A renowned film producer and academic, credited with producing iconic films like Chariots of Fire and Midnight Express, and serving as a champion of British cinema.
David Puttnam is a British-Irish film producer, educator, environmentalist, and former member of the House of Lords, renowned for producing some of the most iconic and award-winning films of all time, including Chariots of Fire, The Mission, The Killing Fields, and Midnight Express.
Puttnam's journey in film production began in the late 1960s, when he turned to film production after a successful stint in advertising. He worked with Sanford Lieberson's production company Goodtimes Enterprises, producing his first feature film, Melody, in 1971.
Throughout his illustrious career, Puttnam has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to cinema. In 1982, he was awarded the BAFTA for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema, and in 2006, he received the BAFTA Fellowship for lifetime achievement from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.
Beyond his film career, Puttnam has been an active advocate for environmental causes and education. Between 1997 and 2021, he sat on the Labour benches in the House of Lords, and in 2019, he was appointed chair of the select committee on democracy and digital technologies.
Puttnam was born on February 25, 1941, in Southgate, London, England, to Marie Beatrix, a housewife of Jewish origin, and Leonard Arthur Puttnam, a photographer. He was educated at Minchenden Grammar School in London and began his career in advertising before transitioning to film production.
David Puttnam's contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on the film industry. His productions have inspired generations of filmmakers and continue to be celebrated for their cinematic excellence. As an educator, environmentalist, and public servant, Puttnam's influence extends far beyond the realm of cinema, shaping the conversations around democracy, technology, and social responsibility.
Born in 1923
A renowned actor, director, and producer who brought iconic films like "Gandhi" and "Jurassic Park" to life, earning numerous awards and accolades.
91 Years Old
A talented actor and screenwriter, best known for his Oscar-winning screenplay for the film "Chariots of Fire" and his iconic line "I'd like to thank the Academy from the heart of my bottom!"
