An influential figure in independent cinema, he was born in 1929 and became renowned for his raw, improvisational style. He began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in films like "Edge of the City" and "The Dirty Dozen." Transitioning to directing, he crafted groundbreaking films such as "Shadows" and "A Woman Under the Influence," focusing on character-driven narratives. His work left a lasting legacy on American cinema, inspiring future generations of filmmakers. He passed away in 1989.