Ari was born in January, 1996.

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Grew up in Ra'anana, Israel. Son of Michel Opatowki, a painter, graphic designer and a key figure in the art scene of 70's Tel Aviv (Deceased in 2004), and of Ruthie Vital - Gilad, a poet, children's book author and a host of cultural events.

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The passion for filmmaking and cinema in general goes back to elementary school. Along the way there was film studies in high school (theory and practice), and a 3 year mandatory service in the military. Filming and creating short videos were a way to continue the artistic flame through the combat service. After completing the service, he traveled to Southeast Asia, Europe (including the Camino De Santiago) and North Africa.