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Photo of Richard Leacock

Richard Leacock

Actor, Producer, Editor, Director, Writer, Additional Credits
Born July 18, 1921Died March 23, 2011 (89 years)
Richard Leacock (July 18, 1921 – March 15, 2011) was a pioneering American-born filmmaker, widely regarded as one of the founding figures of the cinéma vérité movement. He was a key influence on the development of observational documentary filmmaking, known for his innovative use of handheld cameras and his emphasis on capturing spontaneous, real-time events. Leacock's most notable works include Primary (1960), which followed John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey during the 1960 Democratic primary campaign, and Chronicle of a Summer (1961), co-directed with Jean Rouch, a landmark film in the cinéma vérité genre. Throughout his career, Leacock collaborated with other influential filmmakers, including Robert Drew and D.A. Pennebaker, and helped shape the way documentaries were made. His legacy continues to influence contemporary documentary filmmakers.

Known For

  • Louisiana Story
  • Chiefs
  • Happy Mother's Day
  • Christopher and Me
  • Lambert, Hendricks & Co.
  • Brussels Loops
  • Frames of Reference
  • Middletown

Filmography

1999
1986
Working Girls · as Joseph
1985
Sherman's March · as Historical Narration
1984
Lulu in Berlin · as Interviewer

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