Michael Patrick Dougherty is a multifaceted creative force, exceling as a writer, director, animator, and producer in a wide range of genre films. His career began with a background in animation and illustration, with his work featured on MTV, Nickelodeon, and a line of unconventional greeting cards published by NobleWorks.
As a screenwriter, Dougherty co-wrote the blockbuster films X-Men 2 and Superman Returns before making his directorial debut with the cult classic horror comedy, Trick 'r Treat (2007),which boasts an impressive cast including Anna Paquin, Dylan Baker, and Brian Cox. Trick 'r Treat has since become a beloved annual tradition, spawning a diverse array of merchandise, from toys and comics to theme park attractions and Halloween decorations, with a sequel in development with Legendary Pictures.
Dougherty's fascination with the holiday season led him to create Krampus (2015),a holiday horror comedy starring Toni Collette, Adam Scott, David Koechner, and Allison Tolman. Like Trick 'r Treat, Krampus has become a staple of the holiday season, with its unique blend of humor and horror captivating audiences worldwide.
Most recently, Dougherty co-wrote and directed the massive blockbuster Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019),starring Millie Bobby Brown, Vera Farmiga, and Ken Watanabe, and co-wrote the story for its sequel, Godzilla vs. Kong (2021),featuring Brian Tyree Henry, Rebecca Hall, and Alexander Skaarsgaard. Throughout his illustrious career, Dougherty's work has collectively grossed over 2 billion dollars at the box office, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the world of genre filmmaking.
