Introduction
Irvin Kershner was an American film director and producer who was best known for directing the Star Wars sequel, The Empire Strikes Back. He was born on April 29, 1923, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and started his career as a documentary filmmaker. Kershner directed several other critically acclaimed films throughout his career, including Eyes of Laura Mars and Never Say Never Again. In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of Irvin Kershner, the director behind Empire Strikes Back.
Early Life and Career
Kershner was born to Russian Jewish immigrant parents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended the University of Southern California and later studied at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. Kershner started his career as a documentary filmmaker, working on several films for the United States Information Agency.
He made his feature film debut with the 1958 crime drama Stakeout on Dope Street. The film was well received by critics and marked the beginning of Kershner’s career as a feature film director. He went on to direct several other films in the 1960s and 1970s, including The Luck of Ginger Coffey, A Fine Madness, and Up the Sandbox.
Directing Empire Strikes Back
In 1979, Kershner was approached by George Lucas to direct the sequel to the hugely successful Star Wars film. Kershner initially turned down the offer, but Lucas convinced him to take on the project. The Empire Strikes Back was released in 1980 and was a critical and commercial success. It is widely regarded as one of the best Star Wars films and is often cited as one of the greatest sequels of all time.
Kershner’s direction was praised for its darker tone and more complex character development. He also introduced new characters, such as Yoda and Lando Calrissian, who have become iconic in the Star Wars universe. Kershner’s work on The Empire Strikes Back cemented his place in film history and earned him a loyal fan base.
Other Films and Legacy
After The Empire Strikes Back, Kershner went on to direct several other films, including the horror film Eyes of Laura Mars and the James Bond film Never Say Never Again. He also worked as a producer and director on several television shows, including the pilot episode of the hit series SeaQuest DSV.
Kershner passed away on November 27, 2010, at the age of 87. He left behind a legacy as a talented and innovative filmmaker who made significant contributions to the film industry. His work on The Empire Strikes Back continues to inspire filmmakers and fans alike, and his influence can be seen in many of today’s blockbuster films.
Conclusion
Irvin Kershner was a visionary filmmaker who made a significant impact on the film industry. His work on The Empire Strikes Back is a testament to his talent and creativity, and his legacy continues to inspire filmmakers today. Kershner’s contributions to cinema will not be forgotten, and his films will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for generations to come.
FAQ
Who is Irvin Kershner?
Irvin Kershner was an American film director, best known for directing the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy, The Empire Strikes Back.
What is The Empire Strikes Back?
The Empire Strikes Back is a 1980 epic space opera film directed by Irvin Kershner. It is the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy and is considered one of the best films in the franchise.
What other films did Irvin Kershner direct?
Apart from The Empire Strikes Back, Irvin Kershner directed several other films, including A Fine Madness, Eyes of Laura Mars, and Never Say Never Again.
What was Irvin Kershner’s directing style?
Irvin Kershner was known for his attention to detail and his ability to bring out the best in his actors. He was also known for his use of innovative camera techniques and his ability to create a sense of intimacy between the characters and the audience.
What was Irvin Kershner’s impact on the Star Wars franchise?
Irvin Kershner’s direction of The Empire Strikes Back is widely regarded as one of the main reasons why the film is considered the best in the Star Wars franchise. He brought a darker, more complex tone to the film, which helped to deepen the characters and expand the Star Wars universe.
