Primarily known to American audiences as Jacques Mayol in Luc Besson's cult classic, The Big Blue, Jean-Marc Barr has actually forged a career in avant-garde cinema not only as an actor but also as screenwriter, director, cinematographer and producer.

Born to a French mother and American father, he grew up in Rankin, Illinois but pursued his higher education in California, London, and Paris. He brings this European sensibility to his films and belief in free cinema.