Harold Ramis
Full Name and Common Aliases
Harold Allen Ramis, often affectionately referred to simply as Harold Ramis, was a multi-talented figure in the world of entertainment. Known for his sharp wit and comedic genius, Ramis left an indelible mark on the film industry as a writer, director, and actor.
Birth and Death Dates
Harold Ramis was born on November 21, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away on February 24, 2014, in Glencoe, Illinois. His life spanned nearly seven decades, during which he became a beloved figure in comedy.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Ramis was an American by nationality. His professional repertoire was vast, encompassing roles as a writer, director, actor, and producer. His contributions to comedy and film have made him a revered figure in these fields.
Early Life and Background
Harold Ramis grew up in a Jewish family in Chicago, where he was the second of three children. His parents, Ruth and Nathan Ramis, owned the Ace Food & Liquor Mart on the city's North Side. Ramis attended Stephen K. Hayt Elementary School and later graduated from Nicholas Senn High School. He went on to study at Washington University in St. Louis, where he earned a degree in English Literature in 1966. During his college years, Ramis developed a keen interest in comedy and writing, which would later shape his career.
After college, Ramis briefly worked in a mental institution, an experience he often credited with honing his observational skills and sense of humor. He then returned to Chicago, where he began writing freelance for the Chicago Daily News and joined the improvisational comedy troupe Second City, which became a pivotal point in his career.
Major Accomplishments
Harold Ramis's career was marked by numerous accomplishments that showcased his versatility and creativity. He first gained prominence as a writer and performer on the television show "SCTV" (Second City Television), where his comedic talents were widely recognized. However, it was his work in film that truly cemented his status as a comedy legend.
Ramis co-wrote the screenplay for "National Lampoon's Animal House" (1978), a film that became a cultural phenomenon and set the stage for his future successes. He went on to co-write and star in "Stripes" (1981) alongside Bill Murray, further establishing his reputation in Hollywood.
Notable Works or Actions
One of Ramis's most notable works was the 1984 film "Ghostbusters," which he co-wrote and starred in as Dr. Egon Spengler. The film was a massive success and became a beloved classic, spawning sequels and a franchise that continues to captivate audiences. Ramis's portrayal of the nerdy yet endearing Egon remains iconic.
As a director, Ramis achieved critical acclaim with films such as "Caddyshack" (1980), "Groundhog Day" (1993), and "Analyze This" (1999). "Groundhog Day," in particular, is often cited as one of the greatest comedies of all time, praised for its inventive storytelling and philosophical depth.
Impact and Legacy
Harold Ramis's impact on comedy and film is profound. His ability to blend humor with insightful commentary on human nature set his work apart. He was a pioneer in the comedy genre, influencing a generation of filmmakers and comedians who followed in his footsteps. Ramis's films continue to be celebrated for their wit, charm, and enduring appeal.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ramis was known for his kindness, humility, and collaborative spirit. He mentored many young talents in the industry, leaving a legacy of generosity and inspiration.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Harold Ramis is widely quoted and remembered for his sharp comedic mind and his ability to craft stories that resonate with audiences. His quotes often reflect his unique perspective on life, humor, and the human condition. Whether through his memorable film lines or his insightful interviews, Ramis's words continue to inspire laughter and reflection.
His work remains a testament to the power of comedy to entertain, enlighten, and connect people. As a result, Harold Ramis is not only remembered as a master of his craft but also as a beloved figure whose contributions to entertainment continue to be celebrated and cherished.
Quotes by Harold Ramis
Harold Ramis's insights on:
Chicago still remains a Mecca of the Midwest - people from both coasts are kind of amazed how good life is in Chicago and what a good culture we've got. You can have a pretty wonderful artistic life and never leave Chicago.
The simple idiot's advice I give to screenwriters who say they want to sell a screenplay is, 'Write good.'
There was a moment when we were casting 'Groundhog Day' when Bill Murray was not at the top of my list. He'd been getting crankier and crankier. By the end of 'Ghostbusters II', he was pretty cranky. I thought, 'Do I want to put up with this for twelve weeks?'
I had this 'War and Peace' thing of wanting to experience war as a kind of incredible human enterprise. I even applied to Officer Candidate School. Then the practical side of me kicked in and I thought, 'I really don't want to get drafted.' So I went down to the physical and checked every psychological disorder and drug on the medical history form.
I really only worked for about a month on 'Meatballs.' What happened was that Ivan Reitman figured out that studios wanted to meet everybody involved with 'Animal House' except the producer. So he thought he'd better start directing.
The comic edge of 'Ghostbusters' will always be the same. It's still treating the supernatural with a totally mundane sensibility.
'Analyze This' is a good movie because Robert De Niro and Billy Crystal are really good. But without the material to put on the play, of course, they couldn't be good. For me, it starts with the writing. I always think that the writer is doing the vast majority of the director's work, in a sense.
There's a critic that I love, Manohla Dargis of the 'L.A. Weekly.' I like the underground point of view; it's my old radical sympathies. Maybe I like her because she likes my movies.
You probably can't name more than a handful of comedies that would qualify for Best Picture. I can think of a lot of comedy screenplays; Woody Allen has had numerous nominations for his screenplays. But most comedies are calculated. They tend to pander. They're not about anything important.
I always point out to my Passover guests that the Hebrews were not living in isolation. They were at the crossroads of several great, elaborate cultures with their own mythology and religion and art and architecture and cultural belief. In fact, so many of the mythologies of the world describe the same events, just from different points of view.