Eclectic and innovative filmmaker Robert M. Young reportedly passed away in a Los Angeles hospital on February 6th, 2024 at the age of 99. His death was confirmed by his son in a post to Facebook.
During his career, Young directed such hits as Alambrista! (1977), The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez (1982), Saving Grace (1986), Triumph of the Spirit (1989), Talent for the Game (1991), Roosters (1993), Slave of Dreams (1995), and Caught (1996).
Former Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper told Indiewire about Young,
We lose important people all the time, but then there are those who embodied a spirit that is truly original. Bob Young was one of those.
I fondly remember him as an indie cowboy…a rebel…and a believer in the power of cinema. His love of cinema was infectious and deep. He was always there to contribute in knowledge and talent to anyone lucky enough to be in his path. I was on his road many times and I felt lucky to know him. I also felt proud to celebrate him whenever he found his way to Sundance. I thought he would live forever… but now we must say a fond goodbye. I do it with gratitude for all he shared with the world.
Former Sundance Film Festival director John Cooper
When asked about why he became a filmmaker, Young told the Directors Guild of America back in 2005, “I wanted to be in life,” he said. “I wanted to be having adventures, I wanted to be living in the world.”
Young began his legendary film career all the way back in the 1950s, producing educational films about sea life. He then moved on to producing documentaries in the 1960s.
Young spent his life fulfilling his dream, and creating art that will be viewed for decades after his tragic passing. At 99 years old, he lived a life that many would envy, and we thank him dearly for his lifetime of dedication to the arts.
Rest in peace, Robert M. Young.
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