Lewis Gilbert was a renowned British film director, producer, and screenwriter, whose illustrious career spanned multiple decades and numerous iconic films. He is perhaps most famously associated with the 1966 film "Alfie", a groundbreaking romantic comedy that garnered widespread critical acclaim and cemented his status as a master of his craft.
Gilbert's impressive filmography also includes three James Bond films: "You Only Live Twice" (1967),"The Spy Who Loved Me" (1977),and "Moonraker" (1979). In addition to his work on the Bond franchise, he directed a diverse range of films, including "Reach for the Sky" (1956),"Sink the Bismarck!" (1960),"Educating Rita" (1983),and "Shirley Valentine" (1989).
Gilbert's exceptional skill behind the camera earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Director, both for his work on "Alfie". His dedication to his craft was recognized by the British film industry, which honored him with the highest accolade, Fellowship of the British Film Institute, in 2001.
Throughout his life, Gilbert was married to his loving wife, Hylda Tafler, for an impressive 53 years, until her passing in June 2005. He continued to work in the film industry until his eventual retirement, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
Sadly, Gilbert passed away on February 23, 2018, at the remarkable age of 97, leaving behind a body of work that will be cherished for generations to come.
