Patrick Cazals is a French director, producer, and screenwriter. He is best known for his work on the films "Tomboy" and "Girlhood".
Cazals was born and raised in Paris, France. He attended the French film school La Fémis, where he graduated with a degree in directing and screenwriting. After graduating, Cazals worked as an assistant director on several French films, including "La Cérémonie" and "La Haine".
In 2011, Cazals made his debut as a director and writer with the feature film "Tomboy". The film tells the story of a 10-year-old girl who moves to a new neighborhood and puts on a disguise in order to fit in with the local boys. "Tomboy" was a critical and commercial success, and was nominated for the César Award for Best First Feature Film.
In 2014, Cazals wrote and directed the coming-of-age drama "Girlhood". The film follows the story of a teenage girl living in a Parisian housing project who finds solace and friendship in a group of female friends. "Girlhood" was critically acclaimed and won numerous awards, including the César Award for Best Screenplay and the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.
In 2017, Cazals wrote and directed the science-fiction thriller "The Gateway". The film follows a group of scientists who travel to a mysterious and dangerous parallel universe. The Gateway was released to mixed reviews and received a limited theatrical release.
Cazals is currently in pre-production on his next feature film, "The Summer of 85". The film is based on the novel of the same name by British author Aidan Chambers and tells the story of a young man who falls in love for the first time during a summer holiday in France.
Throughout his career, Cazals has become known for his cinematic style, which combines elements of realism and fantasy in order to explore complex themes such as identity and growing up. His films have earned him recognition and awards at numerous international film festivals, and he continues to be one of the most exciting and innovative directors working today.
