James Foley, the acclaimed Hollywood director behind numerous iconic films and music videos, has passed away at the age of 71 following a battle with brain cancer, his representatives confirmed earlier this week.
Foley leaves behind a storied career that spanned four decades, impacting both the film and music industries.
From Indie Roots to Hollywood Spotlight
Foley began his journey in the entertainment industry in the mid-1980s, directing the film Reckless in 1984. However, it was his work in music videos that brought him early attention — particularly his collaborations with Madonna during the height of her stardom.
Foley directed several of her most memorable music videos, including:
- Live to Tell
- Papa Don’t Preach
- True Blue
- Open Your Heart
These projects not only showcased his cinematic style but also helped redefine the visual language of pop music videos in the MTV era.
Major Film Credits: ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ and the ‘Fifty Shades’ Franchise
Foley reached international acclaim with his direction of Glengarry Glen Ross (1992), an adaptation of David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. The film featured a powerhouse cast including Al Pacino, Alec Baldwin, Jack Lemmon, Kevin Spacey, and Ed Harris. Pacino received an Oscar nomination for his performance, and the film is still regarded as a modern classic.
In more recent years, Foley introduced his vision to a new generation of viewers by directing two of the films in the blockbuster Fifty Shades of Grey franchise:
- Fifty Shades Darker (2017)
- Fifty Shades Freed (2018)
Both films enjoyed commercial success and extended Foley’s relevance well into the 21st century.
Small Screen Contributions
Beyond the big screen, Foley brought his directorial talents to high-profile television dramas including:
- House of Cards
- Billions
- Hannibal
- Twin Peaks
- Wayward Pines
His ability to create tension, mood, and depth translated seamlessly to serialized storytelling.
A Final Project Unfinished
According to IMDb, Foley was actively developing a scripted series exploring the relationship between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev prior to his death. It’s currently unclear whether the project will move forward posthumously.
Legacy and Remembrance
Foley’s work has left a lasting mark on both cinema and music, with his name tied to cult classics, pop icons, and major franchises alike. His visionary direction shaped unforgettable performances and visual moments that span generations.
He is survived by his family, friends, and countless collaborators who admired his artistry and dedication to storytelling.
Rest in peace, James Foley. Your work will live on.
