Richard Donner
Biography: Richard Donner (born Richard Donald Schwartzberg; April 24, 1930–July 5, 2021) was an American film director and producer. Described as "one of Hollywood's most reliable makers of action blockbusters," Donner directed some of the most financially successful films of the 1970s and 1980s. His 50-year career crossed genres and influenced trends among filmmakers across the world. Donner began his career in 1957 as a television director. In the 1960s, he directed episodes of the series The Rifleman, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., The Fugitive, The Twilight Zone, The Banana Splits, and many others. Donner made his film debut with the low-budget aviation drama X-15 in 1961 but had his critical and commercial breakthrough with the horror film The Omen in 1976. He directed the landmark superhero film Superman in 1978, which provided an inspiration for the fantasy film genre to eventually gain artistic respectability and commercial dominance. Donner later went on to direct films in the 1980s such as The Goonies and Scrooged, while reinvigorating the buddy cop film genre with the Lethal Weapon series. Donner and his wife, Lauren, owned a production company, The Donners' Company, which is most successful for producing the Free Willy and X-Men film franchises. Donner also produced Tales from the Crypt and co-wrote several comic books for Superman publisher DC Comics. In 2000, Donner received the President's Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films. Description above from the Wikipedia article Richard Donner, licensed under CC-BY-SA, full list of contributors on Wikipedia.
Place of Birth: Not available
Birthday: April 24, 1930
Deathday: July 05, 2021
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Known For
Look, Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of Superman
2006-06-12
Look, Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of Superman
Overview: The history of the comic book superhero, Superman, in his various media incarnations.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-06-12
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No Subtitles Necessary: Laszlo & Vilmos
2009-01-11
No Subtitles Necessary: Laszlo & Vilmos
Overview: The artistry, triumph and lifelong friendship of the great cinematographers Laszlo Kovacs and Vilmos Zsigmond. With film school equipment, they shoot the Soviet crackdown of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. As refugees they struggle in Hollywood, finally breaking into the mainstream with their pivotal contribution to the "American New Wave."
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2009-01-11
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Close Encounters with Vilmos Zsigmond
2016-05-13
Close Encounters with Vilmos Zsigmond
Overview: A very special encounter between legendary American cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond and young French director Pierre Filmon. A personal journey with the brightest shadowmaker and his friends.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2016-05-13
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Davi's Way
2018-07-13
Davi's Way
Overview: Actor/singer Robert Davi gives himself one year to recreate Frank Sinatra's fabled 'Main Event' concert in Madison Square Garden to celebrate the centenary of Sinatra's birth.
Genres: Documentary Music
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2018-07-13
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666: The Omen Revealed
2000-09-05
666: The Omen Revealed
Overview: Documentary about the making of The Omen, featuring interviews with Richard Donner, Harvey Bernhard, David Seltzer and others.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2000-09-05
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Tales from the Warner Bros. Lot
2013-01-15
Tales from the Warner Bros. Lot
Overview: Actors, crew and executives who worked at Warner Bros. Pictures recall their days at the studio.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2013-01-15
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Necessary Evil: Super-Villains of DC Comics
2013-10-23
Necessary Evil: Super-Villains of DC Comics
Overview: A documentary detailing the epic Rogues' Gallery of DC Comics from The Joker and Lex Luthor, Sinestro, Darkseid and more, this documentary will explore the Super Villains of DC Comics.
Genres: Documentary Action Crime
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2013-10-23
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Film Music Masters: Jerry Goldsmith
1995-10-20
Film Music Masters: Jerry Goldsmith
Overview: A limited DVD (1500 copies) of "Film Music Masters: Jerry Goldsmith" was released in June 2005. Bonus features included extended interviews and 60 minutes of scoring session footage of Mr. Goldsmith working on The River Wild.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1995-10-20
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Laddie: The Man Behind the Movies
2017-11-12
Laddie: The Man Behind the Movies
Overview: Profile of the producer and former studio head of 20th Century Fox in the 1970s, Alan Ladd Jr.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2017-11-12
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Starz Inside: Comic Books Unbound
2008-06-10
Starz Inside: Comic Books Unbound
Overview: From superheroes to superstars, Hollywood has always turned to comic books for imagination and inspiration. In this Starz Inside documentary, discover the history of comics from page to screen through the evolution and revolutions that have changed entertainment forever. It's a hero's journey of hits, misses and unstoppable powers, featuring the Spider-Man, X-Men, and Batman films (including The Dark Knight), Iron Man, Superman Returns, Hellboy II, Sin City, Incredible Hulk, American Splendor, Wanted, and beyond, plus revealing interviews with Guillermo del Toro, Stan Lee, Zak Penn, Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Neal Adams, Roger Corman, Avi Arad, Mike Mignola, Paul Pope, Richard Donner, Jim Steranko, and many more.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2008-06-10
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Superman
1978-12-14
Superman
Overview: Mild-mannered Clark Kent works as a reporter at the Daily Planet alongside his crush: Lois Lane. Clark must summon his superhero alter-ego when the nefarious Lex Luthor launches a plan to take over the world.
Genres: Science Fiction Action Adventure
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1978-12-14
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Making of a Cult Classic: The Unauthorized Story of 'The Goonies'
2010-07-13
Making of a Cult Classic: The Unauthorized Story of 'The Goonies'
Overview: A retrospective documentary of the cult classic movie The Goonies. Including interviews with the cast, exploration of the film's locations and unique stories you wont hear anywhere else.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2010-07-13
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Scream Greats, Vol.2: Satanism and Witchcraft
1986-10-21
Scream Greats, Vol.2: Satanism and Witchcraft
Overview: Documentary tracks the rise of devil cults, witches and other elements of the "black arts."
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1986-10-21
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Conspiracy Theory
1997-08-08
Conspiracy Theory
Overview: A man obsessed with conspiracy theories becomes a target after one of his theories turns out to be true. Unfortunately, in order to save himself, he has to figure out which theory it is.
Genres: Action Drama Mystery Thriller
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1997-08-08
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Taking Flight: The Development of 'Superman'
2001-05-01
Taking Flight: The Development of 'Superman'
Overview: Marc McClure presents a documentary on the making of 'Superman' (1978).
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2001-05-01
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The Making of 'Superman: The Movie'
1980-01-01
The Making of 'Superman: The Movie'
Overview: Ernie Anderson narrates this look at the making of Richard Donner's blockbuster 1978 film. Behind-the-scenes footage, as well as scenes from the film, reveal just how audiences were able to "believe a man can fly." This program features interviews with key cast and crew.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1980-01-01
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Making 'Superman': Filming the Legend
2001-01-01
Making 'Superman': Filming the Legend
Overview: Documentary on the making of the 1978 film 'Superman.'
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2001-01-01
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First Works
1989-10-10
First Works
Overview: It's a mixed bag in the age of illuminating DVD supplements, but First Works effectively demonstrates the early promise of 13 successful filmmakers. Culled from programs originally broadcast on Showtime in 1990, this crude compilation combines student films, early professional work, and interviews with now-famous directors at various stages of commercial and artistic achievement.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1989-10-10
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Life After Flash
2017-10-02
Life After Flash
Overview: A look at the roller coaster life of Sam J. Jones since his role as Flash Gordon, his struggles and successes, and the aftermath of when he went up against one of the most powerful producers in Hollywood.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2017-10-02
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Making Apes: The Artists Who Changed Film
2019-01-30
Making Apes: The Artists Who Changed Film
Overview: Fifty years after its release, the special effects makeup team behind Planet of the Apes reflect on making the iconic film.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2019-01-30
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The Curse of 'The Omen'
2005-10-26
The Curse of 'The Omen'
Overview: The filming of "The Omen" (1976) was plagued by tragedy and bizarre incidents. "The devil was at work and he didn't want that film made" - Producer Harvey Bernhard.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2005-10-26
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Marlon Brando: An Actor Named Desire
2014-09-20
Marlon Brando: An Actor Named Desire
Overview: In his early days as an actor, Marlon Brando (1924-2004) was a shy young man with theatrical ambitions, like many others; but his charisma and superb acting skills made him truly unique, so that the doors to the starry sky of Hollywood opened for him. However, his peculiar manners, political commitment and complicated love life always overshadowed his artistic success.
Genres: Documentary TV Movie
Original Language: fr
Release Date: 2014-09-20
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The Goonies
1985-06-07
The Goonies
Overview: A young teenager named Mikey Walsh finds an old treasure map in his father's attic. Hoping to save their homes from demolition, Mikey and his friends Data Wang, Chunk Cohen, and Mouth Devereaux run off on a big quest to find the secret stash of Pirate One-Eyed Willie.
Genres: Adventure Comedy Family
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1985-06-07
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Valerie
2019-08-07
Valerie
Overview: A documentary of the incredible life of actress Valerie Perrine and her battle with Parkinson's.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2019-08-07
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Superman II
1980-12-12
Superman II
Overview: Three escaped criminals from the planet Krypton, who have the same powers on Earth as Superman, test the Man of Steel's mettle. Led by General Zod, the Kryptonians take control of the White House and partner with Lex Luthor to destroy Superman and rule the world. But Superman, who made himself human in order to get closer to Lois, realizes he has a responsibility to save the planet.
Genres: Science Fiction Action Adventure
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1980-12-12
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Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics
2010-11-09
Secret Origin: The Story of DC Comics
Overview: A look at the history of the comic book publication that launched such legendary characters as Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2010-11-09
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Maximum Impact: The Legacy of 'Lethal Weapon'
2012-07-04
Maximum Impact: The Legacy of 'Lethal Weapon'
Overview: This documentary showcases producer Joel Silver, Donner, Gibson, Glover, Rene Russo and other members of all four films' production teams as they examine the franchise, look at the various social issues each film tackled, attempt to measure the series' cultural impact and, of course, touch on its legacy, for the actors, the filmmakers and audiences the world over.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2012-07-04
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Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut
2006-11-02
Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut
Overview: Superman agrees to sacrifice his powers to start a relationship with Lois Lane, unaware that three Kryptonian criminals he inadvertently released are conquering Earth.
Genres: Science Fiction Action Adventure
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-11-02
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Maverick
1994-05-20
Maverick
Overview: Maverick is a gambler who would rather con someone than fight them, and needs an additional three thousand dollars in order to enter a winner-takes-all poker game that begins in a few days, so he joins forces with a woman gambler with a marvellous southern accent, and the two try and enter the game.
Genres: Action Adventure Comedy Drama Western
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1994-05-20
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Timeline
2003-11-26
Timeline
Overview: A group of archaeological students become trapped in the past when they go there to retrieve their professor. The group must survive in 14th century France long enough to be rescued.
Genres: Action Adventure Science Fiction
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2003-11-26
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Inside Moves
1980-12-19
Inside Moves
Overview: After a failed suicide attempt leaves him partially crippled, Rory begins spending a lot of time at a neighborhood bar full of interesting misfits. When Jerry the bartender suddenly finds himself playing basketball for the Golden State Warriors, Rory and the rest of the bar regulars hope his success will provide a lift to their sagging spirits. Will Jerry forget his friends? What about his junkie hooker girlfriend and her pimp?
Genres: Drama
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1980-12-19
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Out Cold
2001-11-21
Out Cold
Overview: Rick Rambis and his friends are having the time of their lives on Bull Mountain—until the legendary Papa Muntz' son decides to sell the mountain to a sleazy land developer, have the staff fired and turn Bull Mountain into 'Yuppieville'.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2001-11-21
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16 Blocks
2006-03-01
16 Blocks
Overview: An aging cop is assigned the ordinary task of escorting a fast-talking witness from police custody to a courthouse, but they find themselves running the gauntlet as other forces try to prevent them from getting there.
Genres: Action Adventure Crime Thriller
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-03-01
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Casting By
2012-11-01
Casting By
Overview: This essential new documentary pays tribute to the legacy of the late, legendary casting director Marion Dougherty and shines a light on one of the most overlooked and least understood crafts in filmmaking.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2012-11-01
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You Will Believe: The Cinematic Saga of Superman
2006-11-28
You Will Believe: The Cinematic Saga of Superman
Overview: A 5-part documentary of the history of Superman in the movies. • Origin - Superman in the media and the challenges the Salkinds faced • Vision - Creating the right script, Choosing the right director and casting the right actors • Ascent - The production and launch of a new kind of fantasy film • Crisis - Complications and conflicts between the creative forces behind Superman II • Redemption - Criticisms and burnout of Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-11-28
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Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
2024-09-21
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
Overview: Christopher Reeve portrayed the Man of Steel in four Superman films and played dozens of other roles that displayed his talent and range as an actor, before being injured in a near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. After becoming a quadriplegic, he became a charismatic leader and activist in the quest to find a cure for spinal cord injuries, as well as a passionate advocate for disability rights and care.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2024-09-21
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Superman II: Restoring the Vision
2006-11-28
Superman II: Restoring the Vision
Overview: Behind the chaotic history and development of Richard Donner's cut of Superman II.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-11-28
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