Damian John Harper, a multifaceted individual, was born in 1978 in Boulder, Colorado, USA. After completing his Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology with honors, he embarked on a fascinating career path. Initially, he worked as an ethnologist among the Zapotecs in Oaxaca, Mexico, delving into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Subsequently, Harper transitioned to a unique profession as an underwater cave dive instructor in Brazil, where he honed his skills in the depths of the ocean. This diverse experience not only broadened his perspectives but also instilled in him a sense of adventure and resilience.
In 2012, Harper pursued his passion for film by enrolling at the University of TV and Film in Munich, Germany. His short fiction film, Teardrop, garnered widespread recognition, being invited to over 50 international competitions worldwide and winning several prestigious awards.
The success of Teardrop led to Harper's feature screenplay, Los Ángeles, being selected as a Berlinale Talent Project Market participant and an Academy of Arts and Sciences Nicholl Fellowship in Screenwriting Quarterfinalist. Moreover, the project was commissioned for theatrical release by ZDF and premiered at the 64th Berlinale in 2014.
Harper's sophomore project, In The Middle Of The River, a family drama set in the American Southwest desert, was developed at the renowned Cannes Residence du Festival. The screenplay was commissioned for theatrical release by ZDF/ARTE and premiered at the Munich Film Festival in 2018, where it received the German Cinema New Talent Award for best Screenplay.
In his own words, Damian John Harper defines himself as a filmmaker, photographer, and devoted father.
