James Foley, director of Glengarry Glen Ross, dead at 71

James Foley, a versatile director best known for his work on “Glengarry Glen Ross,” has passed away at the age of 71. He lost his battle with brain cancer earlier this week, as confirmed by his representative, Taylor Lomax, on Friday.

Throughout his career, Foley directed a wide range of projects, including music videos for Madonna, episodes of “House of Cards,” and the two sequels to “Fifty Shades of Grey.” However, it was his 1992 adaptation of David Mamet’s acclaimed play, “Glengarry Glen Ross,” that truly left a lasting impact on audiences. Despite not being a box office hit initially, the film went on to become a cult favorite, with Alec Baldwin’s iconic “always be closing” monologue becoming particularly memorable.

Critics have praised “Glengarry Glen Ross” as a modern exploration of masculinity, with Tim Grierson hailing it as one of the quintessential films on the subject. Foley’s ability to bring Mamet’s sharp dialogue to life on screen was a testament to his directorial skill.

Born on December 28, 1953, in Brooklyn, Foley studied film at the University of Southern California, where he caught the eye of director Hal Ashby. This early recognition paved the way for Foley to make his directorial debut with “Reckless” in 1984, followed by films like “At Close Range,” “Who’s That Girl,” and “After Dark, My Sweet.”

Foley’s diverse filmography also included collaborations with stars like Sean Penn, Madonna, Gene Hackman, and Dustin Hoffman. He worked on projects ranging from crime dramas to psychological thrillers, always bringing his unique vision to the screen.

In a career spanning several decades, Foley continued to challenge himself as a director, never content to repeat the same formula. He once stated in an interview that he preferred to follow his instincts and explore new territories in filmmaking, rather than conforming to expectations.

Foley’s legacy in the film industry is one of creativity and versatility, with his work leaving a lasting impact on audiences and fellow filmmakers alike. He is survived by his brother, Kevin Foley, and sisters Eileen and Jo Ann. His passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him.