A French screenwriter, director, and actor, born in France, to actress Arlette Thomas. He is the father of actor Adrien Jolivet. He began his artistic career in 1968 and was a member of the jury of the 2003 Venice Film Festival. He is known for Filles uniques (2003), Le frère du guerrier (2002), A Mere Mortal (1991), and Strictly Personal (1985).