Joe Lawson is a multifaceted filmmaker with a career spanning numerous roles. He has worked as a director, writer, practical and digital visual effects supervisor, artist, storyboard artist, voice-over artist, and actor. His extensive experience includes directing animated and live-action productions, including five feature films, commercials, and television shows.
Notably, he was the digital artist responsible for creating the arrow that pierces Peter Jackson's chest in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. In 1999, he relocated to Hollywood to pursue his passion for visual effects and directing. His directorial debut was the science fiction/horror adventure Nazis at the Center of the Earth, followed by Clash of the Empires, a fantasy epic lensed in Cambodia.
Joe has also worked on various projects, including Age of Dinosaurs, Alone for Christmas, and Ardennes Fury. He has collaborated with renowned actors such as Treat Williams and Ronny Cox, as well as Kevin Sorbo and David DeLuise. His extensive experience in visual effects has led him to work with prominent studios like Foundation Imaging, Digital Domain, Rhythm and Hues, Zoic Studios, and NBC/Universal.
Throughout his career, Joe has demonstrated his versatility by working on a range of projects, from science fiction and fantasy to comedy and drama. He has also been involved in various television series, including Star Trek: Enterprise and Caprica, and served as VFX supervisor on the cult phenomenon Sharknado franchise.
Born to an Air Force sergeant, Joe grew up moving frequently, eventually settling in Neah Bay, Washington. He began his career in media by working at a student radio station, progressing to news feature reporter and television commercial director at KRTV-3 in Great Falls, Montana. He has received numerous awards for his work, including a Rocky Mountain Emmy nomination and Advertising Federation Silver Medalist award.
In addition to his filmmaking career, Joe has worked as a weather announcer, flying with the Blue Angels and writing, directing, and editing documentaries and live specials. He is known for his ability to adapt to new challenges, whether directing in a far-off location or mashing up genres to create unique and memorable images.
Joe resides in southern California with his wife Kelly and their two children, continuing to work as a director, writer, and visual effects supervisor in the film industry.
