Life began his career in feature films and worked on the epic "Ragtime" and "Trading Places," starring Eddie Murphy. He also produced and directed "Reunion," starring Academy Award-winner Denzel Washington. In television, he has served as director and production executive for "The Cosby Show" and director of "A Different World."

"Struggle and Success," which chronicles the lives of African Americans who have chosen to live in Japan, has appeared on PBS and has been exhibited nationally in a tour sponsored by the National Association of Japan Societies. His work has been recognized with four CINE Golden Eagle Awards, a Sony Innovator award and a silver award from the Houston Worldfest.