What's Happening?
Drew Struzan, renowned for his iconic movie posters, has died at the age of 78. Struzan's work includes posters for major films such as Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and Back to the Future, elevating promotional marketing to a pop art form. His career began with album art for bands like The Beach Boys before transitioning to movie posters in the late 1970s. Struzan's wife had revealed earlier this year that he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. His unique style combined photorealistic portraiture with dramatic compositions, influencing cover art across various media, including video games. Steven Spielberg praised Struzan's ability to make movies into destinations through his art.
Why It's Important?
Struzan's passing marks the end of an era in movie poster art, highlighting the shift in Hollywood's approach to promotional materials. His work has left a lasting impact on the industry, setting a high standard for artistic movie marketing. As the industry increasingly turns to digital and AI-driven solutions, Struzan's human touch in art becomes a nostalgic reminder of the past. His influence extends beyond film, impacting video game art and inspiring artists across different media. The loss of Struzan underscores the cultural significance of traditional art forms in an evolving digital landscape.
