Acclaimed Art Director Les Dilley, renowned for his work on 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones' franchises, passes away at 84 years old.
Remember Les Dilley, the celebrated art director and production designer on numerous films, departed this world on May 20, at the age of 84, following complications from Alzheimer's.
Born on July 11, 1941, in Rhondda, Wales, Dilley commenced his film career with a construction and plastering apprenticeship at Associated British Picture Corporation at the tender age of 15. At 23, he was a plaster worker on "From Russia With Love" (1963), later becoming an assistant art director on "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Kelly's Heroes." After serving as an art director for "Three Musketeers" in 1973 and its 1974 sequel, Dilley joined the UK team for "Star Wars: A New Hope" (1977). He contributed to the creation of R2-D2's physical build, the sandcrawler, and Luke's landspeeder.
Subsequently, Dilley directed art for "Empire Strikes Back" (1980) and collaborated on "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981), "Alien" (1979), "Superman" (1978), and "An American Werewolf in London" (1981). His production designer credits include "The Abyss" (1989), "Exorcist III" (1990), "Invaders From Mars" (1986), "Casper" (1995), "Black Knight" (2001), and "Deep Impact" (1998). Notably, "Abyss," "Empire," and "Alien" each garnered him Oscar nominations, while "New Hope" and "Raiders" earned him wins for Best Art Direction, shared with fellow art director Norman Reynolds, who passed in 2023.
Following the conclusion of his work on the British kids' show "Teacup Travels" in 2017, Dilley retired. He was posthumously recognized by BAFTA's Welsh branch in 2020 with an Outstanding Contribution to Film and Television Award. Numerous filmmakers, including George Lucas, Ridley Scott, and others with whom Dilley had collaborated over the years, lauded him at the event. Lucas described him as his "main contact with the art department, and an all-around great guy. [...] If anybody deserves this award, it's you."
Dilley is survived by his wife Leslie and five children. In a statement, the family noted, "His legacy lives on in the many iconic films he helped bring to life for over six decades and in his family home he personally built as an homage to his work. His love for the motion picture business was evident to the very end. In addition to his incredible work ethic, quirky British humor, and love of life, he was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He will be greatly missed."
[Source: The Hollywood Reporter]
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Enrichment Data:- In a storied career spanning over 60 years, Les Dilley amassed a remarkable portfolio, with highlights including awards and recognitions, collaborations with iconic directors, and impactful contributions to blockbuster franchises.
- He won Academy Awards for Best Art Direction for "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope" (1977) and "Raiders of the Lost Ark" (1981) [1][2][3].
- Dilley collaborated with legendary directors such as George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Ridley Scott, and Irvin Kershner [2][3].
- His work played a crucial role in defining the visual landscapes of popular franchises like "Star Wars," "Indiana Jones," "Alien," and "Superman" [2][3].
- Notable film projects include "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope," "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "The Empire Strikes Back," "The Abyss," "Never Say Never Again," "The Exorcist III," "Guilty by Suspicion," "Casper," "The Peacemaker," and "Deep Impact."
In his diverse career that extended over six decades, Les Dilley collaborated with acclaimed directors such as George Lucas, Ridley Scott, and Steven Spielberg, and his work significantly impacted popular franchises like 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones'. Following his Oscar wins for 'Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope' and 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', readers can stay updated on the latest developments in 'Star Wars' and 'Star Trek' releases, as well as the future of 'Marvel', the 'DC Universe', and 'Doctor Who' on io9.
