Oren Koules

Producer of Saw movie series, producer of Two and a Half Men TV series, former owner Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team

What is Oren Koules known for?

Oren Koules, a distinguished alumna of Lyons Township High School in Lagrange, Illinois, has made significant strides in the worlds of film, television, and sports. Born on January 31, 1961, in La Grange Park, Illinois, Koules developed a passion for ice hockey in his early years. Later, he advanced that enthusiasm into a professional hockey career in major teams such as the Medicine Hat Tigers, Portland Winter Hawks, and Brandon Wheat Kings. In 1980, during his time with the Spokane Flyers, he performed outstandingly, scoring 28 goals along with 45 assists, totaling 73 points.

After his successful hockey career, Koules ventured into the world of entrepreneurship and entered the film industry. He co-founded Evolution Entertainment, which produced the renowned Saw film series and the popular CBS television series Two and a Half Men.

Koules displayed his interest in sports once more, donning the hat of a professional sports executive. He was the owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team and the Helena Bighorns. He didn't just stop there, his diverse professional life also saw him becoming a commodities trader at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in 1983 and forming Peak Productions with Dale Pollock, during which they produced films such as Mrs. Winterbourne and Set It Off.

Marking a milestone in his film career, Koules and his business partner, Mark Burg, produced the thriller film John Q., starring Denzel Washington, in 2002. One of their biggest successes was when they decided to produce the then unknown film 'Saw' in 2004. They funded $1 million of the $1.2 million budget through their newly formed subsidiary, Twisted Pictures. This gamble paid off handsomely as the Saw franchise made $420 million at the box office by 2007.

In conclusion, Oren Koules is a fine example of versatility and ambition. From skating in his early years in La Grange Park to becoming a recognized film producer and sports executive, his journey is an inspiration to the generations of alumni from Lyons Township High School.