An innovative American film director, screenwriter, and producer, he was known for his distinctive blend of horror, thriller, and satire. Emerging in the 1970s, he became renowned for low-budget cult classics that often critiqued societal issues. His notable works include "It's Alive," a horror feature about a monstrous infant, and "Q: The Winged Serpent." Prior to filmmaking, he wrote for television, including crime dramas. His unique style and ability to weave social commentary into genre films left a lasting impact on cult cinema.