Philip Kaufman

Born: 1936-10-23

Philip Kaufman (born October 23, 1936) is an American film director and screenwriter. Although not noted for directing a large number of films, the films he has worked on have been recognized for their intelligence and independence. He is noted for directing films of eclectic subjects, ranging from realism to fantasy, and often incorporating satire or subtle humor as part of his “artistic signature.” He was born in Chicago, Illinois. Kaufman has been considered a “risk taker.” He has successfully adapted novels of widely different types – from Milan Kundera’s The Unbearable Lightness of Being to Michael Crichton’s Rising Sun; from Tom Wolfe’s heroic epic The Right Stuff to the erotic writings of Anais Nin’s Henry & June. According to film historian James Welsh, his candid treatment of adult relationships in Henry & June was considered an “artistic breakthrough by an unconventional filmmaker who was willing to take a chance and put his career on the line.” His greatest success was the blockbuster film The Right Stuff, where he directed and wrote the screenplay. It earned eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. And his best films have always had his personal imprint, “stressing values of individualism and integrity,” and always being "clearly American."


Placeholder

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

as City Official on Phone (uncredited) (voice)
Released: 1978-12-20

The residents of San Francisco are becoming drone-like shadows of their former selves, and as...

Movie page

Friedkin Uncut

as Self
Released: 2018-11-05

An introspective insight into the life and artistic journey of William Friedkin, an...

Movie page

Fog City Mavericks

as Himself
Released: 2007-10-24

Fog City Mavericks: The Filmmakers of San Francisco is a compelling exploration of the legendary...

Movie page

Algren

as Self
Released: 2021-10-21

Algren will spotlight the hard-knock life and authentic creative legacy of one of the most...

Movie page

Emotional History: The Making of 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being'

as Self
Released: 2006-02-07

Milan Kundera's rambling novel The Unbearable Lightness of Being, though greatly admired, was...

Movie page