Robert Mark Kamen is a prominent American screenwriter celebrated for crafting some of the most iconic action and adventure films in modern cinema. Born on October 9, 1947, Kamen rose to fame as the creator and writer of The Karate Kid franchise, a cultural phenomenon that began in 1984 and has since spawned sequels, a reboot, and the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai. His gift for writing heartfelt stories of perseverance and mentorship laid the groundwork for the franchise’s enduring popularity.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Kamen formed a successful creative partnership with French filmmaker Luc Besson, leading to his involvement in a series of high-octane, globally popular films. Among his most notable collaborations are the screenplays for The Fifth Element (1997), a visually imaginative sci-fi cult classic originally conceived by Besson, and the Transporter and Taken franchises, both of which blended sleek action with compelling narratives and became major international hits.
Outside of Hollywood, Robert Mark Kamen has embraced a more serene lifestyle as a winemaker. He owns and operates Kamen Estate Wines, producing premium wines from his vineyards in the scenic hills of Sonoma, California. Balancing storytelling and viticulture, Kamen continues to be a multifaceted creator whose impact on both film and wine culture is deeply felt.
