Michael Arndt

Whether he was writing scripts for an offbeat independent comedy or a big-budgeted animated film, Michael Arndt always created timeless stories and multidimensional characters that stayed with viewers long after they have left theaters. Arndt first gained acclaim for his Academy Award-winning comedy "Little Miss Sunshine" (2006), a witty, modern take on the family road trip story that sparkled with humor and heart. After making waves in independent cinema, Arndt penned the script for the highly anticipated sequel, "Toy Story 3" (2010), one of the world's most celebrated animated film franchises. Following his script work on the sci-fi thriller, "Oblivion" (2013) starring Tom Cruise, Arndt was catapulted into the upper echelons of Hollywood screenwriters when he was chosen to write "Star Wars: Episode VII" (2015) after George Lucas made news for selling his franchise to Walt Disney Studios. For infusing both life and depth into his film's characters Arndt showcased his versatility, and emerged as one of Hollywood's most successful and original storytellers.