The Playground of Hollywood

The Playground of Hollywood

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Sidney Lumet, 1924-2011


Sidney Lumet, one of the great directors of all time, passed away this morning at his home in Manhattan due to lymphoma. He was 86. One of the classic filmmakers, he was nominated four times for Best Director, and has also given an honorary Oscar back in 2005.


"While the goal of all movies is to entertain, the kind of film in which I believe goes one step further. It compels the spectator to examine one fact or another of his own conscience. It stimulates thought and sets the mental juices flowing." -- Sidney Lumet


Sidney's career began in television, before he made his way to film. In a career that spands over 50 years, he helmed such classic films as:


12 Angry Men (1957) (nomination)

The Pawnbroker (1964)

Serpico (1973)

Murder on the Orient Express (1974)

Dog Day Afternoon (1975) (nomination)

Network (1976) (nomination)

Equus (1977)

The Verdict (1982) (nomination)

Q & A (1990)

Before the Devil Knows Your Dead (2007)


That's quite the legacy to leave behind. When asked once why he chose to make movies, his response was simple... "It's a wonderful way to spend your life." RIP Sidney.


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