A pioneering cinematographer and actor, known for his innovative camera work and collaborations with directors like Roman Polanski and Brian De Palma. He won an Academy Award for his cinematography on "Chinatown".
John A. Alonzo, ASC, was a trailblazing American cinematographer, television director, and actor renowned for his groundbreaking work in both film and television. He is best known for his iconic cinematography in the neo-noir classic Chinatown (1974) and the crime epic Scarface (1983), earning him Academy Award and BAFTA nominations for his work on the former.
Alonzo's path-breaking career was marked by numerous achievements, including being the first American cinematographer of Mexican-American descent to join the Cinematographers Union in Los Angeles and the first to be inducted into the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC). His pioneering work in handheld camera operations, lighting techniques, and high-definition video development raised the bar for cinematographers worldwide.
Alonzo's journey began humbly as part of the cleanup crew at television station WFAA in Dallas. However, his dedication and versatility soon propelled him to become an indispensable asset, directing cooking and children's shows, and even creating a popular comedy duo with actor Hank Williamson. Their show, featuring Alonzo as the voice and puppeteer of Seor Turtle, introduced movies and cartoons, eventually getting picked up by station KHJ in Hollywood.
A chance meeting with cinematographer Charles Lang during the shooting of The Magnificent Seven (1960) proved a turning point for Alonzo. Inspired by Lang's work, Alonzo eventually devoted his life to cinematography. A brief collaboration with James Wong Howe a few years later further solidified his decision.
By the mid-1960s, Alonzo was photographing numerous documentaries for National Geographic and the David L. Wolper Productions. His work on these documentaries honed his skills, preparing him for the cinematic masterpieces that would soon follow.
Alonzo's contributions to the world of cinematography have been recognized with numerous awards and inductions. Apart from his Academy Award and BAFTA nominations, he was also honored with a Primetime Emmy and inducted into the ASC. His legacy continues to inspire generations of cinematographers, filmmakers, and film enthusiasts alike.
John A. Alonzo passed away on March 13, 2001, leaving behind a rich cinematic heritage. His life's work serves as a testament to his innovative spirit, dedication, and passion for the art of cinematography.
Born in 1924
A cultural icon who revolutionized acting with his intense, nuanced performances, earning him numerous accolades, including two Oscars. He's synonymous with iconic roles in "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "The Godfather".
94 Years Old
Iconic actor of 1950s Hollywood, symbolizing youthful rebellion and nonconformity through memorable roles in "Rebel Without a Cause," "East of Eden," and "Giant."
Born in 1909
A pioneering filmmaker who directed iconic movies like "On the Waterfront" and "East of Eden," and was a key figure in the development of the Actors Studio.
Born in 1901
A pioneer of method acting, he developed a systematic approach to acting that emphasized emotional recall and sense memory, influencing generations of actors. 82
68 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actor renowned for his intense preparation and immersion into characters, bringing complexity and depth to iconic roles in films like "Lincoln" and "There Will Be Blood".
82 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actor, entrepreneur, director, and producer, renowned for iconic roles in films like "Taxi Driver" and "Raging Bull", and his versatility in both dramatic and comedic performances.
85 Years Old
Iconic actor and director renowned for intense, gritty performances in films like "The Godfather" and "Scarface", leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
88 Years Old
Academy Award-winning legend of Hollywood's golden age, starring in iconic films like "Easy Rider," "Chinatown," and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," with a career spanning over 60 years.
