Roger Corman, a legendary figure in the world of independent film and B movies, passed away on May 9, 2023 at the age of 98. Known for his prolific producing career that spanned over half a century and his direction of roughly 50 films, Corman left an indelible mark on American cinema. His work includes cult classics like 'A Bucket of Blood,' 'The Masque of the Red Death,' and 'The Wild Angels.' He also helped launch the careers of many successful directors including Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Ron Howard, and Jonathan Demme.
Corman's approach to filmmaking was unique. He believed in creating films that provided catharsis and tapped into the unconscious mind with horror. His drive-in fillers often had titles that were better than their plots, but his dedication to independent film and nurturing young talent set him apart.
Born in 1926, Corman began acting, producing, and directing in the 1950s after graduating from Stanford University and serving in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife Julie Halloran and children Catherine, Roger Jr., Brian, and Mary.
Martin Scorsese remembered Corman as a mentor who taught him how to make films with discipline within tight schedules. Ron Howard wrote that Corman influenced his career by producing Howard's first movie as a director, 'Grand Theft Auto.'
Corman's impact on the film industry is undeniable. He filled America's drive-ins with hundreds of low-budget movies and left a legacy that continues to inspire independent filmmakers today.