Early Life and Education of Kenneth Anger: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Kenneth Anger. A timeline of key moments.

Kenneth Anger was an influential American experimental filmmaker known for his short films, particularly the "Magick Lantern Cycle." His work blends surrealism, homoeroticism, and occult themes, often incorporating elements of erotica, documentary, and psychodrama. As one of America's first openly gay filmmakers, Anger's films challenged social norms and explored sexuality before its widespread acceptance. His fascination with Aleister Crowley and Thelema deeply influenced his cinematic style and subject matter.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

1918: Jean Anglemyer Born

In 1918, Jean Anglemyer, Kenneth Anger's older sister, was born. She was the first child of Wilbur and Lillian Anglemyer.

1921: Robert Anglemyer Born

In 1921, Robert "Bob" Anglemyer, Kenneth Anger's older brother, was born. He was the second child of Wilbur and Lillian Anglemyer.

February 3, 1927: Kenneth Anger Born

On February 3, 1927, Kenneth Anger, originally named Kenneth Wilbur Anglemyer, was born. He later became an American underground experimental filmmaker, actor, and writer.

1927: Birth of Kenneth Anger

In 1927, Kenneth Anger was born as Kenneth Wilbur Anglemyer. He grew up in a Presbyterian family and later became interested in the occult.

1935: Claims Role in Film

In 1935, according to Anger's claims, he allegedly played the Changeling Prince in "A Midsummer Night's Dream," though this is disputed.

1937: First Film

In 1937, Kenneth Anger started working on films. That year he created his first short film, marking the beginning of his career as a filmmaker.

1944: Move to Hollywood and School

In 1944, the Anglemyer family moved to Hollywood, and Kenneth began attending Beverly Hills High School.

1950: Move to Paris

In 1950, Kenneth Anger moved to Paris, France, and befriended Jean Cocteau, who inspired and supported his filmmaking endeavors.

1953: Mother's Death and Return to U.S.

In 1953, Anger's mother died, prompting his return to the U.S. to handle her estate and reconnect with the California artistic scene.

1955: Filming Thelema Abbey documentary

In 1955, Kenneth Anger and Alfred Kinsey traveled to Cefalù, Sicily, to film a documentary titled Thelema Abbey. The documentary, which was made for British television, documented Anger restoring wall paintings and performing Crowleyan rituals at the Abbey of Thelema.

1961: Return to the U.S. and Work on Scorpio Rising

In 1961, Kenneth Anger returned to the U.S. and began working on Scorpio Rising, a film exploring the biker subculture with controversial visuals and a soundtrack of popular 1960s songs.

1966: Anger on Fireworks

In 1966, Anger provided a statement about his film "Fireworks", reflecting on its themes and personal significance.

1966: Move to the William Westerfeld House and planning Lucifer Rising

In 1966, Kenneth Anger moved into the William Westerfeld House in San Francisco and began planning his film Lucifer Rising, based on Thelemite beliefs. He searched for someone to play Lucifer and met Bobby Beausoleil.

October 26, 1967: "Death" of Kenneth Anger

On October 26, 1967, Kenneth Anger publicly reinvented himself by placing an ad in The Village Voice declaring, "In Memoriam. Kenneth Anger. Filmmaker 1947–1967".

1967: Burning Previous Works

In 1967, Anger burned much of his previous film work, marking a significant moment in his artistic development.

1980: Paint Thrown on Warhol's Door

In 1980, Kenneth Anger threw paint on the front door of a house Andy Warhol had recently moved out of, which was a reaction to Warhol's success in the art world and underground film scene.

1984: Incident on Coca Crystal's Television Show

In 1984, Kenneth Anger was invited to appear on Coca Crystal's television show. He allegedly attacked talent coordinator Maureen Ivice after his demand to have his taxi fare paid was refused.

1991: Move to Palm Springs

In 1991, Kenneth Anger moved to West Arenas Boulevard in Palm Springs, California, living in what was formerly the estate of his friend Ruby Keeler.

1993: Visit to Sydney

In 1993, Kenneth Anger visited Sydney, lectured at a season of his films at the Australian Film Institute Cinema, and worked on a final treatment for a feature film about Rosaleen Norton.