Herman J. Mankiewicz was born on November 7th, 1897

Written by: Grace Lee

Herman J. Mankiewicz: The Uncredited Genius Behind Classic Hollywood Films

Herman J. Mankiewicz is best known for co-writing the screenplay for Orson Welles' 1941 film Citizen Kane, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. However, his contributions to Hollywood extend far beyond this iconic film, with a career spanning over three decades and influencing the trajectory of American cinema.

Early Life and Career

Born on November 7, 1897, in New York City, Mankiewicz was the son of German-Jewish immigrants. His family later moved to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where his father accepted a teaching position. Mankiewicz's early career in journalism took him to Berlin, where he worked as a correspondent for Women's Wear Daily, and later to New York, where he became the assistant theater editor at The New York Times and the first regular drama critic at The New Yorker.

A Writer's Writer

Mankiewicz's writing style, characterized by its slick, satirical, and witty humor, became highly sought after in 1930s Hollywood. His ability to craft dialogue that carried films earned him a reputation as a "fixer" for other writers' screenplays, with much of his work remaining uncredited. Film critic Pauline Kael credited Mankiewicz with having written, alone or with others, about forty films she remembered best from the 1920s and 1930s.

Major Works and Collaborations

In addition to Citizen Kane, Mankiewicz wrote or worked on films including The Wizard of Oz, Man of the World, Dinner at Eight, The Pride of the Yankees, and The Pride of St. Louis. His collaborations with Orson Welles, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and other notable writers and directors of the time cemented his status as a behind-the-scenes genius.

Influence on Modern Society

Mankiewicz's contributions to Hollywood have had a lasting impact on American cinema. His writing style, which prioritized dialogue and satire, paved the way for future generations of writers and filmmakers. Nearly seven decades after his death, Mankiewicz's legacy continues to inspire, with actor Gary Oldman portraying him in the 2020 Oscar-winning film Mank.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• 1897: Born on November 7th in New York City
• 1909: Moved to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
• 1920s: Began career in journalism, working in Berlin and New York
• 1930s: Became a sought-after screenwriter in Hollywood
• 1941: Co-wrote screenplay for Citizen Kane with Orson Welles
• 1953: Passed away on March 5th

Legacy and Honors

Mankiewicz's work continues to be celebrated and studied by cinephiles and writers alike. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of behind-the-scenes talent and the enduring impact of classic Hollywood films.