Valerie Faris was born on October 20, 1958 in California. From a young age, she had a passion for the arts, particularly dance. She pursued this passion and became a dance student, studying various styles and techniques.
Faris co-founded the production company Bob Industries, where she began her career in the entertainment industry. Through Bob Industries, she worked with a variety of clients, including HP, Volkswagen, Sony, GAP, ESPN, and Target. Her creativity and talent quickly caught the attention of the industry.
It was at UCLA where Faris would meet her future husband and directing partner, Jonathan Dayton. The two shared a love for film and music, and quickly discovered a creative synergy between them. They began collaborating on various projects, combining their unique talents to create visually stunning and captivating work.
Faris and Dayton made a name for themselves in the music video industry, working with renowned artists such as The Smashing Pumpkins and Red Hot Chili Peppers. One of their most notable works was the music video for Tonight Tonight by The Smashing Pumpkins, for which Faris won six MTV Video Music Awards. The video was praised for its innovative visuals and storytelling.
Another standout music video directed by Faris and Dayton was for Red Hot Chili Peppers' Californication. The video featured a computer-generated Anthony Kiedis and showcased the duo's ability to push boundaries and think outside the box.
Faris and Dayton gained widespread recognition with their feature film Little Miss Sunshine, which they co-directed. The film received critical acclaim and won multiple awards, including two Academy Awards. Faris' attention to detail and ability to capture authentic moments on screen were instrumental in the film's success.
Valerie Faris has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, both through her innovative music videos and her work in film. Her collaboration with Jonathan Dayton has resulted in unforgettable and influential projects that continue to inspire audiences around the world.
Faris' dedication to her craft and her willingness to push boundaries have cemented her as a visionary director in the industry. Her work serves as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration in storytelling.