017: The Roger Corman Film School

Roger Corman (April 5, 1926 -May 9, 2024)—an iconic figure whose influence on Hollywood is nothing short of legendary—traversed the cinematic landscape from the late 1950's to the 1990's. Celebrated as the "Pope of Pop Cinema," the "Spiritual Godfather of the New Hollywood," and the "King of Cult," Corman was a pioneering force in independent filmmaking, forever reshaping the industry with his innovative spirit.

Throughout his illustrious career, Corman collaborated with an impressive roster of emerging filmmakers, many of whom would go on to dominate the industry. Names such as Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, James Cameron, and Jonathan Demme began their journeys under his mentorship. It has often been remarked that Corman’s guidance served as a vital training ground—what James Cameron famously referred to as the "Roger Corman Film School."

His influence extended beyond mentorship; he was a catalyst for creativity and innovation. Nicolas Roeg served as the cinematographer for The Masque of the Red Death, while many of his protégés achieved Oscar success. Corman’s reputation for fostering talent with a blend of encouragement and challenge left an indelible mark on cinema. As he famously advised, “If you do a good job on this film, you’ll never have to work for me again,” exemplifying his role as both mentor and pioneer in the cinematic world.

Join Azed and Tom as they explore the life and work of Roger Corman, a true maverick and inspiration for all aspiring filmmakers.