Nicholas Ray

Nicholas Ray

Born:August 7, 1911

Place of Birth:Galesville, Wisconsin, USA

Died:June 16, 1979

Known For:Directing

Biography

Nicholas Ray, born Raymond Nicholas Kienzle on August 7, 1911, left an indelible mark on American cinema as a pioneering film director. His legacy is defined by his unique vision and his ability to challenge the conventions of the Hollywood studio system. Ray's filmography includes iconic works such as "Rebel Without a Cause" and "Johnny Guitar," which have solidified his reputation as a masterful storyteller.

One of Ray's most celebrated achievements is the 1955 classic "Rebel Without a Cause," which starred the legendary James Dean. This film not only showcased Ray's directorial prowess but also captured the essence of teenage angst and rebellion in a way that resonated with audiences for generations to come. Ray's ability to delve into complex characters and themes set him apart as a filmmaker ahead of his time.

Beyond "Rebel Without a Cause," Ray's body of work is a testament to his versatility and innovation. From the gripping crime drama "They Live By Night" to the psychological thriller "In A Lonely Place," Ray demonstrated a keen understanding of human emotions and motivations. His use of color and composition within the CinemaScope format further solidified his status as a visionary director.

Throughout his career, Ray received critical acclaim and recognition for his contributions to cinema. Nominated for prestigious awards such as the Academy Award and the Golden Lion, Ray's impact extended far beyond the confines of Hollywood. His influence on the French New Wave movement, as noted by Jean-Luc Godard, speaks to the transcendent nature of his artistry.

In addition to his more mainstream successes, Ray also ventured into experimental filmmaking with projects like "We Can't Go Home Again." This willingness to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons showcases Ray's adventurous spirit and his commitment to pushing the medium of film to its limits.

Despite his tumultuous relationship with the Hollywood establishment, Ray's uncompromising vision and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the pantheon of great filmmakers. His films continue to captivate audiences and inspire aspiring directors to this day. Nicholas Ray's legacy as a cinematic trailblazer endures, leaving an indelible mark on the history of American cinema.

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Nicholas Ray
Nicholas Ray
Nicholas Ray
Nicholas Ray

Filmography

Acting

Hair

Hair

The General

1979

Upon receiving his draft notice and leaving his family ranch in Oklahoma, Claude heads to New York and befriends a tribe of long-haired hippies on his way to boot camp.
Rebel Without a Cause

Rebel Without a Cause

Man in Last Shot (uncredited)

1955

After moving to a new town, troublemaking teen Jim Stark is supposed to have a clean slate, although being the new kid in town brings its own problems. While searching for some stability, Stark forms a bond with a disturbed classmate, Plato, and falls for local girl Judy. However, Judy is the girlfriend of neighborhood tough, Buzz. When Buzz violently confronts Jim and challenges him to a drag race, the new kid's real troubles begin.
55 Days at Peking

55 Days at Peking

US Minister (uncredited)

1963

Diplomats, soldiers and other representatives of a dozen nations fend off the siege of the International Compound in Peking during the 1900 Boxer Rebellion. The disparate interests unite for survival despite competing factions, overwhelming odds, delayed relief and tacit support of the Boxers by the Empress of China and her generals.

Production

King of Kings

King of Kings

Director

1961

Who is Jesus, and why does he impact all he meets? He is respected and reviled, emulated and accused, beloved, betrayed, and finally crucified. Yet that terrible fate would not be the end of the story.
Rebel Without a Cause

Rebel Without a Cause

Story

1955

After moving to a new town, troublemaking teen Jim Stark is supposed to have a clean slate, although being the new kid in town brings its own problems. While searching for some stability, Stark forms a bond with a disturbed classmate, Plato, and falls for local girl Judy. However, Judy is the girlfriend of neighborhood tough, Buzz. When Buzz violently confronts Jim and challenges him to a drag race, the new kid's real troubles begin.
In a Lonely Place

In a Lonely Place

Director

1950

A screenwriter with a violent temper is a murder suspect until his lovely neighbor clears him. However, she soon starts to have her doubts.
55 Days at Peking

55 Days at Peking

Director

1963

Diplomats, soldiers and other representatives of a dozen nations fend off the siege of the International Compound in Peking during the 1900 Boxer Rebellion. The disparate interests unite for survival despite competing factions, overwhelming odds, delayed relief and tacit support of the Boxers by the Empress of China and her generals.
Johnny Guitar

Johnny Guitar

Director

1954

On the outskirts of town, the hard-nosed Vienna owns a saloon frequented by the undesirables of the region, including Dancin' Kid and his gang. Another patron of Vienna's establishment is Johnny Guitar, a former gunslinger and her lover. When a heist is pulled in town that results in a man's death, Emma Small, Vienna's rival, rallies the townsfolk to take revenge on Vienna's saloon – even without proof of her wrongdoing.