Jethro Waters is an American independent filmmaker, known for the documentary feature F11 and Be There (2020)[1] and the narrative feature Gunfighter Paradise (2024).[2] He is a screenwriter, director, cinematographer, editor, producer, and composer.[3]
Known for a lyrical, experimental, and surrealist style that spans multiple genres,[4] his films are representative of an auteur method, with his cinematography being praised by critics as a distinctive element of his work. His satirical narrative feature Gunfighter Paradise has been described as a Semi-autobiographical dark comedy[5] that explores themes of religion, grief, family, and The American South.
His documentary films have often focused on artists and photographers.[6] He won a Regional Emmy Award at the 2021 Midsouth Emmy Awards for the documentary feature F11 and Be There.[7]
He is also known for directing music videos for various artists, including John Cale, Weyes Blood[8] and Angel Olsen.[9]
Born in Texas and raised in North Carolina,[10] he is one of the Notable Alumni from the University of North Carolina Asheville.[11]