Sturla Gunnarsson, a renowned filmmaker, has spent over three decades honing his craft, earning him a reputation as one of Canada's most accomplished directors.
Born in Iceland, Gunnarsson relocated to Vancouver, Canada, where he spent his formative years. He later pursued higher education at the University of British Columbia, before moving to Toronto to start his professional journey.
Gunnarsson's first foray into filmmaking was with the National Film Board, where he began to make a name for himself. His debut feature, "After The Axe" (1982),garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.
Fast-forward to 1998, when Gunnarsson's first fiction film, "Such a Long Journey," based on Rohinton Mistry's novel, received widespread international recognition. The film earned a staggering twelve Genie Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Gunnarsson's subsequent feature films, "Rare Birds" (2001) and "Beowulf & Grendel" (2005),showcased his versatility and ability to tackle unique genres, from quirky comedies to ancient epics.
In addition to his feature work, Gunnarsson has also directed several acclaimed documentaries, including "Gerrie and Louise" (1997) and "Air India 182" (2008).
Throughout his illustrious career, Gunnarsson has received numerous accolades and recognition. In 2008, he was elected president of the Directors Guild of Canada, a testament to his dedication and commitment to the industry.
Today, Gunnarsson resides in Toronto but continues to work on projects globally, cementing his status as a respected and accomplished filmmaker.
