Matthew Harrison has built a diverse and respected career as a film director, screenwriter, acting coach, and theatre director. Born in Montreal, Quebec, and raised in New York City, Harrison has left a distinct mark on independent cinema and television through his creative storytelling and commitment to the arts.
Born on December 2, 1959, Harrison developed an early passion for filmmaking. Growing up in downtown Manhattan, he attended PS 41 and began experimenting with 8mm films at just nine years of age. He later completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious Cooper Union School of Art in New York City. Throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, he continued to hone his craft, producing short films that eventually gained recognition in various independent film festivals, including the New York Film Festival Downtown and the Ann Arbor Film Festival.
Career Highlights and Major Movies
Harrison’s breakthrough in feature filmmaking came with the acclaimed indie movie Rhythm Thief. The project earned him Special Jury Recognition for Directing at the Sundance Film Festival. Following this success, he directed his first studio feature, Kicked in the Head, which was executive produced by legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and released by Universal Studios.
In addition to his feature films, Harrison made his mark in television by directing episodes 111 and 112 of the hit HBO series Sex and the City, working closely with actress Kim Cattrall. His creative portfolio also extends deep into the theatrical world. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was a contributing member of the experimental theater group Ridge Theater, directing stage productions such as Jack Benny at La Mama and The Manson Family opera at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Film Crash and Community Impact
Beyond directing, Harrison played a vital role in supporting the independent film community. In 1985, he launched a film festival on New York’s Lower East Side, officially adopting the name Film Crash in early 1988. Joined by fellow directors Karl Nussbaum and Scott Saunders, the festival grew significantly, screening independent works at notable venues such as Performance Space 122 and the Angelika Film Center, and eventually introducing official festival awards.
Personal Life and Net Worth
Standing at a height of approximately 5 feet 9 inches, Harrison keeps a relatively private personal life, and public records indicate he remains single. Over a decades-long career spanning independent cinema, television, theatre, and education as an acting coach, financial estimates place his net worth around $5 million, reflecting his enduring contributions to the entertainment industry.
