Dalton Trumbo

Born:December 9, 1905

Place of Birth:Montrose, Colorado, USA

Died:September 10, 1976

Known For:Writing

Biography

Dalton Trumbo, a prolific American screenwriter and novelist, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his groundbreaking work. His refusal to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1947, as part of the Hollywood Ten, showcased his unwavering commitment to his principles and beliefs. Despite being blacklisted and facing immense challenges, Trumbo's talent shone through, earning him two Academy Awards for Best Writing under pseudonyms.

Trumbo's legacy extends far beyond the silver screen, as he fearlessly stood up against the oppressive political climate of his time. His resilience and dedication to his craft serve as an inspiration to many aspiring writers and filmmakers. Through his writing, Trumbo was able to capture the essence of human emotions and societal issues, leaving audiences captivated and introspective.

His Academy Award-winning screenplay for "Roman Holiday" remains a classic in the realm of romantic comedies, showcasing his ability to weave together humor and heart with finesse. The film's timeless appeal and memorable characters are a testament to Trumbo's storytelling prowess and creative vision. Additionally, "The Brave One" stands as a testament to his versatility as a writer, delving into complex themes with depth and nuance.

Trumbo's journey through adversity and triumph serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend barriers and ignite change. His contributions to cinema paved the way for future generations of writers to fearlessly pursue their craft, unencumbered by external pressures. Despite the challenges he faced, Trumbo's passion for storytelling never wavered, leaving an enduring impact on the landscape of American cinema.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Trumbo's personal life and convictions shaped his artistic endeavors, infusing his work with a sense of purpose and integrity. His commitment to his beliefs and refusal to compromise on his principles are reflected in the timeless narratives he brought to life on the screen. Trumbo's ability to infuse his writing with social commentary and thought-provoking themes set him apart as a visionary in the world of storytelling.

As a trailblazer in the industry, Trumbo's influence continues to resonate with audiences and creators alike, underscoring the importance of artistic freedom and expression. His willingness to challenge the status quo and confront injustice through his work solidifies his place as a true iconoclast in Hollywood history. Dalton Trumbo's legacy serves as a beacon of courage and creativity, inspiring storytellers to push boundaries and defy expectations in pursuit of their artistic visions.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Papillon

Commandant (uncredited)

1973

A man befriends a fellow criminal as the two of them begin serving their sentence on a dreadful prison island, which inspires the man to plot his escape.

Trumbo

Himself (archive footage)

2015

The career of screenwriter Dalton Trumbo is halted by a witch hunt in the late 1940s when he defies the anti-communist HUAC committee and is blacklisted.

Johnny Got His Gun

Orator

1971

A young American soldier, rendered in pseudocoma from an artillery shell from WWI, recalls his life leading up to that point.

Production

Spartacus

Screenplay

1960

The rebellious Thracian Spartacus, born and raised a slave, is sold to Gladiator trainer Batiatus. After weeks of being trained to kill for the arena, Spartacus turns on his owners and leads the other slaves in rebellion. As the rebels move from town to town, their numbers swell as escaped slaves join their ranks. Under the leadership of Spartacus, they make their way to southern Italy, where they will cross the sea and return to their homes.

Papillon

Original Film Writer

2017

Henri “Papillon” Charrière, a safecracker from the Parisian underworld, is wrongfully convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in the penal colony of French Guiana, where he forges a strong friendship with Louis Dega, a counterfeiter who needs his protection.

Roman Holiday

Story

1953

Overwhelmed by her suffocating schedule, touring European princess Ann takes off for a night while in Rome. When a sedative she took from her doctor kicks in, however, she falls asleep on a park bench and is found by an American reporter, Joe Bradley, who takes her back to his apartment for safety. At work the next morning, Joe finds out Ann's regal identity and bets his editor he can get exclusive interview with her, but romance soon gets in the way.

Papillon

Screenplay

1973

A man befriends a fellow criminal as the two of them begin serving their sentence on a dreadful prison island, which inspires the man to plot his escape.

The Way We Were

Additional Writing

1973

Opposites attract when, during their college days, Katie Morosky, a politically active Jew, meets Hubbell Gardiner, a feckless WASP. Years later, in the wake of World War II, they meet once again and, despite their obvious differences, attempt to make their love for each other work.

Exodus

Screenplay

1960

Ari Ben Canaan, a passionate member of the Jewish paramilitary group Haganah, attempts to transport 600 Jewish refugees on a dangerous voyage from Cyprus to Palestine on a ship named the Exodus. He faces obstruction from British forces, who will not grant the ship passage to its destination.

Always

Original Film Writer

1989

The spirit of a recently deceased expert pilot mentors a newer pilot while watching him fall in love with the girlfriend that he left behind.

Johnny Got His Gun

Screenplay

1971

A young American soldier, rendered in pseudocoma from an artillery shell from WWI, recalls his life leading up to that point.