Written by: Emma Thompson

Gavin Lambert: The Screenwriter Who Chronicled Hollywood's Golden Age

Gavin Lambert was a British-born screenwriter, novelist, and biographer who made a lasting impact on the film industry with his work, which spanned several decades. He is best known for his fiction and non-fiction writings about Hollywood, which offered a unique perspective on the industry during its golden age.

A Literary Upbringing

Lambert's educational background played a significant role in shaping his writing career. He attended Cheltenham College and later Magdalen College, Oxford, where he was fortunate to have C.S. Lewis as one of his professors. It was during his time at Oxford that he befriended Penelope Houston, Karel Reisz, and Lindsay Anderson, with whom he founded the influential journal Sequence.

Early Writing Career

Lambert's writing career took off in the late 1940s when he edited the journal Sight and Sound, alongside Lindsay Anderson as a regular contributor. He was also deeply involved in Britain's Free Cinema movement, which called for more social realism in contemporary movies. His film criticism was published in The Sunday Times and The Guardian, showcasing his expertise in the field.

A Hollywood Sojourn

In 1955, Lambert moved to Hollywood, California, where he worked as a personal assistant to director Nicholas Ray. He worked on the script of Ray's film Bigger Than Life (1956) and later co-wrote the screenplay for Bitter Victory (1957). Lambert's time in Hollywood not only honed his skills as a screenwriter but also introduced him to the inner workings of the film industry.

A Life of Travel and Writing

Lambert became an American citizen in 1964, but his love for travel and writing led him to spend a significant amount of time in Tangier, Morocco, from 1974 to 1989. During this period, he developed a close friendship with the writer and composer Paul Bowles. He eventually settled in Los Angeles, where he spent the final years of his life, passing away on July 17, 2005.

Legacy and Impact

Gavin Lambert's contributions to the film industry are multifaceted. His writings about Hollywood offer a unique perspective on the industry during its golden age. His work on films like Bigger Than Life and Bitter Victory showcased his skill as a screenwriter. Moreover, his involvement in the Free Cinema movement helped shape the course of British filmmaking.

Awards and Honors

Lambert's papers are currently housed at the Howard Gotlieb Archival Research Center, a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of film and literature.

Through his writing, Lambert left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire film enthusiasts and writers alike. His work serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of chronicling the human experience.