Howard Cohen

Howard Cohen—yeah, that’s a name you’ve probably seen rolling in the credits if you’ve dabbled in indie film or just caught something a little off the beaten path. Born in Lewiston, Maine, back in ’59, he’s not just another suit in Hollywood, trust me. The guy’s been hustling behind the scenes for decades, and his fingerprints are on some seriously memorable projects. Ever seen “All Is Lost”? That one with Robert Redford basically fighting an entire ocean solo? That’s Cohen’s handiwork. He’s got a knack for picking stories that hit you in the gut or make you squirm a little in your seat—“Vanity Fair” is in his wheelhouse too, which, let’s be honest, is a totally different vibe. That’s range right there. He doesn’t just stick to one genre or formula, either. Take “Shortcomings” from 2023. Not exactly your average Hollywood fare. It’s quirky, sharp, pokes at social norms, and somehow still manages to be funny and heartfelt. Cohen’s not afraid to bet on projects that take a few risks or look at the world sideways, and that’s probably why he’s still relevant after all these years. Beyond the camera, dude’s got a personal life too. Married to Eric d’Arbeloff since 2014, and they’ve got a kid together. Balancing family and film? Not for the faint of heart, but Cohen seems to pull it off. All in all, he’s one of those producers whose taste you start to trust after a while—if his name’s attached, you know you’re in for something that’s at least aiming for original, even if it doesn’t play by the usual rules.