Born in Switzerland, Xavier Koller's life took a turn after completing his high school education, as he embarked on a four-year apprenticeship as a precision toolmaker, a stint that would later influence his creative pursuits.
Following this period of vocational training, Koller pursued a three-year course of study at the esteemed Academy of Drama in Zurich, Switzerland, ultimately graduating with a dual degree in acting and directing.
The subsequent years of his career were marked by a rich diversity of experiences, as he honed his craft by acting and directing at renowned German and Swiss theatre companies.
In addition to his work on stage, Koller also made a name for himself in the realm of television, appearing in numerous TV-plays as an actor, while also showcasing his versatility as a director by helming a range of commercials.
His talents did not stop there, as he also had the opportunity to act in a variety of films, a experience that would serve as a precursor to his future endeavors as a writer and director of feature films.