamite as he navigates the challenges of adolescence. Hess's offbeat humor and heartfelt storytelling resonated with audiences, earning the film critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
The success of "Napoleon Dynamite" catapulted Hess into the spotlight, establishing him as a talented director with a unique vision. The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival, further solidifying his place in the industry.
Building on the success of "Napoleon Dynamite," Hess went on to direct "Nacho Libre" in 2006. The film stars Jack Black as Ignacio, a priest who moonlights as a luchador to fulfill his dreams of wrestling glory. Hess's signature blend of quirky humor and heartfelt storytelling shines through in this comedic gem, further solidifying his reputation as a director to watch.
Outside of his career in filmmaking, Hess is a devoted husband and father. He and his wife, Jerusha, have two children named Elliot and Greta. Their family life is a source of inspiration and joy for Hess, providing him with the support and love he needs to continue pursuing his creative endeavors.
In the years that followed, Hess continued to explore his passion for storytelling through a variety of projects. In 2009, he directed "Gentlemen Broncos," a quirky comedy starring Michael Angarano. The film once again showcased Hess's unique style and offbeat humor, earning praise from fans and critics alike.
With each new project, Hess continues to push the boundaries of comedy and storytelling, delighting audiences with his fresh perspectives and relatable characters. His commitment to authenticity and originality sets him apart as a director who is not afraid to take risks and challenge convention.