James Foley, the acclaimed director known for his work on the 70Fifty Shades of Grey70 sequels and the cult classic 70Glengarry Glen Ross70, has passed away at the age of 71. His family confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep earlier this week at his home in Los Angeles, following a year-long battle with brain cancer. Foley's death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned several decades and showcased his versatility across film and television.
Born on December 28, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, Foley grew up on Staten Island. He pursued a degree in psychology at the State University of New York at Buffalo, graduating in 1974. However, his passion for film led him to take a six-week film production course at New York University, which ignited his desire to direct. He later earned a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts in 1979.
Foley made his directorial debut with the romantic drama 70Reckless70 in 1984, starring Aidan Quinn and Daryl Hannah. Despite receiving mixed reviews, it set the stage for his subsequent projects. His second film, 70At Close Range70, released in 1986, featured Sean Penn and Christopher Walken and included the Madonna song 70Live to Tell70, marking the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with the pop icon.
Foley directed several of Madonna's music videos, including 70Papa Don70t Preach70 and 70True Blue70, using the pseudonym Peter Percher for his initial work with her. He returned to his real name when he directed the film 70Who70s That Girl?70 in 1987, which starred Madonna alongside Griffin Dunne. This partnership not only showcased his ability to connect with pop culture but also solidified his place in Hollywood.
In 1992, Foley directed 70Glengarry Glen Ross70, adapted from David Mamet's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Featuring a star-studded cast including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, and Alec Baldwin, the film became a cult classic, even though it did not achieve box office success. It was praised for its sharp dialogue and powerful performances, earning an Oscar nomination for Pacino.
Foley's versatility was evident as he transitioned into television, directing episodes of the iconic series 70Twin Peaks70 in 1991. He later helmed 12 episodes of the critically acclaimed Netflix series 70House of Cards70, which starred Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright. His work on 70House of Cards70 helped establish Netflix as a powerhouse in original programming.
In the 2000s, Foley directed films such as 70Confidence70 (2003) and 70Perfect Stranger70 (2007), continuing to showcase his ability to navigate various genres. However, his most commercially successful works came with the 70Fifty Shades of Grey70 sequels, 70Fifty Shades Darker70 (2017) and 70Fifty Shades Freed70 (2018). These films grossed a combined total of $714 million worldwide, solidifying his status in the industry.
Foley's unique perspective on filmmaking was evident in his interviews. In a 2017 conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, he expressed satisfaction that his career had not been pigeonholed, stating, "I think in terms of what fascinates me and what intrigues me and what I feel is engaging for the year that you spend making the movie, what’s personally engaging, not adhering to any kind of conventions." This philosophy guided him throughout his career, allowing him to explore diverse narratives.
Despite his success, Foley faced personal challenges. His representative noted that he had been battling brain cancer for several years before his passing. The official cause of death has not been confirmed, but his family shared that he died peacefully at home. Foley is survived by his brother Kevin Foley, sisters Eileen and Jo Ann Foley, and his nephew Quinn Foley. He was predeceased by another brother, Gerard Foley, whose wife also survives him.
Foley's career was marked by a fluidity that allowed him to explore various genres and styles, from romantic dramas to thrillers and television dramas. His ability to adapt and innovate made him a respected figure in the industry. As he once reflected, "I’ve had a very fluid career of ups and downs and lefts and rights, and I always just responded to what I was interested in at the moment. I’ve always just followed my nose, for better or for worse, sometimes for worse." This sentiment captures the essence of Foley's journey in the film industry.
In remembrance of James Foley, many in the film community are celebrating his contributions and the indelible mark he left on both cinema and television. His works continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing his talent and dedication to storytelling. As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, they also honor a legacy that will endure through his films and the impact he made on those who worked with him.
