Jack Smith was an American actor and director who is best known for Flaming Creatures (1963), The Illiac Passion (1967), and Normal Love (1963). Born on November 14, 1932 in Columbus, Ohio, Smith made a significant impact on independent cinema. He passed away on September 25, 1989 in Manhattan, New York, USA.
Personal and Family Life
Jack Smith grew up in Ohio before moving to New York City, where he became part of the avant-garde art scene. Throughout his career, he was known for his flamboyant style and unique artistic vision. Smith’s work not only focused on acting but also on directing and producing, allowing him to explore themes of sexuality and identity in his films.
Death and Legacy
Jack Smith died of AIDS in 1989, leaving behind a legacy marked by his influence on the indie film community. His innovative works and artistic approach inspired many filmmakers, including John Waters, who noted Smith’s distinct impact on their artistic styles. A retrospective of his films was held at the 11th New Horizons Film Festival in 2011, celebrating his contributions to cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Shadows in the City | 1991-08-23 | Spirit of Death |
| Hedy | 1966-03-03 | soothsayer |
| Love Thing | 2012-05-22 | |
| Two Wrenching Departures | 2006-01-01 | |
| Birth of a Nation | 1997-08-06 | Self |
| The Illiac Passion | 1967-12-30 | Orpheus |
| Batman Dracula | 1964-07-01 | Batman / Dracula |
| The Queen of Sheba Meets the Atom Man | 1981-08-01 | |
| Blonde Cobra | 1963-04-08 | Madame Nescience |
| The Death of P’town | 1963-01-01 | Fairy Vampire |
| Little Stabs at Happiness | 1963-09-16 | Himself |
| Saturday Afternoon Blood Sacrifice | 1956-01-01 | Cult leader |
| The Trap Door | 1980-09-01 | Dr. Shrinkelstein |
| Filmmakers | 1969-01-01 | Himself |
| Escape From Rented Island: The Lost Paradise of Jack Smith | 2017-01-26 | Himself (archive footage) |
| Star Spangled to Death | 2004-05-21 | The Spirit Not of Life But of Living |
| Andy Warhol Screen Tests | 1965-11-28 | Self |