George Armitage, Celebrated Director of ‘Grosse Pointe Blank’ and ‘Miami Blues’, Passes Away at 83

George Armitage, famed director of classics like “Grosse Pointe Blank” and “Miami Blues,” died at 83. He rose from the Fox mailroom to become a renowned filmmaker, known for his unique style of encouraging actor improvisation. His legacy includes numerous influential films and television projects, alongside a family left to cherish his memory.

George Armitage, the visionary director behind iconic films such as “Grosse Pointe Blank” and “Miami Blues,” has passed away at the age of 83 in Playa del Rey, as confirmed by his son, Brent. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Armitage began his career in the mailroom of 20th Century Fox and rapidly transitioned to associate producer on the hit series “Peyton Place” during the 1960s.

Armitage’s journey into feature films started with a collaboration with Roger Corman, showcasing his talent for comedic storytelling in the 1970 film “Gas! – Or – It Became Necessary to Destroy the World in Order to Save It.” He then shifted gears to directing with films like “Private Duty Nurses” and the 1972 Blaxploitation flick “Hit Man,” featuring stars Pam Grier and Bernie Casey.

His notable directorial work continued with “Vigilante Force” and the TV movie “Hot Rod” before he ventured into the comedy-thriller realm. Armitage’s breakout success arrived with 1990’s “Miami Blues,” which starred Alec Baldwin and received acclaim for Jennifer Jason-Leigh’s remarkable performance, solidifying his reputation.

Further establishing his legacy, Armitage co-wrote the Emmy-nominated TV movie “The Late Shift,” which chronicled the competitive clash between David Letterman and Jay Leno. But his most renowned work emerged with the cult classic “Grosse Pointe Blank,” which humorously blended action and nostalgia, following an assassin returning to his high school reunion.

He creatively approached casting in “Grosse Pointe Blank” by encouraging actors to embrace improvisation, allowing them to bring their characters to life uniquely. Explaining his method, he said, “You are creating the character. This is written, these are the parameters, this is the outline. Now you take this, make it your own, and bring me, bring me, bring me,” revealing his belief in the power of collaboration.

Armitage’s final film was the 2004 adaptation of Elmore Leonard’s “The Big Bounce,” featuring Owen Wilson and Morgan Freeman. A celebrated member of the Writer’s Guild of America, Directors Guild of America, and the Academy, he leaves behind a rich legacy in cinema alongside his wife, Sharon, son Brent, and grandchildren Caroline and Nick.

George Armitage leaves behind a notable legacy marked by his innovative storytelling and distinctive directorial style. His works greatly enriched the landscape of American cinema, from the laughter of quirky thrillers to the intensity of crime dramas. His artistic influence will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors.

Original Source: variety.com