
Personal Info
Known For
Directing
Gender
Male
April 28, 1980 (45 years old)
Idaho, USA
Also Known As
- Christopher Appelhans
Chris Appelhans
Biography
Chris Appelhans (born April 28, 1980) is an American illustrator, production designer, and director known for writing/directing Sony Pictures Animation's Wish Dragon (2021) and co-directing KPop Demon Hunters (2025). He started as a concept artist for films like Monster House, The Princess and the Frog, and Coraline, earning an Annie Award nomination for Coraline, and has illustrated children's books like A Greyhound, a Groundhog. He studied at Art Center College of Design and resides in Los Angeles with his wife, author Maurene Goo. Their son was born in 2020.
Known For
Acting
Directing

KPop Demon Hunters
Director, Screenplay
2025

Wish Dragon
Director, Writer
2021

Rise of the Guardians
Art Department Manager, Additional Writing, Character Designer
2012

Puss in Boots
Visual Development
2011

The Princess and the Frog
Visual Development
2009

Fantastic Mr. Fox
Art Department Manager
2009

Coraline
Art Department Manager
2009

City of Ember
Conceptual Design
2008

Monster House
Conceptual Design
2006
