Baran bo Odar was born in Olten, Switzerland on April 18 1978. From 1998 to 2005, he studied film at the renowned HFF Munich, followed by a one year master class. In 2003, he participated in Berlinale Talent Campus, and two years later, his short "Quietsch" premiered at the 55th Berlinale and went on to win several awards at international festivals. His 60-mintute graduation film "Unter der Sonne" was screened at over 40 festivals and also won several awards, including the prize for Best Camera at the 2006 Slamdance Festival.

Also in 2006, Baran bo Odar was contracted by the Neue Sentimental Film Ag as a director for advertisements. He helmed several ads, including spots for Panasonic and Sony. His ad for the Mini Cooper, titled "Hadi Mini", won several prizes and was nominated for the 2006 First Steps Award. Along with his filmmaking career, he began teaching classes at the University Sankt Gallen and the HFF.

Featuring a prominent cast, the psychological thriller "Das letzte Schweigen" (2010) marked his feature film debut as director.