Aaron Kaufman, ‘Superpower’ Director, Dies at 51

As I reflect on the life and career of Aaron Kaufman, a fellow filmmaker whose journey was nothing short of remarkable, I am left in awe of his resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication to his craft. From his humble beginnings on Long Island to his transformative work with Robert Rodriguez and beyond, Aaron’s life was a testament to the power of determination and the importance of following one’s passion.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m deeply saddened to share the news of Aaron Kaufman’s untimely passing. This Emmy-winning luminary, a writer, director, and producer extraordinaire, left us on Thursday evening in Las Vegas following an apparent heart attack. He was just 51 years old.

Chad Verdi, a movie financier who backed “The Irishman” among other projects of the late Kaufman, confirmed his death.

Originating from Long Island, the long-term producing partner of Robert Rodriguez, is predominantly recognized for his co-directing work with Sean Penn on the Emmy-winning documentary “Superpower.” This documentary highlighted the political ascent of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Although Sean Penn was the public face of the documentary, it was Kaufman who was physically present in Ukraine when the conflict with Russia erupted in February 2022. He had been in Kiev during the critical weeks preceding Russia’s invasion and was even in a bunker with Zelenskyy during the early, tense days of the war. Later, Penn visited Ukraine to interview Zelenskyy for the documentary.

Originally, “Superpower” wasn’t intended by Kaufman as a war film, but rather as a depiction of Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s extraordinary journey from being a well-known comedian to his current role on the global stage following his election as President of Ukraine in 2019. At the 2023 Berlin Film Festival while promoting the movie, Kaufman described “Superpower” as an exciting chance to explore Zelenskyy’s character, follow his progress and uncover the truth behind him. This approach was particularly appealing and captivating for Kaufman.

In 2021, Kaufman focused his camera on the Jehovah’s Witnesses for the sensational Vice Studios docuseries “Crusaders,” revealing widespread abuses within the church. (The documentary maker was brought up as a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses.)

Initially in his filmmaking journey, a New York resident moved to Austin. There, he collaborated with Robert Rodriguez, contributing to the production of various successful films under Rodriguez’s Dimension label such as “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For,” “Machete,” and “Machete Kills.” In addition, he was responsible for writing, directing, and producing the 2016 suspenseful movie “Urge,” featuring Pierce Brosnan. This production was distributed by Lionsgate.

At the time of his passing, Kaufman was engaged in several projects, one being a documentary highlighting the life and pioneering career of Hawaiian icon Don Ho, as well as films based in Ukraine, a place he frequently visited. Lately, Kaufman had taken up the role of producer for “The Jet,” a Jennifer Tiexiera-directed documentary about the life of renowned kickboxer Benny “The Jet” Urquidez. He collaborated with producers John Scalise, Keanu Reeves and Fisher Stevens on this Verdi-funded film that is currently in production.

Kaufman was deeply admired within New York’s movie-making circle. Regularly, he would gather with other producers and team members at his preferred haunt, the Mercer Hotel, which was close to his residence. Frequently, he worked alongside his girlfriend, actress Kea Ho, who is the daughter of Don Ho. (Paraphrased)

He is survived by his three children as well as his mother and brother.

2024-10-19 21:17

Aaron Kaufman, ‘Superpower’ Director, Dies at 51

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