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French film composer renowned for his versatile and evocative scores in Hollywood and international cinemaBorn in Paris, Desplat studied at the Conservatoire de Paris and began composing for European films in the 1980s. His breakthrough came with 'The Girl with a Pearl Earring' (2003), leading to prolific work on major Hollywood productions. He has received 11 Academy Award nominations, winning twice for 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' (2014) and 'The Shape of Water' (2017). Known for collaborations with Wes Anderson, David Yates, and Guillermo del Toro, he blends orchestral traditions with unique instrumentation.

• Started piano at age 5 and later mastered trumpet/flute. His multicultural upbringing—Greek mother and French father who met in California—deeply influenced his musical style.
• Faced early career struggles in France, composing over 50 European film scores before Hollywood recognition. His score for 'The Queen' (2006) marked his international breakthrough.
• Known for intense work ethics: Composes 8–10 hours daily, often writing entire scores by hand before digital orchestration.
• Advocates for film music preservation, serving as president of the IFMCA (International Film Music Critics Association) and lecturing at institutions like London's Royal College of Music.
• Won both his Oscars in consecutive years (2015 and 2018), a rare feat for composers. His 'Grand Budapest Hotel' score features zithers and balalaikas to evoke Eastern European folklore.