When it comes to directors having a variety of different films under their belt with a distinct aesthetic to it, look no further than costume designer turned filmmaker Joel Schumacher. Schumacher is known for many films over the years from various genres including Lost Boys, St. Elmo’s Fire and Falling Down. Unfortunately on June 22nd, 2020, Joel Schumacher died at age of 80 due to an year long battle with cancer. 

Schumacher started his film career with the sci-fi comedy of the 80s, The Incredible Shrinking Woman, but his career didn’t truly take off until 1985. That year Schumacher directed the coming of age college film St. Elmo’s Fire, receiving much acclaim with the film releasing at the height of other 80s coming of age teen films like The Breakfast Club. After St. Elmo’s Fire, Schumacher’s next film would be the horror classic The Lost Boys. This is easily the most recognizable film of Schumacher’s career due to it’s strong cult following and critical acclaim, helping to bring vampires into the mainstream film industry.

Schumacher has another cult favorite in his filmography with the Michael Douglas thriller Falling Down. Despite the mixed reception the film had at the time, it has since gained a following due to its dark humor and themes. Since then Schumacher has directed films in different genres including Phone Booth, the musical film adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera, and Batman films Batman Forever and Batman and Robin.

While not every film Joel Schumacher made was a hit financial or even critically, Schumacher will always be remembered for range of memorable films he made. He was also influential for being one of the biggest voices in queer cinema, becoming one of the most well recognized gay directors out there. His films were always memorable, whether good or bad, and he had a clear passion for his work. May he rest in peace.