Norman Jewison

Date of Birth: July 21, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

Norman Frederick Jewison is a distinguished Canadian film director, producer, and screenwriter, renowned for his versatile and socially conscious filmmaking over a career spanning several decades. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Jewison began his career in television before transitioning to film in the early 1960s. Jewison’s directorial debut came with the film “40 Pounds of Trouble” (1962), but he soon became known for his work on films that tackled significant social issues. His 1967 film “In the Heat of the Night” won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. This film was particularly noted for its groundbreaking portrayal of race relations in America. Among his other notable works are “Fiddler on the Roof” (1971), a musical that earned him widespread acclaim, “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1973), and the dystopian sports film “Rollerball” (1975). Jewison’s 1987 film “Moonstruck,” a romantic comedy, was both a critical and commercial success, earning three Academy Awards. Jewison’s career is marked by his ability to work across genres, delivering compelling narratives that often explore themes of justice, social equality, and human dignity. Beyond his film work, he has been an advocate for Canadian cinema and has mentored many young filmmakers.

5 Interesting Facts about Norman Jewison

1. Norman Jewison founded the Canadian Film Centre in 1988 to support the development of Canadian filmmakers.

2. He served in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II before pursuing a career in entertainment.

3. Jewison’s film “In the Heat of the Night” was inducted into the National Film Registry for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

4. He has received numerous honors, including the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1999.

5. Jewison directed the 1984 film “A Soldier’s Story,” which was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Norman Jewison

1. “Movies are not scripts – movies are films; they’re not books, they’re not the theatre.”

2. “I think the responsibility of a filmmaker is to bring a certain truth to every project.”

3. “I’ve always believed that you should never, ever give up and you should always keep fighting even when there’s only a remote chance.”

4. “The art of making films is one of the most collaborative forms of art.”

5. “You don’t direct movies; you direct people.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Norman Jewison is estimated to be around $15 million.

Children

Norman Jewison has three children: Michael Jewison, Kevin Jewison, and Jennifer Jewison. All three have pursued careers in the entertainment industry, continuing the family’s legacy in film and television.