Member-only story

The Life and Films of John Sturges: A Wisconsin Studies in Film

Beau Carter

·19.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Escape Artist: The Life And Films Of John Sturges (Wisconsin Studies In Film)

4 min read

518 View Claps

40 Respond

Save

Listen

John Sturges was born in Oak Park, Illinois, on January 3, 1910. His father was a lawyer, and his mother was a homemaker. Sturges attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he studied journalism. After graduating from college, Sturges worked as a reporter for the Milwaukee Sentinel. In 1932, he moved to Hollywood and began working as a screenwriter.

Escape Artist: The Life and Films of John Sturges (Wisconsin Studies in Film)

by Glenn Lovell

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3914 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	344 pages

Sturges's early screenplays were mostly Westerns and war films. In 1940, he directed his first film, The Great McGinty. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it launched Sturges's career as a director.

Sturges went on to direct some of the most iconic Westerns and war films ever made. His Westerns include Bad Day at Black Rock (1955),Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957),and The Magnificent Seven (1960). His war films include The Great Escape (1963),Ice Station Zebra (1968),and The Eagle Has Landed (1976).

Sturges's films are known for their strong characters, exciting action sequences, and beautiful cinematography. He was a master of the Western genre, and his films helped to define the genre for decades to come.

Sturges died in Woodland Hills, California, on August 18, 1992. He was 82 years old.

Wisconsin Roots

John Sturges was born in Illinois, but he spent his formative years in Wisconsin. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and he worked as a reporter for the Milwaukee Sentinel. Sturges's Wisconsin roots had a profound impact on his life and career.

The Midwest values of hard work, honesty, and integrity were instilled in Sturges at a young age. These values are evident in his films, which often feature characters who are strong, determined, and courageous.

Sturges's Wisconsin roots also gave him a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved spending time in nature, and he often used the landscape of Wisconsin as a backdrop for his films.

Legacy

John Sturges was one of the most successful and prolific directors of the 20th century. He directed over 50 films, including some of the most iconic Westerns and war films ever made. Sturges's films are still enjoyed by audiences today, and they continue to influence filmmakers around the world.

Sturges's legacy is not only his films, but also his impact on the film industry. He was a mentor to many young filmmakers, and he helped to shape the careers of some of the most successful directors in Hollywood.

John Sturges was a true American filmmaker. His films are a testament to his talent, his dedication, and his love of the art of filmmaking.