Norman Jewison, 1926-2024: A remarkable life
The Legendary Career of Filmmaker Norman Jewison
Let’s take a moment to truly appreciate the incredible career of filmmaker Norman Jewison. After his recent passing at the remarkable age of 97, it begs the question: is there any other living filmmaker who can claim to have directed such a diverse range of iconic stars? From Edward G. Robinson to Sidney Poitier, Doris Day to Steve McQueen, and Al Pacino to Cher, Jewison worked with them all.
Many of these stars were not only nominated for Oscars but also took home the coveted award. This speaks volumes about Jewison’s longevity and, more importantly, his ability to adapt. While Hollywood’s Golden Age was coming to an end in the early 1960s, Jewison refused to be left behind. Instead, he made himself relevant by catering to changing audience preferences.
When the era of superficial romantic comedies began to fade, Jewison shifted gears and embraced hipper material and edgier stars. Films like “The Cincinnati Kid” (1965) and “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1968), both starring the charismatic Steve McQueen, showcased Jewison’s ability to stay ahead of the curve. And when the public demanded movies that reflected the tumultuous times, he delivered with the powerful “In the Heat of the Night” (1967).
Some may accuse Jewison of artistic opportunism, but he simply understood the pulse of his audience. Whether he was directing lighthearted confections or thought-provoking dramas, his sincerity and dedication to entertaining and challenging viewers were undeniable.
A Journey from Toronto to Hollywood
Born in Toronto, Jewison had the advantage of growing up far from the glitz and glamour of the American movie industry. His early experiences in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II and his involvement in student theater at Victoria College in Toronto shaped his character and instilled in him a humane gentleness that would define his later films.
After gaining recognition as a director of specials with renowned entertainers like Judy Garland, Danny Kaye, and Harry Belafonte, Jewison transitioned to feature films. Initially known for his featherweight comedies, he soon proved his versatility by collaborating with the intense and captivating Steve McQueen.
However, it was “In the Heat of the Night” that marked a turning point in Jewison’s career. This groundbreaking film, starring Sidney Poitier, tackled issues of racism and injustice in small-town Mississippi. It set the tone for many of Jewison’s subsequent movies, which were not only well-acted and well-produced but also carried powerful liberal messages.
While some may have dismissed Jewison’s later films as overly sentimental, they remain a testament to his literary and empathetic approach. In comparison to the intolerant leftism prevalent in Hollywood today, Jewison’s films are a breath of fresh air, embodying humanitarian sentiments.
A Lasting Legacy
Jewison’s influence extended beyond his films. He nurtured the talents of filmmakers like Hal Ashby, who later became a counterculture icon. Despite his liberal convictions, Jewison maintained a charming squareness that allowed him to create lavish musicals like “Fiddler on the Roof” (1971) and “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1973) in the early 1970s.
Later in his career, Jewison showcased his sense of humor with the delightful romantic comedy “Moonstruck” (1987), which served as a breakthrough for Cher and Nicolas Cage. He continued to make films until he was rightfully honored with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1999.
Norman Jewison was a truly decent man, and Hollywood recognized this by honoring him. As we bid farewell to this legendary filmmaker, we can’t help but wonder if he may be the last of his kind.
Peter Tonguette is a contributing writer to the Washington Examiner magazine.
How did Jewison’s films address social and political issues?
On with his work in Canadian television, Jewison made the move to Hollywood in the early 1960s. He faced challenges and setbacks like any aspiring filmmaker, but his determination and talent eventually paid off.
Jewison’s breakout film, “The Cincinnati Kid”, earned critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a director to watch. He followed it up with the iconic “In the Heat of the Night”, which not only won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, but also became a cultural touchstone for its exploration of racism and prejudice in America.
Jewison’s filmography is a testament to his versatility and range as a filmmaker. Whether it was directing large-scale musicals like “Fiddler on the Roof” (1971) or intimate character-driven dramas like “Moonstruck” (1987), he effortlessly navigated between genres and brought his unique vision to each project.
One of Jewison’s most notable achievements is his dedication to social and political issues. His films often tackled important themes and sparked conversations. Movies like “A Soldier’s Story” (1984), “The Hurricane” (1999), and “The Statement” (2003) explored racism, injustice, and corruption. Jewison used his platform to shine a light on topics that needed attention, proving that filmmaking can be a powerful tool for change.
Beyond his impressive filmography, Jewison’s impact on the film industry as a whole cannot be overlooked. He founded the Canadian Film Centre, a world-renowned institution that has trained and nurtured countless aspiring filmmakers. His commitment to supporting and fostering emerging talent is a testament to his generosity and dedication to the art form.
In recognition of his achievements, Jewison received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was honored with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award at the 1999 Academy Awards and was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
As we bid farewell to this legendary filmmaker, it is important to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind. Norman Jewison’s films continue to captivate and inspire audiences, and his contributions to the industry will not be forgotten. His commitment to storytelling, his ability to adapt and evolve, and his unwavering passion for making thought-provoking cinema have solidified his place in cinematic history.
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