Jem Cohen

Jem Cohen is an American filmmaker and photographer born in 1962, in Kabul, Afghanistan. Raised in Washington, D.C., he later attended Wesleyan University, Connecticut, in art studies. Cohen is recognized for his distinctive style that often blurs the boundaries between documentary and experimental cinema. His works delve into urban environments, exploring the impact of globalization, and weaving together personal and political narratives. Cohen has a keen interest in capturing the nuances of everyday life and the connections between people and their surroundings. One of his notable films is the documentary Instrument (1999), which follows the band Fugazi over a decade. Other acclaimed works include Chain (2004), Museum Hours (2012), and Counting (2015), a cinematic essay reflecting on time, place, and the passage of years. Jem Cohen's films have been featured at major international film festivals, earning him recognition for his unique storytelling approach and visual aesthetic. Aside from filmmaking, Cohen is an accomplished photographer and teacher.