John Woo

Film director and producer, renowned for action

John Woo - Film director and producer, renowned for action
Born

May 1st, 1946
79 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

Hong Kong

Links & References

A prominent director, producer, and screenwriter in Hong Kong cinema. Developed a distinctive style characterized by action sequences and moral themes. Directed the iconic films 'A Better Tomorrow', 'The Killer', and 'Hard Boiled', which have been influential in the action genre. Transitioned to Hollywood with 'Face/Off' and 'Mission: Impossible 2'. His works often feature themes of brotherhood and redemption, contributing to the popularity of the heroic bloodshed genre. Received multiple awards for contributions to film, including the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Director.

Directed 'A Better Tomorrow'

Created 'Hard Boiled'

Produced 'Face/Off'

Directed 'Mission: Impossible 2'

Other People Born on May 1st

Clint Malarchuk

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
May 1st, 1961 64 years ago

Played as a goaltender in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Quebec Nordiques and the Washington Capitals. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching roles within professional hockey as well as at the junior level. Gained attention for a traumatic on-ice incident in 1989 that resulted in a severe injury.

Continue Reading

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

French priest and philosopher of evolution
Born
May 1st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1955 70 years ago — 73 years old

A French priest, theologian, and philosopher, contributed to the field of paleontology while integrating religious beliefs with scientific thought. Worked as a Jesuit and developed ideas around the evolution of consciousness and spirituality. Wrote influential works, including 'The Phenomenon of Man' and 'The Divine Milieu', which reflect the synthesis of faith and science. Engaged in significant paleontological expeditions, particularly in China, where discoveries included the remains of Peking Man.

Continue Reading

Sonny James

Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
May 1st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter and guitarist began a career in the late 1950s and achieved significant success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The music style combined traditional country with a soft pop influence, appealing to a broad audience. Several hit songs topped the country charts, and a notable career highlight included a lengthy string of 16 consecutive number one hits. The artist also became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, representing the genre on a prominent stage.

Continue Reading

Ulric Cross

Trinidadian diplomat and judge
Born
May 1st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 4th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

A navigator, judge, and diplomat from Trinidad, contributed significantly to the fields of law and international relations. Served as a judge on the Caribbean Court of Justice and contributed to the establishment of various legal frameworks in the Caribbean. Actively participated in the independence movement in various Caribbean nations, advocating for self-governance. Held several key diplomatic roles, representing his country and region in various international forums.

Continue Reading

Cecilia Beaux

American painter and academic
Born
May 1st, 1855 170 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1942 82 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1855, this painter gained recognition for portraits and was influential in the academic art community. She studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and in Europe, absorbing various artistic techniques. The artist's work often included intimate family portraits and social scenes, showcasing a blend of realism and impressionism. Teaching at institutions such as the Pennsylvania Academy, she guided many aspiring artists. This painter achieved acclaim during her lifetime, exhibiting in prestigious venues and gaining memberships in significant art organizations. Her contributions to the field of portraiture have been well documented and celebrated in art history.

Continue Reading

Romaine Brooks

American-French painter, notable for portraits
Born
May 1st, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1874, created artworks characterized by bold use of color and a distinctive style. Studied at the Académie Julian in Paris and became part of the American expatriate community. Primarily focused on portraiture, with notable works depicting strong female figures. Contributed to the visual arts in the early 20th century, celebrated for capturing the essence of her subjects. Active in showcasing works at several prominent exhibitions, including the Salon d'Automne.

Continue Reading