Paul Thomas Anderson is an American filmmaker best known for his critical and commercial success, Boogie Nights. Born in “the Valley” of Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley, Anderson was heavily influenced by the culture of “burnouts” and “wanna-bes” that surrounded him. He used his formative experiences to guide his filmmaking style; influencing him so much that many of his films are set in the Valley. Anderson is known for making films that explore flawed characters searching for redemption and approval while fighting against their alienation. He is also known for using lots of long, impressive, singular shots in his movies.