Renowned art director Les Dilley, known for his work on 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones', passes away at 84 years old.
The Legacy of Les Dilley: A True Cinematic Visionary
Bid farewell to Les Dilley, the acclaimed art director and production designer, who departed at 84 due to Alzheimer's complications. Born in Rhondda, Wales on July 11, 1941, Dilley's cinematic journey kick-started at just 15 as an apprentice in the construction and plastering department at the Associated British Picture Corporation. His big break arrived at age 23, working as a plaster worker on the timeless classic, From Russia With Love.
Following a series of roles, Dilley honed his skills as an art director for movies like Three Musketeers before contributing to the UK team for Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Art Direction, shared with Norman Reynolds. This groundbreaking film marked the beginning of the Star Wars universe as we know it. He continued his collaboration with the Star Wars franchise in The Empire Strikes Back (1980).
Dilley's versatility shone as he demonstrated his flair for different genres – from Indiana Jones's seminal adventure Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) to the gripping underwater sci-fi thriller The Abyss (1989) directed by James Cameron. His art direction prowess even earned him a nomination for Alien (1979).
Throughout his six-decade career, Dilley also worked closely with directors such as George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Ridley Scott, and Irvin Kershner, making an indelible impression on cinema. With over 100 film and television projects under his belt, Dilley remains a prolific figure in the industry.
His family home, a personal tribute to his work, stands as a testament to his enduring passion for the motion picture business. Upon his retirement in 2017, Dilley left behind a legacy that continues to resonate in the many iconic films he brought to life.
As we mourn his departure, we remember the dedicated, humorous, and vivacious man who left such a profound impact on the world of cinema. Rest in peace, Les Dilley.
[via The Hollywood Reporter]
Stay updated on the latest news on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, the DC Universe, and the future of Doctor Who.
- Les Dilley's contribution to technology and entertainment extended to various platforms, including Gizmodo and io9's coverage of movies-and-tv, such as the upcoming Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, and Doctor Who projects.
- Les Dilley's influence on the future of movie-making could translate beyond cinema; his innovative work in set design may be applicable to upcoming advancements in technology, perhaps even inspiring future movie-and-tv productions on virtual reality platforms.
- As Hollywood Reporter pays tribute to Les Dilley, sites like Gizmodo and io9 continue to celebrate his impact on the world of movies, technology, and entertainment – a fitting recognition for a true cinematic visionary who will forever be remembered in the industry.
