Basil Dearden

Film director and screenwriter of 'The League of Gentlemen'

Basil Dearden - Film director and screenwriter of 'The League of Gentlemen'
Born

January 1st, 1911
114 years ago

Died

1971
54 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

In the early 20th century, a distinguished English film director, producer, and screenwriter emerged. This individual gained recognition in the British film industry for directing several influential films. 'The League of Gentlemen' established a significant presence, blending humor and crime elements. Other notable works include 'Victim' and 'The Hill', both of which explored complex themes relevant to society. Throughout a prolific career spanning several decades, contributions to cinema included a focus on social issues and character-driven narratives. Collaborations with prominent actors and crews enhanced the quality and depth of the projects. The legacy left behind continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.

Directed 'The League of Gentlemen'

Directed 'Victim'

Directed 'The Hill'

Other People Born on January 1st

Abdul Ahad Mohmand

Afghan astronaut and military colonel
Born
January 1st, 1959 66 years ago

Born in 1959, served as a colonel in the Afghan Air Force and became the first Afghan to travel to space. Flew aboard the Soyuz TM-6 mission in 1988, participating in a scientific research program. Contributed to the development of aviation in Afghanistan and held various military leadership positions throughout a career dedicated to air operations.

Continue Reading

Ismail al-Faruqi

Philosopher and academic on Islam
Born
January 1st, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

A Palestinian-American philosopher and academic contributed significantly to Islamic philosophy and cultural studies. Focused on the synthesis of Islamic thought and modernity. Served as a professor at Temple University, where influential academic programs on Islamic studies were developed. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and emphasized the importance of understanding diverse perspectives within the Islamic tradition.

Continue Reading

Patrick Anthony Porteous

Scottish Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2000 25 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a colonel in the British Army and received the Victoria Cross for gallantry during World War II. His notable action took place at the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy, where he displayed exceptional valor in the face of enemy fire. This act of bravery led to the awarding of the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor in the British and Commonwealth forces.

Continue Reading

E. M. Forster

English author known for A Passage to India
Born
January 1st, 1879 146 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1970 55 years ago — 91 years old

An English author and playwright, this figure significantly contributed to 20th-century literature. Most influential works include the novels 'A Room with a View,' 'Howards End,' and 'A Passage to India.' Exploration of themes such as class distinction, personal relationships, and the clash of cultures marked the author's writing. Additionally, wrote the libretto for the opera 'Billy Budd' by Benjamin Britten and adapted 'Maurice' into a screenplay. Contributions to literary criticism and essays further showcased the author's viewpoints on literature and society.

Continue Reading

Anthony Hamilton-Smith

English dentist and politician, 3rd Baron Colwyn
Born
January 1st, 1942 83 years ago

Born in 1942, an English dentist and politician held the title of 3rd Baron Colwyn. Educated at St John's College, Cambridge, pursued a career in dentistry and became involved in politics. Elected to the House of Lords in 1997, served as an active member and contributed to discussions on health and dental issues. Also associated with various charitable organizations and served on several committees focusing on public health. Extensive experience in local government, holding positions in administration.

Continue Reading

Kim Philby

British spy and intelligence officer
Born
January 1st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1988 37 years ago — 76 years old

A notable figure in British intelligence, played a key role during the Cold War. Worked for MI6 while secretly cooperating with the Soviet Union. Philby's espionage activities led to critical intelligence breaches affecting Western security. His treachery was part of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring. In 1963, defected to the Soviet Union, where he lived for the remainder of his life.

Continue Reading