Alan Parker — the famed British director behind such films as Midnight Express and Pink Floyd's The Wall — has died. The British Film Institute confirmed the filmmaker's passing today, noting he died after a prolonged illness. Parker was 76.
Other films helmed by Parker include Mississippi Burning, Evita, Bugsy Malone, The Commitments, Angela's Ashes, Birdy and Fame, among many others.
Parker was nominated for the best director Oscar twice — first for 1978's Midnight Express and again for 1988's Mississippi Burning. He was also nominated for the Cannes' Palme d'Or multiple times during his career, first with 1976's Bugsy Malone.
The director had close ties to music throughout his career, spawning countless memorable scores and iconic musical moments over the years. Not only did he helm Pink Floyd's classic The Wall film, but Midnight Express spawned the timeless soundtrack by Giorgio Moroder.
Evita also starred Madonna, while The Commitments continues to hold up as one of the best band films of all time. Peter Gabriel famously scored Parker's Birdy in 1984 as well.
Parker is survived by his wife Lisa Moran-Parker, five children and seven grandchildren.
Other films helmed by Parker include Mississippi Burning, Evita, Bugsy Malone, The Commitments, Angela's Ashes, Birdy and Fame, among many others.
Parker was nominated for the best director Oscar twice — first for 1978's Midnight Express and again for 1988's Mississippi Burning. He was also nominated for the Cannes' Palme d'Or multiple times during his career, first with 1976's Bugsy Malone.
The director had close ties to music throughout his career, spawning countless memorable scores and iconic musical moments over the years. Not only did he helm Pink Floyd's classic The Wall film, but Midnight Express spawned the timeless soundtrack by Giorgio Moroder.
Evita also starred Madonna, while The Commitments continues to hold up as one of the best band films of all time. Peter Gabriel famously scored Parker's Birdy in 1984 as well.
Parker is survived by his wife Lisa Moran-Parker, five children and seven grandchildren.
