Robert L. Surtees

Cinematographer for 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'

Robert L. Surtees - Cinematographer for 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'
Born

1906
119 years ago

Died

January 5th, 1985
40 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American cinematographer, recognized for work on several acclaimed films during the mid-20th century. Started career photographing documentaries before transitioning to feature films. Contributed to the visual style of major productions with a focus on lighting and composition. Collaborated with noted directors and earned critical praise for cinematic techniques. The reputation solidified through multiple Academy Award nominations.

Won Academy Award for Best Cinematography for 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'

Worked on 'King Solomon's Mines'

Contributed to 'The Graduate'

Other People Who Died on January 5th

Hans Conried

American actor and voice artist
Born
April 15th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1982 43 years ago — 64 years old

An actor and voice artist who contributed significantly to both live-action and animated productions. Achieved widespread recognition for portraying Captain Hook in Disney's animated classic 'Peter Pan' and voiced various characters in the TV series 'The Grinch'. Had a prolific career in radio, television, and film, showcasing versatility across multiple genres.

Continue Reading

Asghar Khan

Pakistani General and Politician
Born
January 17th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2018 7 years ago — 96 years old

A three-star general and politician in Pakistan, contributed significantly to military and political spheres. Served as the Chief of the Pakistan Air Force from 1965 to 1969, overseeing critical developments during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. Transitioned to politics post-retirement, establishing a political party aimed at addressing national issues. Advocated for democracy and played a role in various political movements throughout the late 20th century. Remained a prominent figure until later years, participating in discussions around democracy and governance in Pakistan.

Continue Reading

Soh Jaipil

Journalist and Korean independence activist
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1951 74 years ago — 87 years old

A journalist and activist, this individual advocated for Korean independence from Japanese rule. Emigrating to the United States, established a Korean-language newspaper in Los Angeles, promoting awareness of the Korean struggle. Played a significant role in organizing Korean expatriates for political activism and published works that highlighted the desire for national sovereignty. Contributed to various initiatives aimed at garnering support for the Korean independence movement and engaged with other prominent figures of the era to further these goals.

Continue Reading

Alfred Thomas Agate

American painter and illustrator of nature
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1846 179 years ago — 34 years old

Worked primarily as a painter and illustrator, contributing significantly to the documentation of American landscapes and wildlife. Involved with scientific expeditions, provided detailed depictions of fauna and flora. Collaborated with naturalists and explorers during the mid-19th century, producing illustrations that enhanced scientific understanding of the natural world. Exhibited works at prestigious institutions, gaining recognition for the precision and detail in botanical and zoological illustrations.

Continue Reading

Vasko Popa

Serbian poet and academic recognized for contemporary poetry
Born
June 29th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1922, one of the pivotal figures in Serbian literature, focused on avant-garde poetry. His work often explored themes of folklore, myth, and existentialism. Contributed significantly to the literary scene in Yugoslavia and influenced many writers with innovative forms and styles. Authored several notable collections, including 'The Little Box' and 'The Eternal Introduction'. Served as a professor of literature, mentoring a generation of poets and scholars until his death in 1991.

Continue Reading

Peter Christen Asbjørnsen

Norwegian author and fairy tale collector
Born
January 15th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1885 140 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed significantly to Norwegian folklore through collections of fairy tales. Collaborated with Jørgen Moe to compile and publish 'Norske Folkeeventyr', a cornerstone of Scandinavian literature that captures traditional stories and legends. Worked as a scholar, promoting Norwegian culture and heritage during a time of national awakening.

Continue Reading