American film director. Educated in the fine arts in Paris, he contemplated a career as an artist. He studied drama in London before moving to the United States and working as a theatrical set designer. He transitioned into films in 1908 continuing his design work, expanding slowly into both screen writing and directing. He was especially adept at directing women and became a specialist in romantic dramas. "The Son of the Sheik" (1926) is his most famous extant silent film with Rudolph Valentino. He also directed such stars as Greta Garbo, Mae Murray and Cary Grant. His skill at design technique were evident in his many lavish sets. Over his thirty five year career, he directed a total of 80 films including, "Raffles" (1930), and "Mata Hari" (1931). Many of his films have been lost to decomposition but fortunately, several have been rediscovered at Gosfilmofond, the Russian film vault. As the films are being restored they are winning praise from a new generation of film buffs.
American film director. Educated in the fine arts in Paris, he contemplated a career as an artist. He studied drama in London before moving to the United States and working as a theatrical set designer. He transitioned into films in 1908 continuing his design work, expanding slowly into both screen writing and directing. He was especially adept at directing women and became a specialist in romantic dramas. "The Son of the Sheik" (1926) is his most famous extant silent film with Rudolph Valentino. He also directed such stars as Greta Garbo, Mae Murray and Cary Grant. His skill at design technique were evident in his many lavish sets. Over his thirty five year career, he directed a total of 80 films including, "Raffles" (1930), and "Mata Hari" (1931). Many of his films have been lost to decomposition but fortunately, several have been rediscovered at Gosfilmofond, the Russian film vault. As the films are being restored they are winning praise from a new generation of film buffs.
Bio by: Winter Birds PA
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