Renowned director Robert M. Young, known for his diverse range of documentary and feature films, passed away on February 6 at the age of 99 in Los Angeles. His son Andrew confirmed his death.
Young’s career in filmmaking began with educational films in the 1950s, including the underwater documentary “Secrets of the Reef.” He later worked on impactful documentaries such as “Sit-In,” which highlighted the desegregation of lunch counters in Nashville, and “The Eskimo: Fight for Life,” which won an Emmy Award for its portrayal of Indigenous Netsilik people.
In the realm of feature films, Young directed “Alambrista!,” a story about a Mexican man crossing the US border, and “The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez,” based on a true story of a manhunt in Texas. His work was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
Young’s films often tackled challenging subjects, such as in “Extremities,” where a woman seeks revenge on her attacker. His dedication to storytelling that was both enlightening and revealing was evident throughout his career.
In addition to his filmmaking legacy, Young is survived by his children and grandchildren. His impact on the film industry will be remembered for years to come.
