What Happened This Year 2003
People Who Died in 2003
Stan Brakhage
An influential figure in experimental cinema, created innovative films that challenged traditional narrative structures. Pioneered techniques such as hand-painted film and the use of non-professional actors. Focused on personal vision and subjective experience, often drawing from nature and dreams. Significant works include 'Dog Star Man' and 'Mothlight', which explored visual perception through unconventional methodologies. A prolific filmmaker, directed over 350 films during his career, contributing to the development of avant-garde filmmaking.
Continue ReadingLynne Thigpen
An American actress and singer, gained recognition for roles in theater, television, and film. Most notable role was as the teacher on the PBS children's program 'Reading Rainbow'. Appeared in various productions, showcasing talents in both acting and music. Received significant acclaim for her performances. Contributed to the entertainment industry with a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingHoward Fast
A prominent American novelist and screenwriter, contributed greatly to literature and film. Wrote over 50 novels, with significant works including 'Citizen Tom Paine', a biography of the American revolutionary, and 'Spartacus', which was adapted into a motion picture in 1960. Early works often reflected socialist themes and historical narratives, leading to political controversy during the McCarthy era. Served a prison sentence for refusing to testify before Congress regarding communist affiliations. Additionally, wrote screenplays, achieving recognition in both literary and cinematic fields.
Continue ReadingZoran Đinđić
Served as the 6th Prime Minister of Serbia from January 2001 until his assassination in March 2003. Focused on reforms and integration into the European Union. Played a vital role in the overthrow of Slobodan Milošević's regime in 2000. Promoted a pro-democratic environment and advocated for market-oriented economic policies.
Continue ReadingJack Goldstein
An influential figure in the development of conceptual art during the 1970s. Worked primarily in the medium of painting but also explored film and installation. Played a significant role in the California artist scene and became a prominent member of the Fluxus movement. Goldstein's works often engaged with the themes of representation and illusion within art. Contributed to the shift towards postmodernist aesthetics with a focus on self-reflexivity and the nature of the medium.
Continue ReadingJean-Luc Lagardère
An engineer and businessman, significant contributions were made to the media and aerospace industries. Founded Lagardère Group, which became a leading international media conglomerate with interests in publishing, broadcasting, and sports management. Oversaw the expansion of the company into various sectors and international markets, enhancing its growth. Played a crucial role in the privatization of the Aerospatiale-Matra group, which became a key player in the aerospace sector.
Continue ReadingThora Hird
A prominent figure in British television and film, gained recognition for performances in various genres throughout a lengthy career. Featured in the sitcom 'Last of the Summer Wine' in a role that became iconic. Starred in numerous films, earning acclaim for both comedic and dramatic roles. Had a strong presence in radio and performed in plays, showcasing versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingPaul Stojanovich
A television producer specialized in unscripted programming. Created and produced the series World's Wildest Police Videos, which showcased real police chases and arrests. The program contributed to the popularity of reality television in the 1990s. Stojanovich's work emphasized the often dramatic situations faced by law enforcement and included various segments such as high-speed pursuits and standoff scenarios. The show became a significant part of American pop culture during its run and influenced subsequent reality-based series.
Continue ReadingRachel Corrie
An activist engaged in nonviolent protest against the demolition of Palestinian homes in the Gaza Strip. In March 2003, while working with the International Solidarity Movement, involvement in a protest action led to being killed by an Israeli bulldozer during a demonstration. Corrie's efforts raised awareness of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and drew attention to human rights issues in the region. Her writings and diary entries were later compiled into a play, which further sparked discussions about activism and its implications.
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