John Cafiero is an American film and music video director who has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including The Ramones, Green Day, and Weezer. He is known for his unique visual style, combining elements of punk, pop, and alternative rock.
Cafiero was born in 1967 in Long Island, New York. He grew up with a love of music, particularly punk rock and alternative music, and he began making his own films and videos when he was just a teenager. He attended the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he studied film. After graduating, he moved to Los Angeles and began working as a freelance director.
Cafiero's first big break came in 1993 when he was hired to direct a music video for The Ramones' single "Something to Believe In." The video was a big hit and helped launch Cafiero's career. He went on to direct videos for other major artists, including Green Day ("Basket Case") and Weezer ("Buddy Holly").
In addition to music videos, Cafiero also directed the feature film "Gutter Punks" in 1996. It starred Ewan McGregor and focused on a group of homeless teenagers living on the streets of Los Angeles. The film was a cult hit and earned Cafiero a great deal of critical acclaim.
Cafiero has continued to work as a director in the years since, directing a number of music videos and television commercials. He has won numerous awards, including an MTV Video Music Award for Best Direction in 1998. He also served as a creative director for the video game "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock" in 2007.
Cafiero is currently based in Los Angeles and continues to direct music videos and commercials. He is respected for his unique visual style, which combines elements of punk, pop, and alternative rock. He is considered one of the most influential directors of his generation.
