Lawrence Kasdan

Born:January 14, 1949

Place of Birth:Miami, Florida, USA

Known For:Writing

Biography

Lawrence Kasdan, born on January 14, 1949, is a visionary American filmmaker who has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Renowned for his exceptional talent in writing and directing, Kasdan has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the most iconic films in Hollywood history. His impressive body of work includes co-writing the beloved Star Wars films "The Empire Strikes Back," "Return of the Jedi," "The Force Awakens," and "Solo: A Star Wars Story," as well as the timeless classic "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and the unforgettable "The Bodyguard."

What sets Kasdan apart is his ability to seamlessly blend old Hollywood genres with contemporary social themes, creating films that resonate with audiences on a profound level. His distinctive style, characterized by quick-witted dialogue and deep exploration of characters, has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following. As a director, Kasdan has delved into the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time, crafting poignant narratives that leave a lasting impact.

Throughout his illustrious career, Lawrence Kasdan has garnered four Academy Award nominations, showcasing his exceptional talent and creativity. His collaborations with his family members, including his wife Meg Kasdan, brother Mark Kasdan, and sons Jonathan Kasdan and Jake Kasdan, have resulted in cinematic masterpieces that have stood the test of time. Kasdan's affinity for working with actors like Kevin Kline and William Hurt has led to unforgettable performances that have elevated his films to new heights.

Beyond his accolades and achievements, Lawrence Kasdan's influence extends far beyond the screen, inspiring generations of filmmakers to push boundaries and challenge conventions. His commitment to storytelling and his unwavering dedication to his craft have solidified his legacy as a true cinematic visionary. Lawrence Kasdan's contributions to the world of cinema are nothing short of extraordinary, and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.

Images

Filmography

Acting

As Good as It Gets

Dr. Green

1997

Melvin Udall, a cranky, bigoted, obsessive-compulsive writer of romantic fiction, is rude to everyone he meets, including his gay neighbor, Simon. After Simon is brutally attacked and hospitalized, Melvin finds his life turned upside down when he has to look after Simon's dog. In addition, Carol, the only waitress at the local diner who will tolerate him, leaves work to care for her chronically ill son, making it impossible for Melvin to eat breakfast.

Wyatt Earp

Gambler

1994

From Wichita to Dodge City, to the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Wyatt Earp is taught that nothing matters more than family and the law. Joined by his brothers and Doc Holliday, Earp wages war on the dreaded Clanton and McLaury gangs.

Music by John Williams

Self - Filmmaker

2024

His unforgettable scores are an essential part of some of the most beloved movies of our time, over a career that spans decades. See and hear maestro John Williams' own story, with insights from filmmakers, musicians, and others he has inspired, complete with rare behind-the-scenes looks at the making of movie history.

Into the Night

Detective #2

1985

Ed Okin used to have a boring life. He used to have trouble getting to sleep. Then one night, he met Diana. Now, Ed's having trouble staying alive.

Production

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Writer

2015

Thirty years after defeating the Galactic Empire, Han Solo and his allies face a new threat from the evil Kylo Ren and his army of Stormtroopers.

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Screenplay

1981

When Dr. Indiana Jones – the tweed-suited professor who just happens to be a celebrated archaeologist – is hired by the government to locate the legendary Ark of the Covenant, he finds himself up against the entire Nazi regime.

The Empire Strikes Back

Screenplay

1980

The epic saga continues as Luke Skywalker, in hopes of defeating the evil Galactic Empire, learns the ways of the Jedi from aging master Yoda. But Darth Vader is more determined than ever to capture Luke. Meanwhile, rebel leader Princess Leia, cocky Han Solo, Chewbacca, and droids C-3PO and R2-D2 are thrown into various stages of capture, betrayal and despair.

Solo: A Star Wars Story

Executive Producer

2018

Through a series of daring escapades deep within a dark and dangerous criminal underworld, Han Solo meets his mighty future copilot Chewbacca and encounters the notorious gambler Lando Calrissian.

Return of the Jedi

Screenplay

1983

Luke Skywalker leads a mission to rescue his friend Han Solo from the clutches of Jabba the Hutt, while the Emperor seeks to destroy the Rebellion once and for all with a second dreaded Death Star.

The Bodyguard

Producer

1992

A former Secret Service agent grudgingly takes an assignment to protect a pop idol who's threatened by a crazed fan. At first, the safety-obsessed bodyguard and the self-indulgent diva totally clash. But before long, all that tension sparks fireworks of another sort, and the love-averse tough guy is torn between duty and romance.

Body Heat

Director

1981

In the midst of a searing Florida heat wave, a woman convinces her lover, a small-town lawyer, to murder her rich husband.

Wyatt Earp

Director

1994

Dreamcatcher

Producer

2003

Four boyhood pals perform a heroic act and are changed by the powers they gain in return. Years later, on a hunting trip in the Maine woods, they're overtaken by a vicious blizzard that harbors an ominous presence. Challenged to stop an alien force, the friends must first prevent the slaughter of innocent civilians by a military vigilante ... and then overcome a threat to the bond that unites the four of them.

The Big Chill

Screenplay

1983

Seven old college friends gather for a weekend reunion after the funeral of one of their own.

Silverado

Producer

1985

Four unwitting heroes cross paths on their journey to the sleepy town of Silverado. Little do they know the town where their family and friends reside has been taken over by a corrupt sheriff and a murderous posse. It's up to the sharp-shooting foursome to save the day, but first they have to break each other out of jail, and learn who their real friends are.

French Kiss

Director

1995

After her fiancee admits to infidelity while on a business trip in France, a woman attempts to get her lover back and marry him by traveling to Paris despite her crippling fear of flying. On the way she unwittingly smuggles something of value that has a charming crook chasing her across France as she chases after her future husband.

I Love You to Death

Director

1990

Joey Boca is the owner of a pizza parlour, and has been married to Rosalie for years. When Rosalie discovers that Joey is a womanizer and has been cheating on her for a long time, she goes to extreme lengths to punish him.

The Accidental Tourist

Screenplay

1988

After the death of his son, travel writer Macon Leary seems to be sleep walking through life. Macon's wife is having similar problems. They separate, and Macon meets a strange, outgoing woman who brings him 'back down to earth', but his wife soon thinks their marriage is still worth another try.

In the Land of Women

Producer

2007

After a bad breakup with his girlfriend leaves him heartbroken, Carter Webb moves to Michigan to take care of his ailing grandmother. Once there, he gets mixed up in the lives of the mother and daughters who live across the street.