Born in France in 1974, Jean-Gabriel has directed several short films, both in video and on film. He has developed his own editing style using archival footage. Blending documentary, animation, and experimental forms, most of his work explores themes of violence and history. His films — including Dies Irae, Even If She Had Been a Criminal…, Nijuman no Borei, and The Devil — have been screened at numerous festivals around the world and have received many awards.

His first feature-length film, A German Youth, opened the Panorama section of the 2015 Berlinale, was released in France (where it was nominated for Best Documentary at the César Awards), in Germany, and in Switzerland, and has won accolades internationally.