Ruedi Gerber, a visionary and innovative filmmaker, embarked on a groundbreaking adventure by founding ZAS Film AG in the vibrant city of Zurich, Switzerland, in the year 1992, thereby initiating a storied career that would leave an indelible mark on the cinematic world, replete with numerous triumphs and achievements that would solidify his reputation as a master of his craft.
Before embarking on his cinematic journey, Gerber refined his acting skills on the stage, showcasing his versatility by performing in a wide variety of theaters scattered throughout the German-speaking world, including the renowned Mannheim, the culturally rich Basel, and the vibrant Wuppertal, initially as a member of a respected theater company and subsequently in the autonomous and avant-garde drama scene.
From the year 1986 to 1990, Gerber embarked on a journey to hone his skills and nurture his passion for the art of filmmaking by attending the esteemed Tisch School of the Arts, a renowned institution located in the heart of New York City.
Gerber's initial foray into documentary filmmaking yielded two notable productions, "Living with the Spill" and "Meta Mecano", which garnered widespread international acclaim and recognition for their thought-provoking themes and masterful storytelling.
In addition, Gerber's maiden feature film, "Heartbreak Hospital", made its debut in 2002 and boasted an impressive cast, featuring the incredibly talented Patricia Clarkson in a starring role.
Anna Halprin, a celebrated postmodern dancer, had been the subject of three documentaries produced by this individual, with Breath Made Visible being a standout that garnered widespread recognition and acclaim across the globe, ultimately cementing his reputation as a respected filmmaker.
Serving as a multifaceted creative force, Gerber extends his influence beyond directing to also produce a diverse array of international films. Notably, he was involved in the production of La Fuga – Girl in Flight, a cinematic masterpiece skillfully directed by Sandra Vannucchi, which garnered a prestigious nomination for the esteemed European Film Academy Award. Additionally, Gerber's production endeavors encompassed Basmati Blues, a feature film boasting an impressive cast that includes the talented Brie Larson and the veteran Donald Sutherland. Furthermore, his production company was responsible for Letters from Baghdad, a documentary directed by the accomplished Sabine Krayenbühl, which went on to garner widespread acclaim and numerous awards at various renowned film festivals.
Throughout the entirety of his remarkable and illustrious career, the extraordinary individual known as Gerber has persistently and relentlessly pushed the boundaries of storytelling, consistently displaying a profound understanding of the intricacies of the human experience and a unique ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through the medium of cinema.
