James Orr, a Canadian by birth, embarked on a journey that would take him to the esteemed Carleton University Journalism School, where he honed his skills in the realm of storytelling. Following his time at Carleton, Orr pursued his passion for the cinematic arts by attending the undergraduate film school at York University in Toronto. In 1977, he achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first Canadian to be accepted as a Director Fellow at the prestigious American Film Institute in Los Angeles, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.
Throughout his illustrious career, Orr has collaborated with his writing and producing partner, Jim Cruickshank, to create a plethora of successful films that have captivated audiences worldwide. Their collective efforts have yielded a staggering cumulative box office total of over half a billion dollars, a truly impressive feat. Some of their most notable collaborations include the hit films "Three Men and a Baby" (1987),"Mr. Destiny" (1990),and "Father of the Bride" (1991),which have become beloved classics in the world of cinema.