Robert Wise
Robert Wise: A Legendary Filmmaker's Story
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Bernard Wise was an American film director, producer, editor, and screenwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in Hollywood history. He is often referred to by his colleagues and fans simply as "Bob" Wise.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on September 10, 1914, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Robert Wise passed away on September 14, 2005, at the age of 91, in Los Angeles, California.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Wise was an American national by birth, but his career transcended borders, earning him international recognition as a master filmmaker. He excelled as a film director, producer, editor, and screenwriter, leaving behind an impressive legacy that spans over four decades.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a Jewish family, Wise's interest in filmmaking began at a young age. He started working in the movie industry as a cutter (editor) for low-budget films before joining Republic Pictures as a director in 1942. Wise's early life experiences greatly influenced his approach to storytelling, which often reflected themes of social justice and humanity.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his illustrious career, Wise achieved numerous milestones that cemented his status as a Hollywood legend. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
West Side Story (1961): A groundbreaking musical directed by Wise, which won 10 Academy Awards and became the highest-grossing film of its time.
The Sound of Music (1965): A timeless classic that won five Oscars and remains one of the most beloved films in history.
Notable Works or Actions
Wise's filmography boasts a diverse range of genres, including dramas, comedies, musicals, and horror movies. Some notable works include:
Oklahoma! (1955): A classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical that earned Wise his first Academy Award for Best Director.
I Want to Live! (1958): A drama based on the true story of Barbara Graham, which showcased Wise's ability to balance entertainment with social commentary.
The Haunting (1963): A horror classic that has become a cult favorite among film enthusiasts.Impact and Legacy
Wise's impact on the film industry is immeasurable. He was one of the few directors who successfully transitioned from low-budget films to big-budget productions, earning him recognition as a master storyteller. Wise's legacy extends beyond his films; he inspired generations of filmmakers, including some of Hollywood's most renowned directors.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Wise is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful comments on filmmaking, which often reflected his commitment to social responsibility and artistic integrity. Some notable quotes include:
"The key to a good film is not the script, but the people who make it."
* "I don't think of myself as a director; I think of myself as a storyteller."
Wise's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his dedication to his craft and his passion for sharing stories that inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Quotes by Robert Wise
I think one of the major things a director has to do is to know his subject matter, the subject matter of his script, know the truth and the reality of it. That’s very important.
A Mac is a closed box, so Apple can make decisions about things that they don’t include. That makes, it in some ways, simpler for them.
You look back on films sometimes and if they have not been as all-out successful as you anticipated you try to find reasons why maybe it didn’t come off for audiences as well as you would have liked.
As I’ve always said, preproduction is so important. When you cast the actors, you’ve done much of the work. Now, you may need to guide them a little, take it up or down, have them go faster or slower, but the casting process is crucial.
The Sand Pebbles has always been one of my favorite films, I suppose because its the most difficult film – from a physical and logistical standpoint – that I’ve ever made.
A reflection of my feelings about the space program is found in a quotation from Charles A. Lindbergh’s “Autobiography of Values.” It reads, “Whether outwardly or inwardly, whether in space or time, the farther we penetrate the unknown, the vaster and more marvelous it becomes.”
My three Ps: passion, patience, perseverance. You have to do this if you’ve got to be a filmmaker.
My three Ps: passion, patience, perseverance. You have to do this if you've got to be a filmmaker.
As I've always said, preproduction is so important. When you cast the actors, you've done much of the work. Now, you may need to guide them a little, take it up or down, have them go faster or slower, but the casting process is crucial.
I think one of the major things a director has to do is to know his subject matter, the subject matter of his script, know the truth and the reality of it. That's very important.