Spenser Cohen
Biography
Spenser Cohen is an American screenwriter, film producer, and director recognized for his contributions to science fiction, action, and horror genres. Known for his ability to craft engaging, high-concept narratives, Cohen has made a significant impact in Hollywood with projects like Extinction (2018), Moonfall (2022), and Expend4bles (2023).
Early Career and Breakthrough
Cohen began his career directing music videos, notably Diana DeGarmo's "Good Goodbye" in March 2012, showcasing his creative vision early on. His breakthrough as a screenwriter came in December 2013 when his script for the sci-fi action film Extinction appeared on The Black List, an annual ranking of Hollywood’s best-unproduced screenplays.
The screenplay was eventually picked up by Netflix and released in 2018, starring Michael Peña and Lizzy Caplan. The film’s inventive storytelling and unique twists earned Cohen industry recognition.
Major Works
- Extinction (2018): A sci-fi thriller that delves into themes of survival and identity, marking Cohen’s first major success.
- Moonfall (2022): Cohen contributed to the script for Roland Emmerich’s disaster sci-fi epic, which explores humanity’s struggle to survive a catastrophic event involving the moon.
Other Notable Projects
- Distant (2019): In February 2019, Amblin Partners acquired Cohen’s script for this sci-fi adventure film, further cementing his reputation as a storyteller with a penchant for futuristic and imaginative concepts.
- House/Wife (formerly Ivy): Cohen wrote the screenplay for this Netflix-backed thriller in 2021, though the project was ultimately shelved.
- Expend4bles (2023): Cohen gained further prominence as the screenplay and story writer for the fourth installment in the Expendables franchise, combining explosive action with a fresh narrative.
- Blink (2022): Cohen directed this horror short film, demonstrating his versatility as a filmmaker and a talent for the horror genre.
Feature Directorial Debut
In May 2024, Spenser Cohen made his feature-length directorial debut with Tarot (originally titled Horrorscope), a horror film he also wrote. This marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to handle larger projects and lead them to completion.
