Born in Chicago in 1912, he became a pivotal figure in American cinema, known for his work in the action and crime genres. After starting his career in Hollywood's montage department, he directed his first feature film in the 1940s. He gained prominence with films like "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" (1956) and "Dirty Harry" (1971), showcasing his knack for tight, suspenseful storytelling. His collaborations with Clint Eastwood were particularly notable, influencing a generation of filmmakers.