Josef Fares, born on September 19, 1977, in Beirut, Lebanon, is a Swedish-Lebanese film director, screenwriter, actor, and video game designer who has left a significant mark on both the film and gaming industries. Known for his dynamic storytelling and ability to seamlessly transition between mediums, Fares has captivated audiences worldwide. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $3 million, a testament to his success and versatility.
Early Life and Journey to Sweden
Fares was born into an Assyrian family amidst the chaos of the Lebanese Civil War. At the age of ten, his family fled to Sweden, seeking safety and a fresh start. They settled in Örebro, where Fares spent his formative years. The trauma and displacement he experienced as a child significantly influenced his storytelling, infusing his works with themes of survival, family bonds, and the human spirit’s resilience.
Growing up, Fares quickly developed a passion for filmmaking. During his teenage years, he was notably prolific, creating numerous short films that he submitted to festivals worldwide. His relentless pursuit of storytelling paved the way for his acceptance into the Dramatic Institute in Stockholm in 1998, where he refined his skills in film directing.
A Breakthrough in Swedish Cinema
Fares’ feature film debut, “Jalla! Jalla!” in 2000, was a critical and commercial triumph. The romantic comedy, exploring themes of cultural identity and family expectations, resonated deeply with audiences. The film’s success established Fares as a promising director in Swedish cinema.
He followed this success with “Kopps” in 2003, a comedy that skillfully balanced humor with commentary on small-town life. However, it was “Zozo” in 2005—a semi-autobiographical film depicting a young boy’s escape from war-torn Lebanon—that truly showcased Fares’ storytelling prowess. The film’s poignant narrative earned him the Nordic Council Film Prize in 2006, solidifying his status as a leading filmmaker.
Transition to Video Games: A Bold Move
In 2013, Fares took a bold step by entering the gaming industry, directing “Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons”. The game’s innovative control scheme, where players simultaneously control two characters, and its emotionally charged narrative, earned widespread acclaim. This success prompted Fares to establish Hazelight Studios, focusing on co-op experiences that blend storytelling with gameplay.
His next project, “A Way Out” (2018), was a co-op-only game that emphasized split-screen mechanics and a gripping story of escape and brotherhood. However, it was “It Takes Two” (2021) that became a landmark achievement, winning Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2021. The game’s inventive mechanics, combined with a heartfelt story about a couple navigating a failing marriage, demonstrated Fares’ ability to convey complex emotions through gameplay.
Fares’ passion for storytelling in games is evident. He once stated, “Making video games is way harder than making movies,” highlighting the unique challenges of interactive narratives. His outspoken nature was also on display during the 2017 Game Awards, where his impassioned “Fk the Oscars**” speech went viral, showcasing his candid personality and commitment to the gaming medium.
Personal Life and Family Ties
Josef Fares is the younger brother of Fares Fares, a renowned actor known for roles in films like “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Chernobyl”. Their bond extends into their professional lives, with Fares Fares often appearing in Josef’s projects, creating a collaborative synergy rooted in family ties.
In his personal life, Fares welcomed a daughter, Mio, in October 2020 with his partner, Josefin Dahlberg. Fatherhood has added a new dimension to his storytelling, inspiring themes of family and connection in his recent works.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Josef Fares’ net worth is estimated to be $3 million. His earnings are a mix of revenue from his successful films and the critical acclaim and commercial success of his video games. While details about his assets and investments remain private, Fares’ financial standing is a reflection of his ability to innovate and excel across different mediums.
Challenges and Innovations
Fares’ journey has not been without challenges. Transitioning from film to video games required mastering an entirely new medium. His commitment to co-op gameplay has also been a risky but rewarding endeavor. Unlike traditional single-player experiences, co-op games demand a different approach to pacing, narrative, and mechanics. Yet, Fares’ persistence has paid off, encouraging other developers to explore cooperative storytelling.
His emphasis on cooperative gameplay stems from a desire to foster connection. “When you play with someone, you experience the story together, and that makes it more powerful,” Fares remarked. This philosophy has influenced a generation of game developers to rethink how stories can be told through interactive experiences.
Legacy and Future Plans
Fares’ impact on both the film and gaming industries is undeniable. His ability to blend narrative depth with engaging gameplay has set new standards for storytelling in video games. Looking ahead, Fares continues to innovate with Hazelight Studios, pushing the boundaries of co-op gaming experiences.
In terms of legacy, Fares’ work often explores themes of family, resilience, and survival—echoes of his own life story. His success is not just measured by awards or financial gain but by his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply human level.
