Jean-Marc Vale: Canadian director dies aged 58

Canadian director Jean-Marc Valais, whose works include the Dallas Buyers Club and Wild, died at 58. The Oscar-nominated director also won an Emmy for his HBO series The Big Little Lies. Longtime producer Nathan Ross confirmed in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that he died over the weekend in Quebec City, though the cause of death was not disclosed.

"He was a true artist or a generous and compassionate man," he wrote. "Everyone who worked with him couldn't help but see his talent and vision.

"He was my friend, creative partner, and big brother to me. He will miss the maestro very much, but it's nice to know that the beautiful style and impactful work he has shared with the world will endure.

"Phenomenal talent"

In a separate statement, HBO added that Vallée is a "brilliant and passionate director, a truly phenomenal talent who brings deep emotional truth to every scene."

"We are shocked by the news of his sudden death, and we extend our condolences to his sons Alex and Emil, his extended family, and longtime production partner Nathan Ross.

Cameron Bailey, executive director of the Toronto International Film Festival, also paid tribute to him, describing him as "an extraordinary talent."

The Montreal-born director started making music videos before shooting his debut thriller Black List in 1995 and the critically acclaimed adult film C.R.A.Z.Y. in 2005.

Her 2009 film Young Victoria, which starred British actress Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria, won three Academy Award nominations.

But perhaps his most popular work came in 2013 with the Dallas Buyers Club, the emotional story of Ron Woodruff selling experimental drugs to other AIDS patients in Texas.