26 Facts About William Friedkin

Early Life and Education

William Friedkin's journey into filmmaking began with a fascinating early life and education. Here are some intriguing facts about his formative years:

1. 01Born on August 29, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Friedkin grew up in a Jewish family.
2. 02His parents were immigrants from Ukraine, adding a rich cultural background to his upbringing.
3. 03Friedkin attended Senn High School, where he developed an interest in sports and filmmaking.
4. 04At 16, he saw the movie "Citizen Kane," which inspired him to pursue a career in film.
5. 05He didn't attend college but instead started working in the mailroom of a local TV station, WGN-TV.

Career Beginnings

Friedkin's early career was marked by a series of interesting jobs and projects that paved the way for his success in Hollywood.

6. 06He began his career directing live television shows and documentaries.
7. 07His first notable work was a documentary titled "The People vs. Paul Crump" in 1962, which helped commute a death row inmate's sentence.
8. 08Friedkin moved to Hollywood in the mid-1960s to pursue a career in feature films.
9. 09He directed episodes of popular TV shows like "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" and "The Bold Ones: The New Doctors."
10. 10His first feature film was "Good Times" (1967), a musical comedy starring Sonny and Cher.

Breakthrough with "The French Connection"

Friedkin's career took a monumental leap with the release of "The French Connection," a film that would become a classic.

11. 11"The French Connection" (1971) was based on a true story about a drug bust in New York City.
12. 12The film starred Gene Hackman as Detective Popeye Doyle, a role that earned Hackman an Academy Award.
13. 13Friedkin won the Academy Award for Best Director for "The French Connection."
14. 14The film also won four other Oscars, including Best Picture.
15. 15Its famous car chase scene is considered one of the greatest in film history.

"The Exorcist" Phenomenon

Friedkin's next major success was "The Exorcist," a film that would become a cultural phenomenon and redefine the horror genre.

16. 16"The Exorcist" (1973) was based on William Peter Blatty's novel of the same name.
17. 17The film tells the story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity and the priests who try to save her.
18. 18It was one of the highest-grossing films of its time, earning over $441 million worldwide.
19. 19"The Exorcist" received ten Academy Award nominations, winning two.
20. 20The film's special effects and makeup were groundbreaking for its time.

Later Career and Legacy

Friedkin continued to make impactful films throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.

21. 21He directed "Sorcerer" (1977), a remake of the French film "The Wages of Fear."
22. 22"To Live and Die in L.A." (1985) is another notable film, known for its realistic depiction of police work.
23. 23Friedkin also directed "Bug" (2006), a psychological horror film based on a play by Tracy Letts.
24. 24He received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival in 2013.
25. 25Friedkin has been married four times, including to actress Jeanne Moreau and producer Sherry Lansing.
26. 26He remains an influential figure in the film industry, known for his bold storytelling and innovative techniques.

The Legacy of William Friedkin

William Friedkin's impact on cinema is undeniable. From "The Exorcist" to "The French Connection," his films have left an indelible mark on the industry. His fearless approach to storytelling and willingness to push boundaries set him apart. Friedkin's work continues to inspire filmmakers and captivate audiences. His dedication to his craft and his ability to evoke strong emotions through his films make him a true legend in the world of cinema. As we reflect on his career, it's clear that his contributions will be remembered for generations. Whether you're a film buff or just someone who enjoys a good movie, Friedkin's films offer something special. His legacy is a testament to the power of bold, innovative filmmaking.