Hugh Hudson dies: Oscar-nominated “Chariots Of Fire” director was 86

Hugh Hudson, who directed his first film chariot of fire won four Oscars, including best picture, has died, according to a statement from his family obtained by the BBC. He turned 86.

Hudson began his career making documentaries and TV commercials, which he continued after his big screen breakthrough chariot of fire. He worked with Alan Parker, Ridley Scott and Tony Scott for Ridley Scott Associates (RSA). His first job as a filmmaker was as second unit director at Parker’s Midnight Express.

Vincent Canby wrote of Hudson’s Oscar-winning debut in 1981: “It is due to both Mr. Hudson and Mr. Welland. [Colin Welland wrote the screenplay] The chariot of fire is simultaneously romantic and down-to-earth, lyrical and comical. … This is an extraordinary film about some extraordinary people.”

The late composer Vangelis, with whom Puttnam worked, also earned credit for the film’s lyrics Midnight Express and which won an Oscar for its now classic score.

chariot of fire was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Director for Hudson, and took home four. These include Best Picture and Original Score mentioned above, as well as Best Original Screenplay for Welland and Best Costume Design for Milena Canonero.

Hudson’s other work included Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes 1984, which received four Academy Award nominations; revolution, with Al Pacino; And lost angelsnominated for the Palme d’Or at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival.

Is I dreamed of Africa with Kim Basinger in 2000 was selected as the closing film of the Cannes Film Festival.

Hudson won the Grand Prix Cannes Lions in 1972 for Levi’s “Walking Behinds” commercial and in 1978 for his Coty L’Aimant work “French Lesson”. In 2003, he received a special award celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival.

The director’s family issued the following statement on his death: “Hugh Hudson, 86, beloved husband and father, died at Charing Cross Hospital on February 10 after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Maryam, his son Thomas and his first wife Sue.”