Ben Proudfoot facts for kids

Ben Proudfoot is a talented Canadian filmmaker, born on October 29, 1990. He is known for making short documentary films that tell amazing true stories. He has won several Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, for his work. His films The Queen of Basketball and The Last Repair Shop both won the Oscar for Best Documentary Short Subject. Another film, A Concerto Is a Conversation, was also nominated for an Oscar.

Who is Ben Proudfoot?

Ben Proudfoot grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. When he was younger, he was a very skilled magician! He even won international magic contests. But he later decided to study film at the USC School of Cinematic Arts.

His Early Life and Filmmaking Journey

In 2012, Ben started his own film company called Breakwater Studios. This company helps him create his short films. He has directed many films, including Dinner with Fred and That's My Jazz. His films often focus on real people and their unique experiences.

Telling Important Stories Through Film

Ben Proudfoot's films often highlight important stories that might not be widely known. He likes to share the lives of people who have done incredible things.

The Silent Pulse of the Universe

In 2021, Ben made a film called "The Silent Pulse of the Universe." It was about an astronomer named Jocelyn Bell Burnell. She played a huge role in discovering special stars called pulsars. However, she didn't get the Nobel Prize for her work, even though others involved did. The film also shows how she faced unfair treatment because she was a woman scientist.

The Last Repair Shop and Other Films

Ben's 2023 film, The Last Repair Shop, tells the story of people who fix musical instruments for students in Los Angeles public schools. This heartwarming film won an Oscar in 2024. His company, Breakwater Studios, also produced "MOTORCYCLE MARY." This film was shown at the Tribeca Film Festival. Famous race car driver Lewis Hamilton was one of the executive producers for this film.

Awards and Recognition

Ben Proudfoot has received many awards for his films.

• The Queen of Basketball is a film about Lusia Harris, a legendary women's basketball player. This film won an Oscar in 2021. Famous basketball stars Shaquille O'Neal and Steph Curry helped produce it.
• The Last Repair Shop, which Ben made with Kris Bowers, won an Oscar in 2024. It celebrates the people who keep music alive for students.

Films by Ben Proudfoot

Here are some of the films Ben Proudfoot has directed or co-directed:

• The Queen of Basketball
• A Concerto Is a Conversation
• The Last Repair Shop