Robert Benton, Acclaimed Filmmaker, Passes Away at 92
NEW YORK — Robert Benton, the renowned filmmaker known for his landmark contributions to Hollywood, has passed away at the age of 92. His son, John Benton, confirmed that he died of natural causes at his Manhattan home.
Benton, a Texas native, enjoyed a prolific career over four decades, earning six Oscar nominations, of which he won three. His awards came for both writing and directing the poignant film “Kramer vs. Kramer” and for writing “Places in the Heart.” He was respected by his peers and actors alike for creating an environment of trust that brought out the best in performances from stars like Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep, and Sally Field. Despite facing challenges with severe dyslexia during his childhood, he made a name for himself by adapting works from noted authors like Philip Roth and E.L. Doctorow into compelling films.
His journey began in the early 1960s as an art director for Esquire magazine. His passion for film, especially influenced by French New Wave cinema and classic gangster tales, drove him to collaborate with Esquire editor David Newman on a screenplay about the infamous outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. Initially, the project faced setbacks, with well-known directors declining to take it on. Ultimately, Warren Beatty stepped in to produce and star in “Bonnie and Clyde,” directed by Arthur Penn. Released in 1967, the film broke ground despite initial criticism, becoming a significant part of 1960s culture and a symbol of a new creative chapter in Hollywood.
The vision that Benton and Newman proposed was ahead of its time, including a bold portrayal of Clyde Barrow. However, changes made during production meant that their original concept evolved significantly. Benton later remarked on the complicated authorship of the film, indicating it was a collaborative effort.
Continued Success in Film
In the years that followed “Bonnie and Clyde,” Benton continued to achieve both critical and commercial success. His screenwriting credits included classics like “Superman” and “What’s Up, Doc?” He went on to direct notable films like “Bad Company” and “The Late Show,” both of which received acclaim.
In 1979, Benton hit new heights with “Kramer vs. Kramer.” The film, which explores the dynamics of family life and a father’s transformation after his wife leaves, was a true reflection of evolving family values. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and reignited Hoffman’s passion for acting.
Five years later, Benton directed “Places in the Heart,” inspired by his own family history. This film tells the story of a Texas mother striving to keep her farm after her husband’s tragic death. Benton expressed a newfound appreciation for the past through this work, which he dedicated in part to his late mother.
A Lifelong Love for Movies
Born in Waxahachie, Texas, Benton’s love for cinema stemmed from his father who prioritized family movie outings over academic inquiries. He pursued higher education at the University of Texas and Columbia University before serving in the U.S. Army.
Throughout his career, Benton faced both triumph and challenges, experiencing periods of inactivity between his successful projects. His more recent films may not have performed as well, but he found renewed success with “Nobody’s Fool,” a comedy featuring Paul Newman, recognized as Newman’s final Oscar-nominated role.
Reflecting on his experiences in the film industry, Benton once described the Academy Awards as a family reunion of sorts, emphasizing the connections and shared histories within Hollywood. His contributions to film and storytelling will be cherished and remembered for many years to come.
