Simon Field, the legendary festival director of the Rotterdam Film Festival, has died. As reported by Deadline, he was 80 years old.
Geoff Andrew, a veteran film critic, posted an obituary of Field. "It is incredibly hard to write these words," he explained. "He died yesterday [July 16], aged 80; he will undoubtedly be deeply missed by a great many people around the world."
He also said of the film festival director, "his comprehensive knowledge, his taste and his ability to spot new talent were what earned him widespread respect around the world."
And new talent he did find. Some of the legends he championed during his tenure as head of the Rotterdam Film Festival have grown into household names.
One of these was Christopher Nolan. According to an obituary posted by the International Film Festival Rotterdam, he started the Tiger Competition. This was a competition that Nolan had won.
Other legendary directors that had also won the Tiger Competition included Hong Sang Soo, of Woman is the Future of Man fame, as well as Pablo Trapero.
Following his exit from the film festival, he also worked as a producer with filmmakers such as Tsai Ming-liang and Apitchatpong Weerasthakul.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Tributes Have Poured in for the Festival Director Legend
Weerasethakul shared a tearful tribute to Field in a post on social media. "I have lost an important companion, with whom we built the films together with love, over many years."
"I cannot dream of a more caring and supportive producer, and a kind gentleman. We were up against changing practices in filmmaking and film funding. But Simon never gave up, nor compromised."
Weerasethakul added, "I will carry him in gratitude, and in the work we still have to finish. Our bond through images will continue to bind others. He is in the light that touches the leaves, young and old. We will continue our journey with the love he showed me."
Andrew also recalled "the countless enjoyable lunches and dinners over the years, sometimes just the two of us, sometimes with partners or friends, occasionally with filmmakers, including several with Takeshi Kitano and his entourage."
Rest in peace to a true pioneer.
