Alan Parker, the cutting-edge British director who was known to film and music fans alike, died at age 76 on Friday. Capping his directorial career with 2003’s “The Life of David Gale,” Parker leaves behind a canon that defined the look and feel of the four decades in which he was active.
Whether you were a lifelong fan or are just learning about his oeuvre, below are 10 films that showcase Parker at his best.
‘Evita’ (1996): Taking an Oscar for Best Original Song (“You Must Love Me”), “Evita” was the first attempt at a film adaptation of an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical since 1973’s “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Madonna took on the lead role of Argentina’s Eva Peron opposite Jonathan Pryce and Antonio Banderas.
The film received mixed reviews, but, as with many Parker projects, moved songs from the 1978 rock opera into the public consciousness. Remixes of “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” topped club charts in the U.S. and Madonna earned critical praise for her vocal performance. At the very least, most critics agree it’s better than last year’s “Cats.”
Full article at YorkDispatch
