During his time at Klamath Union High School, from which he graduated in 1987, Eyre developed an interest in black-and-white photography, leading him to pursue further education in television production at Mt.
[7][2] Following his initial success, Eyre directed several other significant films such as Skins (2002), which was shot on the Pine Ridge Reservation, and Edge of America (2003), which won a Peabody Award.
[2] Eyre's second film, Skins (2002), is the story of two brothers on the Pine Ridge Reservation, a tribal cop and a Vietnam vet battling alcohol and emotional problems.
Edge of America (2004) is loosely based on the true story of a black English teacher who goes to the Three Nations Reservation to teach, but ends up coaching the very underachieving girls basketball team and takes them all the way to the state finals.
His work, deeply reflective of his rural, Klamath Falls upbringing, often explores themes beyond Native American stories, focusing on universal human experiences and the spirit of living vicariously through varied characters.
Eyre has also made contributions to television, directing episodes of popular series like Law & Order and Friday Night Lights.
[14][15] Chris Eyre's directorial style is characterized by its poignant storytelling, rich character development, and deep respect for cultural values.
[16][12] Chris Eyre's upbringing in Klamath Falls with his adoptive parents instilled in him a love for the rural aesthetics and simple pleasures of life, such as driving pickups.
His search for his birth mother, Rose Lumpmouth, and discovery of his roots have profoundly impacted his personal life and professional work, infusing his projects with themes of identity, belonging, and reconciliation.
His personal experiences and background not only shape his filmmaking perspective but also drive his commitment to telling stories that resonate with authenticity and depth.