David Korda: The End of an Era in British Film

David Korda, a distinguished figure in the world of British cinema, has passed away at the age of 87. Renowned for his contributions as a film producer and financier, Korda’s legacy is firmly rooted in a family of celebrated filmmakers, including his father Zoltán Korda.

Announcement of Korda’s Passing

News of Korda’s demise reached the public on November 16, when film historian Charles Drazin announced it via social media. Korda had succumbed to cancer at Cromwell Hospital in London on September 18. Drazin, who authored a 2011 biography on Korda’s uncle, the acclaimed producer-director Alexander Korda, confirmed the details of Korda’s passing.

The Korda Family Legacy

The Korda family has a significant heritage in the film industry. David Korda’s father, Zoltán, directed iconic films like “The Four Feathers” (1939) and “Cry, the Beloved Country” (1951). His mother, Joan Gardner, was a renowned actress recognized for her roles in “The Scarlett Pimpernel” (1934) and “Dark Journey” (1937). His uncle, Alexander Korda, was the founder of London Films and British Lion Films, producing noteworthy features like “The Private Life of Henry VIII” (1933) and “The Third Man” (1949). His other uncle, Vincent Korda, was an Oscar-winning art director.

David Korda’s Career and Contributions

David Korda’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which he produced films like “Hamburger Hill” (1987) and “After the Rain” (1999), starring Paul Bettany. He collaborated with director Francis Ford Coppola as a film financier on “The Outsiders” (1983) and “Rumble Fish” (1983). Korda also played a crucial role in securing funding for Terry Gilliam’s notoriously over-budget film “The Adventures of Baron Munchausen” (1988).

Early Life and Education

Born in London, Korda relocated to Beverly Hills with his parents when he was just three years old. His earliest memories of Los Angeles were grand, involving his Uncle Alex taking him on a town tour in a large limousine and gifting him a bag of silver dollars. He also fondly recalled playing with props from films like ‘Thief of Bagdad’ and ‘The Jungle Book.’ Korda received his education from the Lycée in South Kensington, the International School in Geneva, Pomona College, and Oxford. After his studies, he established a theater company in 1960 with Polish actor-director Wladek Sheybal, featuring performances from actors like Eileen Atkins, Prunella Scales, and Jeremy Brett.

Early Career and Contributions

After his father’s death, Korda started his career in the film industry as an assistant on Peter Brook’s 1963 feature “Lord of the Flies.” He worked for producer Charles H. Schneer, compiling footage for films like “Siege of the Saxons,” “East of Sudan”, and “Land Raiders”. He also incorporated film sequences from “The Four Feathers,” a move that led him to remark humorously about his father turning in his grave.

Later Career and Achievements

In the later stages of his career, Korda wore many hats. He served as a unit manager for the 1967 Paramount musical “Half a Sixpence”, and produced “The Ruling Class” and “Man Friday”. In the next decade, he worked on independently financed films as a production supervisor and served as an associate producer on “Sunburn” and “Annie and Little Britches” for the British company Hemdale.

In 1980, he joined Film Finances in the role of London-based production executive. The company provided bonds for “The Terminator,” “Romancing the Stone”, and “Nightmare on Elm Street” during his tenure. Korda left Film Finances in 1985 to become the head of production at a revived RKO.

A Modest Man with a Significant Legacy

Known for his modesty and stoicism, David’s office was adorned with four movie posters: ‘The Outsiders’ and ‘Rumble Fish,’ two successful Francis Ford Coppola pictures that helped establish Film Finances as a major force in Hollywood, and ‘The Adventures of Baron Munchausen,’ a production that was saved from risking the company’s existence through David’s careful management.

Personal Life

David Korda is survived by his son, Nik, and his daughter, Lerryn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was David Korda?

David Korda was a British film producer and financier known for his work on films like “Hamburger Hill” and “After the Rain.”

When did David Korda pass away?

David Korda passed away on September 18, at the age of 87, after battling cancer.

What are some of David Korda’s most notable contributions to the film industry?

David Korda is recognized for producing films like “Hamburger Hill” and “After the Rain.” He also played a pivotal role in arranging financing for films like “The Outsiders,” “Rumble Fish,” and “The Adventures of Baron Munchausen.”

Credit: variety.com