Samuel Z. Arkoff
Film producer and executive producer
Film producer and executive producer
1918
107 years ago
Artists & Creatives
United States
An American film producer made significant contributions to the motion picture industry, primarily during the 1950s to 1980s. Established American International Pictures, a studio renowned for low-budget but successful films, particularly in the horror and exploitation genres. Worked with various directors and screenwriters to produce numerous cult classics. Pioneered the use of marketing strategies that became prevalent in the film industry. Involved in the production of over 500 feature films, influencing the landscape of independent cinema.
Founded American International Pictures
Produced 'The Beach Party' series
Produced 'I Was a Teenage Werewolf'
Produced 'The Amityville Horror'
An American singer-songwriter and actor, achieved prominence in the 1950s. Gained fame with the novelty song 'The Purple People Eater,' which topped the Billboard charts in 1958. Also contributed to television and film, appearing in the series 'Rawhide' and 'The Kettles in the Ozarks.' Career in entertainment spanned several decades, transitioning between music and acting, becoming a well-recognized figure in both fields.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1928, this playwright made significant contributions to American theater. His career spanned several decades, with notable plays that explored complex themes of identity, relationships, and human behavior. 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?', premiered in 1962, is one of his most recognized works, showcasing the tumultuous marriage between George and Martha. The playwright also received several prestigious awards throughout his career, including three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama.
Continue ReadingAn American physicist and academic, contributed to the field of optics and photonics. Invented the laser in the 1950s and coined the term 'laser', standing for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Although the invention faced patent disputes, secured a patent in 1977 after several legal battles. Served as a professor and held various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAn American novelist, poet, and short story writer, produced several works that became part of the countercultural movement of the 1960s. The most recognized work is "Trout Fishing in America," a blend of humor and surrealism that illustrates life and the American landscape. Other notable works include "In Watermelon Sugar" and "The Tokyo-Montana Express." Contributed significantly to postmodern literature and gained a following that resonated with themes of loss, nature, and individuality.
Continue ReadingServed as a prominent Roman Catholic priest and exorcist throughout a significant portion of his life. Gained attention for public discussions about spiritual warfare and the practice of exorcism. Authored several books on the subject, with notable works including 'An Exorcist Tells His Story'. Actively involved in conducting exorcisms, addressing both spiritual and psychological concerns related to demonic possession. Contributed to the dialogue about exorcism within the Catholic Church and broader society.
Continue ReadingAn engineer and fashion designer originally from France, revolutionized swimwear by introducing the bikini in 1946. This two-piece bathing suit challenged traditional designs and quickly became a defining symbol of women's beachwear. The design was initially controversial but eventually gained widespread popularity, influencing fashion and culture significantly. Réard’s innovations extended beyond the bikini, as he contributed to the evolution of swimwear aesthetics throughout his career, reflecting the changing attitudes towards body image and femininity.
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