Over the course of Hollywood’s lengthy history, the film industry has birthed a plethora of incredibly well respected filmmakers. From Alfred Hitchcock to Steven Spielberg, the list is virtually endless with the abundance of films they each created during their respective times continuing to entertain audiences decades later. These individuals are revered for a variety of reasons that range from their ability to tell a story in a poignant manner to simply being able to make audiences laugh, and regardless of which it may be their films ultimately resonate with audiences substantially more than most. This week however Hollywood is in mourning following the passing of Ivan Reitman, the man responsible for one of the most iconic movie franchises of the 1980s.
Even if you aren’t familiar with his name, you are almost certainly familiar with his work: Reitman is best known for directing and producing the first two installments of the Ghostbusters franchise which released respectively back in 1984 and 1989. His resume certainly doesn’t end there either, with his IMDb page listing 74 producer credits dating back to 1968 for the respected filmmaker that include other timeless projects like 1990’s Kindergarten Cop and 1996’s Space Jam. He remained active up until the time of his death and even helped produce films such as the third installment of the Ghostbusters franchise as well as the sequel film Space Jam: A New Legacy which both released last year. His passing came unexpectedly Sunday evening however when Reitman passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 75. Many have paid tribute to the legendary filmmaker on social media in reaction to the shocking news, recounting the countless classic projects he had helped bring to life which have left a cultural impact upon American society that you truly cannot surmise in words. Ivan Reitman will be missed by many, and his legacy will certainly live on.
Whether you realize it or not, you’re probably already familiar with at least some of Reitman’s work. Having been an active contributor to the entertainment industry’s success for over half a century, he helped craft some of Hollywood’s most memorable projects alongside a litany of stars that ranges from athletes such as Michael Jordan and Lebron James to actors like Dan Akroyd and even Shia LaBeouf. Reitman made films for people of all ages and walks of life that have helped define movies as we know them today, and his passing is an untimely reminder to cherish your loved ones before they’re gone.
