Jan Němec

Czech film director and screenwriter

Jan Němec - Czech film director and screenwriter
Born

July 12th, 1936
88 years ago

Died

March 18th, 2016
9 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Czech Republic

Links & References

Contributed to the New Wave movement in Czech cinema during the 1960s. Directed several notable films, including 'Diamonds of the Night', which depicted the struggles of two Jewish boys escaping from a transport to a concentration camp. Němec faced censorship after the Prague Spring in 1968, leading to his exile from Czechoslovakia for over two decades. After returning, continued to create films, often focusing on themes of memory and identity. 'The Party and the Guests' was another significant work that critiqued totalitarianism.

Directed 'Diamonds of the Night'

Directed 'The Party and the Guests'

Other People Born on July 12th

Butch Hancock

Country-folk singer-songwriter and musician
Born
July 12th, 1945 79 years ago

Active since the 1970s, this artist contributed significantly to the Texas music scene. Hailing from Lubbock, created a unique blend of country, rock, and folk music. Worked closely with fellow artists in the Flatlanders, a group that became influential in American roots music. Released numerous solo albums showcasing lyrical depth and storytelling. Recognized for a career spanning decades, with a focus on themes of love, loss, and the American experience.

Continue Reading

Phillip Adams

Australian journalist and radio producer
Born
July 12th, 1939 85 years ago

A prominent journalist and radio producer with a career spanning several decades. Played a significant role in Australian media, contributing to programs across various platforms. Served as a regular commentator and hosted influential radio shows, focusing on social and political issues. Engaged in public debates and discussions on key national topics, fostering dialogue and awareness.

Continue Reading

Eugène Boudin

French landscape painter of seaside scenes
Born
July 12th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1898 126 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent 19th-century French painter, recognized for contributions to landscape painting and seascapes. Boudin primarily painted coastal scenes, often depicting the beaches of Normandy. He was an early supporter of plein air painting, capturing natural light and atmosphere in his works. Boudin influenced the Impressionist movement, guiding younger artists in their exploration of outdoor scenes. His technique and style laid groundwork for painters such as Claude Monet. Boudin exhibited widely and received acclaim for his depictions of light and water.

Continue Reading

Irina Bokova

Bulgarian Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
July 12th, 1952 72 years ago

Served as the Bulgarian Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2009 to 2014. Held the position of Director-General of UNESCO from 2009 to 2017. Promoted education, heritage preservation, and international cooperation during tenure at UNESCO. Engaged in various initiatives focused on cultural diversity and the importance of education in global development.

Continue Reading

Ben Burtt

Sound Designer for Star Wars franchise
Born
July 12th, 1948 76 years ago

American director, screenwriter, and sound designer contributed significantly to film sound design. Creations include iconic sound effects that became integral to the Star Wars franchise. Developed techniques and tools used extensively in the industry, including the invention of the lightsaber sound. Worked on various major films and was involved in the production of documentaries. Awards include multiple Academy Awards for sound editing.

Continue Reading

George Eastman

Businessman, founder of Kodak
Born
July 12th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 79 years old

An American businessman established a company that revolutionized photography. The introduction of the Kodak camera in 1888 made photography accessible to the general public. This innovative company developed roll film, simplifying the process of capturing images. The success of Kodak contributed significantly to the growth of the photographic industry and the popularization of personal photography. Later, the company expanded its product line to include motion picture film and other photographic equipment, solidifying its influence in the field.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 18th

Muhammad Mahmood Alam

Pakistani general and fighter pilot
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a general in the Pakistan Air Force and achieved the rank of Air Vice Marshal. Participated in the Second Indo-Pakistani War in 1965 as a fighter pilot. Demonstrated exceptional aerial combat skills, becoming one of the most decorated pilots in Pakistani history. Notably, achieved significant air victories during the conflict.

Continue Reading

Thomas Hopko

American Orthodox priest and theologian
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 76 years old

Ordained as a priest in the Orthodox Church, served as Dean of St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Contributed significantly to the dialogue between Orthodox and other Christian traditions. Authored numerous theological works including 'The Orthodox Faith' series, which explores the essential beliefs and practices of the Orthodox Church. Actively engaged in teaching and lecturing on Orthodox theology across various settings.

Continue Reading

Omid Reza Mir Sayafi

Iranian journalist and blogger
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 29 years old

Worked primarily as a journalist and blogger in Iran. Focused on civil rights issues and freedom of expression. Committed to reporting on social and political topics despite facing significant risks. Died in custody under suspicious circumstances, drawing attention to the treatment of journalists in Iran.

Continue Reading

Jean Leon Gerome Ferris

American painter of historical scenes
Born
August 8th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1930 95 years ago — 66 years old

A painter, recognized for historical and patriotic subjects, primarily created works that depict significant American events and figures. Developed a unique style that combined realism with romanticism. His painting 'The Signing of the Declaration of Independence' is one of the most notable works, illustrating the pivotal moment in American history. Involved in various exhibitions and received accolades for contributions to American art.

Continue Reading

George I of Greece

King of Greece, expanded territory
Born
December 24th, 1845 179 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1913 112 years ago — 67 years old

Reigned as king from 1863 until assassination in 1913. Oversaw the expansion of Greece's territory, including the acquisition of the Ionian Islands and parts of Thessaly. Strengthened the economy and modernized the armed forces during the late 19th century. Engaged in diplomatic efforts that contributed to Greece's involvement in the Balkan Wars. Assassination occurred in Thessaloniki, which led to political changes in the country.

Continue Reading

John FitzAlan

14th Earl of Arundel, English nobleman
Born
February 14th, 1408 617 years ago
Died
March 18th, 1272 753 years ago — -136 years old

Born in 1408, held the title of 14th Earl of Arundel. During the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses, aligned with the Yorkist faction. Played a significant role in the political landscape of England. Served as a Member of Parliament and engaged in several military campaigns on behalf of the king. Inherited vast estates and demonstrated capacity for management and governance.

Continue Reading