Adam Somner, the esteemed assistant director and producer who contributed extensively to some of Hollywood's most notable films, has passed away at the age of 57. Somner, known for his collaborations with legendary directors such as Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and Paul Thomas Anderson, succumbed to complications from anaplastic thyroid cancer on November 27, just one day before Thanksgiving.
Throughout his career, Somner established himself as a key figure on many critically acclaimed projects, holding notable roles on films like West Side Story, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Gladiator. With over 75 assistant director credits, he was recognized as one of the industry's leading first assistant directors, treasured for his organizational skills and creative contributions.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Somner started his career by assisting on memorable films such as Who Framed Roger Rabbit? and evolved to become third assistant director for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. His expertise quickly caught the eye of prominent filmmakers and he soon began working with Spielberg on many projects, including Ready Player One, Lincoln, and multiple entries from the Indiana Jones series.
His most recent involvement was with Anderson on the upcoming untitled film featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, and he was also part of the Oscar-nominated team for Licorice Pizza, which highlighted his skill for balancing demanding on-set duties with creative vision. Indeed, his contributions to Licorice Pizza and collaborations with Scorsese on Killers of the Flower Moon reaffirmed his status as both a producer and a first AD.
Steven Spielberg expressed heartfelt condolences, stating, “The job title ‘assistant director’ is insufficient to describe what Adam Somner was to me and the contribution he made to my films. He worked as AD, and producer, and he performed both of those tasks with equal measures of devotion.” His words encapsulated the deep impact Somner had within the industry, emphasizing his ability to unite crews and create family-like environments on set.
Martin Scorsese also chimed in, reflecting on Somner's talent and influence: “He loved making pictures... He had the organizational abilities and the discipline of a general on the battlefield. Adam was one of the finest collaborators I could ask for.” These sentiments reflect the respect and admiration fellow filmmakers held for Somner, highlighting his unique ability to manage talent and resources seamlessly.
Somner's work extended beyond his collaborations with Anderson, Spielberg, and Scorsese; he also had significant roles on films directed by Ridley Scott (Kingdom of Heaven, Black Hawk Down, and Gladiator) and Alejandro González Iñárritu's The Revenant and Birdman. His contributions were not limited to film alone; he also lent his expertise to various television productions, showcasing his versatility across different media formats.
His influence extended to capturing pivotal scenes, such as the elaborate airplane orgy from The Wolf of Wall Street, demonstrating his artistic vision alongside his technical prowess. Somner noted back during a Q&A at the AFI Conservatory, “I think your job as good AD is to be a barometer to the set. If it’s tense, you try and make it less tense.” This sentiment truly embodied his approach to fostering creative environments where individuals felt safe and capable.
Somner is survived by his wife, Carmen Ruiz de Huidobro, with whom he shared two children, Olivia and Bosco, along with his brother Mark. He leaves behind not just family but also countless colleagues, friends, and fans who appreciated everything he contributed to the magic of cinema. The film community is recognizing his memory and influence by establishing a Directors Guild of America scholarship, aimed at future generations of filmmakers demonstrating the same passion and dedication Somner exhibited throughout his extensive career.
Those wishing to honor Somner can reflect on the multitude of cinematic achievements he played a key role in, from award-winning projects to unforgettable moments on screen. His legacy will endure through the films he brought to life and the countless individuals he inspired throughout his career.