Acclaimed art director Les Dilley, renowned for his work on 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones' films, passes away at age 84.
Meet Les Dilley: An Artistic Pioneer Bid Farewell, Age 84
Blazing through the film industry for over six decades, Les Dilley, a skilled art director and production designer, left an indelible mark on the silver screen before departing this world on May 20. The 84-year-old visionary succumbed to the harsh clutches of Alzheimer's disease, sparking a wave of mourning from film fanatics and contemporaries alike.
Forging his cinematic journey in the rugged terrain of Rhondda, Wales, Dilley began his professional life at the tender age of 15, securing an apprenticeship in construction and plastering at the Associated British Picture Corporation. Dilley's raw talent and unrelenting dedication quickly earned him roles as a plaster worker on classics like From Russia With Love (1963) and as an assistant art director for blockbusters such as Kelly's Heroes and Jesus Christ Superstar.
Dilley's career trajectory took a monumental leap in 1973 when he was appointed art director for The Three Musketeers and its sequel, which paved the way for his involvement with the UK team on Star Wars: A New Hope. Working tirelessly, Dilley played a pivotal role in creating the physical builds for R2-D2, the sandcrawler, and Luke's landspeeder – iconic components that have left lasting impressions on generations of Star Wars enthusiasts.
His artistic genius continued to shine throughout his career, lending his skills to films such as Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Alien, Superman, and An American Werewolf in London. Recognized for his contributions, Dilley's production designer credits include The Abyss, Exorcist III, Invaders From Mars, Casper, Black Knight, and Deep Impact.
Among his most celebrated projects are Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope and Raiders of the Lost Ark, for which he earned two Oscars for Best Art Direction, shared with Norman Reynolds, who passed in 20234. Additionally, he was nominated for other lauded films like The Empire Strikes Back, Alien, and The Abyss13.
Capping off his impressive career, Dilley worked as a production designer on the British children's show Teacup Travels until its end in 2017, following which he retired. His work has yet to be seen in the web series New-Gen, as it has yet to release5.
During the British Academy Cymru Awards in 2020, the Welsh branch of BAFTA honored Dilley with an Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television Award, with George Lucas, Ridley Scott, and other industry heavyweights heaping praise on the influential artist. Lucas deeming him a "main contact with the art department, an all-around great guy... If anybody deserves this award, it's you"6.
Leaving behind his wife Leslie and five children, Dilley's legacy undeniably lives on in the countless iconic films he breathed life into. His passion for the film industry, unique British humor, and zest for life will be remembered by many. As his family poignantly expressed, his love for movies was evident till the end6.
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via The Hollywood Reporter
Les Dilley's work, showcased in movies like 'Star Wars: A New Hope' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', can be found on the technology-centered platform Gizmodo under the 'movies-and-tv' category. Fans of science fiction and action movies, inspired by Dilley's contributions, can look forward to upcoming films on Io9, such as the future plans for 'Star Wars' and 'Star Trek'. The spirit of Les Dilley's unique artistic approach to entertainment continues to resonate with movie enthusiasts.
