Steven Spielberg is a highly successful American filmmaker who played a key role in the New Hollywood era and pioneered the modern blockbuster. His impressive career boasts numerous awards, including three Oscars, two BAFTAs, and nine Golden Globes, solidifying his place as a cinematic legend. Spielberg's impact extends beyond commercial success, with seven of his films deemed culturally significant and preserved in the National Film Registry.
In 1906, Spielberg's paternal grandfather, Shmuel Spielberg, immigrated to Cincinnati from Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine, to avoid being conscripted into the Russian army.
In 1908, Spielberg's paternal grandmother, Rebecca (née Chechik), immigrated from Sudylkiv, Ukraine to Cincinnati, to join Spielberg's grandfather.
Arnold Spielberg, Steven Spielberg's father, was born in 1917.
In 1919, United Artists was founded.
Leah Posner, Steven Spielberg's mother, was born in 1920.
Spielberg drew inspiration from the film "Captains Courageous" (1937).
The film "Pinocchio" (1940) served as an inspiration to a young Steven Spielberg.
"A Guy Named Joe," released in 1943, served as the inspiration for Spielberg's later film "Always."
Steven Spielberg was born on December 18, 1946, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The release of Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life" in 1946 left a profound impact on Spielberg's cinematic sensibilities, particularly in its exploration of family, community, and suburban life, themes that would resonate throughout his filmography. Beyond Capra, Spielberg's influences included cinematic masters like Alfred Hitchcock, David Lean, John Ford, Stanley Kubrick, and John Frankenheimer. His college years exposed him to the world of foreign cinema, with directors like Ingmar Bergman, Jacques Tati, and his personal favorite, François Truffaut, leaving their mark on his artistic vision. The legendary Spencer Tracy's performances and the iconic series "The Twilight Zone" also played a role in shaping Spielberg's approach to storytelling and character development.
In 1952, the Spielberg family relocated to Haddon Township, New Jersey, after Spielberg's father secured employment with RCA.
Steven Spielberg began attending Hebrew school in 1953 under the tutelage of Rabbi Albert L. Lewis.
Spielberg's passion for film began at a young age, drawing inspiration from movies like "Godzilla, King of the Monsters!" (1956), Akira Kurosawa's films, and others.
Steven Spielberg completed his studies at Hebrew school in 1957.
In early 1957, the Spielberg family moved to Phoenix, Arizona. During his adolescence, Spielberg faced challenges accepting his Jewish heritage amidst experiencing anti-semitism.
In 1958, Spielberg, as a Boy Scout, made a nine-minute 8mm film, "The Last Gunfight," for his photography merit badge. He continued to make amateur films and eventually became an Eagle Scout.
Bridge of Spies is a Cold War thriller centered around the 1960 U-2 incident, where an American pilot was captured by the Soviets.
Steven Spielberg attended Arcadia High School for three years, beginning in 1961.
Spielberg cited David Lean's "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) as a significant influence on his journey into filmmaking.
Spielberg wrote and directed his first independent film, the science fiction adventure "Firelight," in 1963.
In the summer of 1964, Spielberg gained valuable experience working as an unpaid assistant in the editorial department of Universal Studios.
Spielberg graduated from Saratoga High School in 1965. This same year, his parents divorced, leading Spielberg to move to Los Angeles to live with his father, while his mother and sisters stayed in Saratoga.
In 1968, Spielberg's short film "Amblin'" caught the attention of Universal, leading to a seven-year directing contract.
Spielberg's first professional directing gig was in 1969 on the pilot episode of "Night Gallery," which presented challenges due to his young age and innovative techniques.
Spielberg directed "Duel" for television in 1971, which garnered critical acclaim and led to its release in international markets.
Steven Spielberg directed the television film "Duel" in 1971, which gained international recognition and a theatrical release.
The Munich massacre, in which eleven Israeli Olympic athletes were kidnapped and murdered, took place in 1972. This event deeply affected Spielberg, who later directed the film Munich (2005) based on these events.
In 1972, Spielberg directed the television movie "Something Evil."
Spielberg directed the television movie "Savage" in 1973.
Spielberg made his theatrical film debut with "The Sugarland Express" in 1974.
Spielberg's first theatrical film, "The Sugarland Express," was released in 1974. Although critically acclaimed, it was not a commercial success.
Steven Spielberg and composer John Williams's legendary partnership commenced in 1974 with "The Sugarland Express," marking the start of a decades-long collaboration that would redefine cinematic music.
Steven Spielberg's passion for video games ignited in 1974, marking the beginning of a lifelong interest.
In 1975, "Jaws" became a massive box office hit, solidifying Spielberg's status as a major director and showcasing his ability to create suspense with limited visuals.
In 1975, Spielberg directed "Jaws," which became a massive summer blockbuster, solidifying his position in Hollywood.
Spielberg first discussed the possibility of making "Always" with Richard Dreyfuss in 1975.
The year 1975 saw John Williams earn his first Academy Award for Best Original Score for his chilling and unforgettable work on Spielberg's iconic thriller "Jaws."
On August 9, 1976, Jessica Capshaw was born. She later became Steven Spielberg's stepdaughter when Spielberg married her mother, Kate Capshaw.
In 1976, Spielberg encountered actress Amy Irving during her audition for "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." This marked the start of their relationship, although Irving's age prevented her from securing the role at that time.
Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" was released in 1977, earning him his first Best Director Oscar nomination and showcasing his innovative filmmaking techniques.
Spielberg continued his success with the release of the science fiction film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in 1977.
Spielberg served as executive producer for Robert Zemeckis's directorial debut, "I Wanna Hold Your Hand," in 1978.
According to film critic Tom Shone in 2004, the period from 1979 to 2004 marked a time when Steven Spielberg's work best exemplified the potential of film.
After dating for a few years, Steven Spielberg and Amy Irving decided to part ways in 1979. This break-up, however, proved to be temporary as they would reunite later.
Spielberg's action-comedy "1941," released in 1979, received mixed reviews despite its commercial success.
In 1980, Spielberg took on the role of producer for the comedy "Used Cars," directed by Robert Zemeckis. While the film garnered critical acclaim, it unfortunately didn't achieve commercial success.
1981 marked the release of "Raiders of the Lost Ark," a groundbreaking action-adventure film directed by Spielberg. A tribute to the classic serials of the 1930s and 1940s, the film, starring Harrison Ford and Karen Allen, was a massive box office hit and earned numerous accolades, including several Academy Awards.
Spielberg began the iconic "Indiana Jones" trilogy in 1981, captivating audiences with its adventure and thrills.
In 1982, Spielberg released the critically acclaimed and immensely popular science fiction film "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial."
Spielberg captivated audiences worldwide with the release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" in 1982. The heartwarming science fiction film, centered around a young boy's friendship with an alien, received critical acclaim and became a global phenomenon. It garnered multiple Academy Awards and solidified Spielberg's standing as a visionary filmmaker.
Steven Spielberg co-produced the supernatural horror film "Poltergeist" in 1982.
Williams's second Oscar for Best Original Score came in 1982 for his enchanting and emotionally resonant music for "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," further solidifying his synergy with Spielberg's directorial vision.
Steven Spielberg and Amy Irving rekindled their romance in 1984, a few years after their initial break-up. Their renewed relationship soon led to marriage and the birth of their son.
Steven Spielberg, alongside Frank Marshall and Kathleen Kennedy, established Amblin Entertainment in 1984. This period saw Spielberg's prolific involvement as producer or executive producer on nineteen feature films, many targeting younger audiences, including beloved titles like "The Goonies," "Back to the Future," and "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." His influence extended to animated productions such as "Tiny Toon Adventures," "Animaniacs," and collaborations with Don Bluth on "An American Tail" and "The Land Before Time."
Spielberg continued the Indiana Jones saga with the release of "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" in 1984. While a commercial success and winner of an Academy Award for its special effects, the film's darker tone, compared to its predecessor, sparked some debate and contributed to the creation of the PG-13 rating.
Spielberg co-produced the comedy horror film "Gremlins" in 1984.
In 1984, Spielberg partnered with Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall to establish Amblin Entertainment, a film production company. Amblin would go on to produce a diverse array of successful films, many of which were geared towards younger viewers.
In November 1985, Steven Spielberg married actress Amy Irving. They had begun dating in 1976 after she auditioned for his film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," though their relationship saw an interruption before being rekindled in 1984.
Spielberg ventured into television with "Amazing Stories," an anthology series that premiered in 1985. Despite its promising premise and Spielberg's creative control, the show, unfortunately, faced challenges with ratings and was concluded after two seasons.
In 1985, Spielberg served as a co-producer on the science fiction comedy "Back to the Future."
Spielberg delved into drama with "The Color Purple" in 1985, showcasing his versatility as a director.
In 1985, Steven Spielberg directed "The Color Purple," a film adaptation of Alice Walker's novel. The movie, starring Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, explored the lives of African-American women during the Depression era.
Sword of Gideon, a television film adaptation of the book Vengeance, which also served as the basis for Spielberg's Munich, was released in 1986.
He further explored dramatic storytelling with the release of "Empire of the Sun" in 1987.
Steven Spielberg was honored with the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award in 1987, recognizing his exceptional contributions as a creative producer and his significant impact on the film industry.
On August 21, 1988, Steven Spielberg adopted Theo Spielberg.
In 1988, Amblin Entertainment released "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," a groundbreaking blend of live-action and animation directed by Robert Zemeckis.
Spielberg co-produced the animated/live-action comedy mystery film "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" in 1988.
In 1989, Steven Spielberg received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, acknowledging his past involvement with the Boy Scouts of America and his exemplary character. Drawing upon his Scouting background, Spielberg collaborated with the Boy Scouts of America to introduce a merit badge in cinematography. This initiative aimed to encourage young people to explore the world of filmmaking and recognize it as a valuable and marketable skill. The badge was officially launched at the 1989 National Scout Jamboree, reflecting Spielberg's dedication to nurturing future generations of filmmakers.
Spielberg released "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" in 1989. This third installment in the franchise saw Harrison Ford return as Indiana Jones, with Sean Connery joining the cast as his father.
In 1989, Steven Spielberg and Amy Irving went through a divorce, ending their marriage of a few years. Despite the separation, they committed to co-parent their son, Max, and live in proximity to facilitate shared custody. The divorce settlement was widely reported as one of the most expensive in history.
"Always," a romantic drama directed by Spielberg, was also released in 1989. This film, starring Richard Dreyfuss, is a remake of the 1943 classic "A Guy Named Joe."
On May 14, 1990, Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw welcomed their daughter, Sasha Rebecca Spielberg, into the world.
Between 1984 and 1990, Amblin Entertainment, under Spielberg's guidance, was prolific, producing or executive producing a remarkable nineteen feature films. This era showcased Amblin's diverse range, from family-friendly adventures like "The Goonies" to the comedic charm of "Joe Versus the Volcano."
By 1990, Amblin Entertainment, with Spielberg at the helm, had cemented its position as a powerhouse in family-friendly entertainment, leaving a lasting legacy on film and television.
Michael Crichton's novel "Jurassic Park," which Spielberg would later adapt into a film, was published in 1990.
On October 12, 1991, Steven Spielberg married actress Kate Capshaw, whom he met while filming "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom." Capshaw converted to Judaism in preparation for their marriage, a decision that Spielberg acknowledged as influential in his reconnection with his Jewish faith.
Martin Scorsese's thriller "Cape Fear," produced by Spielberg, was released in 1991.
Spielberg directed "Hook" in 1991, a film starring Robin Williams as a grown-up Peter Pan. The film received mixed reviews.
Sawyer Avery Spielberg, son of Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, was born on March 10, 1992.
By 1992, Spielberg expressed a desire to reduce his involvement in producing, suggesting a shift in his priorities within the film industry.
On March 1, 1993, Spielberg began filming "Schindler's List" in Poland. The film tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved Jewish lives during the Holocaust.
Steven Spielberg and cinematographer Janusz Kamiński embarked on their enduring partnership in 1993 with the poignant Holocaust drama "Schindler's List." The film, shot in stark black and white, earned Kamiński his first Academy Award for Best Cinematography. This marked a shift in Spielberg's career toward more dramatic themes, with "Schindler's List" and "Amistad" showcasing a move toward handheld camerawork, adding a layer of realism to the narratives.
Spielberg served as executive producer for the NBC science fiction series "seaQuest DSV" in 1993.
Spielberg directed "Jurassic Park," based on Michael Crichton's novel, in 1993. The film, featuring groundbreaking computer-generated imagery, became a record-breaking box office success.
1993 marked Williams's third Academy Award win for Best Original Score for his haunting and evocative compositions in "Schindler's List." This collaboration was particularly poignant, with Williams initially hesitant, believing the film's emotional depth demanded a composer of greater caliber. Spielberg's now-famous response, "I know. But they're all dead!" underscored their deep mutual respect and understanding.
Spielberg had a momentous year in 1993, directing both the groundbreaking science fiction thriller "Jurassic Park" and the deeply moving Holocaust drama "Schindler's List."
In 1994, Steven Spielberg took a break from directing to focus on his family and establish his new film studio, DreamWorks, with Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen. They aimed for more creative control and distribution improvements.
In 1994, seeking increased creative control and distribution autonomy, Steven Spielberg partnered with Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen to found DreamWorks studio. The trio drew parallels between their venture and the formation of United Artists in 1919, highlighting their ambition to reshape the film industry. Notably, DreamWorks garnered support from tech giants Paul Allen and Bill Gates, co-founders of Microsoft. Despite this new venture, Spielberg continued to oversee Amblin Entertainment and collaborate with other studios.
Spielberg found success as a producer on the medical drama "ER" in 1994.
Steven Spielberg received an honorary degree from the University of Southern California in 1994.
In 1995, Steven Spielberg received the AFI Life Achievement Award.
Spielberg's influence extended to the adventure game genre in 1995 when he played a role in the creation and design of LucasArts' "The Dig."
Steven Spielberg's illustrious career was celebrated in 1995 when he was presented with the esteemed AFI Life Achievement Award by the American Film Institute. This prestigious award acknowledged his remarkable contributions to the world of cinema and his enduring legacy as a master storyteller.
On February 28, 1996, Mikaela George was adopted by Steven Spielberg.
Destry Allyn Spielberg, son of Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, was born on December 1, 1996.
In 1996, Spielberg collaborated with software developers Knowledge Adventure on "Steven Spielberg's Director's Chair." The game featured Spielberg himself, guiding and directing players.
Life magazine named Steven Spielberg the most influential person of his generation in 1996.
In May 1997, Spielberg returned to directing with "The Lost World: Jurassic Park," a sequel to his previous blockbuster. The film aimed for more realistic dinosaurs using advanced special effects.
Spielberg directed and released the historical drama "Amistad" in 1997.
In 1997, Steven Spielberg experienced a security threat when a man named Jonathan Norman stalked him and tried to break into his residence. Norman was apprehended and sentenced to 25 years in prison for his actions.
In 1997, Spielberg released "Amistad," a historical drama based on the true story of the slave ship La Amistad. The film explored the complexities of the 1839 event and starred a renowned cast.
In 1998, Spielberg directed the World War II epic "Saving Private Ryan." The film garnered critical acclaim for its realistic depiction of war and earned Spielberg his second Academy Award for Best Director.
In 1998, Steven Spielberg was bestowed with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, a highly esteemed honor recognizing his significant contributions to German-American relations and his work in Holocaust remembrance. German President Roman Herzog presented the award to Spielberg, specifically acknowledging the impact of his film "Schindler's List" and his unwavering commitment to preserving the memory of the Holocaust through the Shoah Foundation.
Spielberg won his second Academy Award for Best Director for the World War II epic "Saving Private Ryan" in 1998.
The year 1998 marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks in "Saving Private Ryan." Hanks's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
In August 1999, Spielberg and Tom Hanks received the Distinguished Public Service Medal for their work on "Saving Private Ryan" from Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen.
A "Millennium Movies" survey of British film fans conducted by Sky Premier channel in 1999 placed seven of Steven Spielberg's films in the top 100, making him the most popular director.
In 1999, Steven Spielberg received an honorary degree from Brown University.
In 1999, Steven Spielberg's exceptional work on the critically acclaimed war film "Saving Private Ryan" earned him significant accolades. He was honored with the Medal for Distinguished Public Service, recognizing the film's profound impact on raising awareness and understanding of the sacrifices made during World War II. The Directors Guild of America also acknowledged Spielberg's directorial prowess, presenting him with the award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Motion Pictures for "Saving Private Ryan."
Spielberg took on the role of executive producer for the World War II miniseries "Band of Brothers" in 1999.
On December 31, 1999, Steven Spielberg, in collaboration with former President Bill Clinton for the USA Millennium celebrations, directed an 18-minute film titled "The American Journey." Scored by John Williams, the film premiered at America's Millennium Gala, held at the National Mall's Reflecting Pool, situated near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Steven Spielberg was awarded an honorary knighthood, KBE, by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001, recognizing his contributions to the British film industry.
In 2001, Steven Spielberg stepped down from his position on the national advisory board of the Boy Scouts of America. This decision was driven by his disagreement with the organization's stance against homosexuality, highlighting his commitment to inclusivity.
Spielberg directed and released the science fiction film "A.I. Artificial Intelligence" in 2001.
In 2001, Steven Spielberg became the target of a stalker, Diana Napolis, a conspiracy theorist and former social worker. Napolis accused Spielberg and actress Jennifer Love Hewitt of orchestrating a mind-control plot against her and being members of a satanic group. Authorities intervened, and Napolis was placed in a mental health facility. She eventually entered a guilty plea for stalking charges and was released on probation, contingent upon maintaining distance from both Spielberg and Hewitt.
Beyond film, Spielberg and Hanks's collaboration extended to television, executive producing the war miniseries "Band of Brothers" in 2001, which garnered them Primetime Emmy Awards.
In 2001, Spielberg delved back into science fiction with "A.I. Artificial Intelligence," a film based on Brian Aldiss's short story. The movie, starring Haley Joel Osment, explored themes of artificial consciousness and emotions.
Despite achieving Hollywood success, Spielberg returned to Long Beach in 2002 to finish his Bachelor of Arts in Film and Electronic Media.
In 2002, Spielberg and Hanks teamed up again for the critically acclaimed film "Catch Me If You Can."
Spielberg directed the science fiction film "Minority Report" in 2002.
Spielberg had two releases in 2002: "Minority Report," a sci-fi thriller praised for its visual effects and thought-provoking themes, and "Catch Me If You Can," a biographical crime film that garnered acclaim for its performances and engaging storyline.
Steven Spielberg was awarded an honorary degree from Yale University in 2002.
In 2003, Premiere magazine ranked Steven Spielberg first on their list of the 100 Most Powerful People in Movies.
In 2003, Steven Spielberg received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on 6801 Hollywood Boulevard. That same year, he was also honored with the Blessed are the Peacemakers Award from the Catholic Theological Union.
Premiere magazine ranked Steven Spielberg first on their list of the 100 Most Powerful People in Movies in 2003.
In 2004, Spielberg directed Hanks in "The Terminal."
In 2004, film critic Tom Shone acknowledged Steven Spielberg's influence, stating that he exemplified the medium of film at its best.
In 2004, Spielberg directed "The Terminal," a comedy-drama starring Tom Hanks. The film, set entirely in an airport, showcased Spielberg's ability to find human stories within unique settings.
In 2004, French President Jacques Chirac bestowed upon Steven Spielberg France's highest civil honor, the Legion of Honour.
In December 2005, Spielberg and his partners decided to sell their studio, DreamWorks, to Viacom.
Empire magazine placed Steven Spielberg at number one on their list of the greatest film directors of all time in 2005.
In 2005, Spielberg directed two contrasting films: the science fiction spectacle "War of the Worlds" and the historical drama "Munich."
In 2005, Spielberg partnered with Electronic Arts (EA) on several gaming projects, including the Wii title "Boom Blox" and its sequel, "Boom Blox Bash Party." He also conceived and spearheaded EA's renowned "Medal of Honor" franchise.
In 2005, Steven Spielberg released Munich, a historical thriller about the Israeli government's covert response to the 1972 Munich massacre.
In 2005, Tom Cruise, a frequent collaborator of Spielberg's, bestowed upon him the title of "the greatest storyteller cinema's ever known," highlighting the profound impact Spielberg's directorial prowess had on his actors. This sentiment underscored Spielberg's loyalty towards his collaborators, which extended beyond actors to include long-time partnerships with editor Michael Kahn, production designer Rick Carter, writer David Koepp, and producer Kathleen Kennedy.
Spielberg directed "War of the Worlds" in 2005, a science fiction film adapted from H.G. Wells's classic novel. The film, featuring Tom Cruise, presented a modern take on the alien invasion narrative.
Steven Spielberg was inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame in 2005, marking the first year the hall considered non-literary contributors.
The sale of DreamWorks to Viacom (now known as Paramount Global) was finalized in February 2006.
Spielberg planned to direct Interstellar in June 2006, but ultimately decided to abandon the project, which was later directed by Christopher Nolan.
On July 15, 2006, Steven Spielberg was honored with the Gold Hugo Lifetime Achievement Award at the Summer Gala of the Chicago International Film Festival.
Steven Spielberg was awarded the Kennedy Center Honor in 2006.
The Arab League decided to boycott Steven Spielberg's movies in 2007. This move came as a reaction to Spielberg's decision to donate $1 million to relief efforts in Israel during the 2006 Lebanon War, demonstrating the political implications of his philanthropic actions.
On February 20, 2007, Steven Spielberg, alongside Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen, took an active role in supporting Barack Obama's political aspirations. They organized a fundraising event specifically aimed at gathering support from members of the Democratic Party for Obama's presidential campaign.
Spielberg ventured into reality television in 2007, co-producing "On the Lot," a show about filmmaking, with Mark Burnett.
In February 2008, Steven Spielberg made the significant decision to resign from his advisory role in the 2008 Summer Olympics held in Beijing, China. His resignation was a direct response to the Chinese government's lack of action and perceived complicity in the ongoing atrocities and human rights violations occurring in Darfur, Sudan. Spielberg's public statement emphasized that his conscience compelled him to distance himself from the event, stating that he could not continue with "business as usual" in light of the situation. He specifically called out the Chinese government's inaction, stating that while the Sudanese government bore primary responsibility for the crimes against humanity in Darfur, the global community, and particularly China, should have been more proactive in their efforts to address the crisis. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), while acknowledging and respecting Spielberg's decision, conveyed their disappointment at his withdrawal. IOC President Jacques Rogge, in particular, emphasized the creative contributions Spielberg would have brought to the Olympic Games' opening ceremony. In contrast to the IOC's response, Chinese state media criticized Spielberg's stance, labeling his comments as "unfair." This incident highlighted the complex interplay of politics, human rights, and international relations within the context of a major global event.
In February 2008, Steven Spielberg was honored with the Visual Effects Society Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the visual effects industry.
In June 2008, Arizona State University awarded Steven Spielberg the Hugh Downs Award for Communication Excellence.
In September 2008, Steven Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, showed their support for same-sex marriage in California through concrete actions. They donated $100,000 to the "No on Proposition 8" campaign, a movement opposing a ballot initiative that aimed to restrict marriage to opposite-sex couples only. This significant contribution, equal to the amount donated by actor Brad Pitt a week prior, demonstrated their strong belief in marriage equality.
In May 2009, Steven Spielberg purchased the rights to Martin Luther King Jr.'s life story, aiming to produce and direct a film. However, the deal, made with the estate led by King's son Dexter, drew immediate backlash from King's other children, Bernice and Martin III, who threatened legal action, claiming they hadn't approved the project.
Steven Spielberg was awarded the Philadelphia Liberty Medal in October 2009, with former U.S. President Bill Clinton presenting the award.
DreamWorks signed a distribution deal with Walt Disney Studios in 2009, leading to the release of War Horse as the first of four consecutive Spielberg films distributed by Disney.
In 2009, Steven Spielberg received the Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, recognizing his significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Spielberg began filming the first installment of a planned motion capture trilogy based on Hergé's The Adventures of Tintin in early 2009.
Steven Spielberg received an honorary degree from Boston University in 2009.
Steven Spielberg was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2009.
Continuing their successful foray into television, Spielberg and Hanks executive produced "The Pacific" in 2010, another war miniseries that earned them Primetime Emmy Awards.
DreamWorks acquired the rights to Roald Dahl's The BFG in 2010.
Spielberg co-created the science fiction series Falling Skies with Robert Rodat in 2011. He also produced several other projects that year, including Terra Nova and Super 8.
Spielberg filmed the historical drama Lincoln in Richmond, Virginia in late 2011.
Lincoln, a historical drama directed by Spielberg and starring Daniel Day-Lewis as Abraham Lincoln, was released in the U.S. in November 2012.
Spielberg directed and released the historical drama "Lincoln" in 2012.
In March 2013, Steven Spielberg revealed his plans to develop a miniseries centered around the life of Napoleon Bonaparte.
It was announced on May 2, 2013, that Spielberg would direct American Sniper, but he eventually left the project.
On November 19, 2013, Steven Spielberg received the Records of Achievement Award from the National Archives and Records Administration. He was given two copies of the 13th Amendment, one from 1861 and the other signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1865, recognizing his work on the film "Lincoln."
Time magazine included Steven Spielberg on their list of the 100 most influential people in 2013.
In 2013, Steven Spielberg made a significant purchase, acquiring "The Seven Seas," a mega-yacht measuring 282 feet, for a sum of US$182 million. He later decided to put the yacht up for sale while also making it available for charter. The monthly rental cost for "The Seven Seas" is a substantial US$1.2 million, placing it among the highest-priced yacht charters globally. Additionally, Spielberg has commissioned the construction of a new, even larger yacht, measuring 300 feet, with an estimated cost of US$250 million.
In 2013, Time magazine recognized Spielberg's immense influence by including him in their list of the 100 most influential people.
Bridge of Spies was filmed in New York City, Berlin, and Wroclaw in the fall of 2014.
First revealed in 2014, Spielberg's planned adaptation of "The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara" involved Tony Kushner scripting and Mark Rylance, a frequent collaborator, cast as Pope Pius IX. Spielberg's search for the lead role of Edgardo Mortara involved auditions from over 2,000 children.
In 2014, Forbes magazine ranked Steven Spielberg first on their list of the Most Influential Celebrities.
On November 24, 2015, Steven Spielberg was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama at the White House.
Steven Spielberg directed and released the historical drama "Bridge of Spies" in 2015.
Steven Spielberg received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.
In 2015, news broke of Spielberg's attachment to direct an adaptation of Lynsey Addario's memoir, "It's What I Do," featuring Jennifer Lawrence in the starring role.
Spielberg directed the Cold War thriller Bridge of Spies, which was released in 2015.
In 2015, during an interview with The Tech, Spielberg provided insights into his meticulous process for choosing film projects.
In 2015, Kamiński's cinematography in the historical epic "Lincoln" earned him another Academy Award nomination, further solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
2015 saw Spielberg and Hanks collaborate on the historical drama "Bridge of Spies."
In May 2016, it was revealed that Cary Joji Fukunaga was in discussions to helm Spielberg's Napoleon miniseries for HBO, working from a script penned by David Leland, which drew upon extensive research materials compiled by the late Stanley Kubrick.
The BFG, a film adaptation of Roald Dahl's children's book directed by Spielberg, was released widely in the U.S. on July 1, 2016.
The BBC children's television program Blue Peter awarded Steven Spielberg a gold Blue Peter badge in July 2016.
Steven Spielberg began production on the science fiction film "Ready Player One" in July 2016. Based on Ernest Cline's novel, the film promised a futuristic world heavily reliant on virtual reality.
In 2016, the development of "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was announced, with David Koepp attached to write the screenplay. Steven Spielberg, although stepping down from directing, remained involved as a producer.
Steven Spielberg publicly endorsed Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential election, underscoring his support for the Democratic candidate. His endorsement was accompanied by a significant financial contribution of $1 million to Priorities USA Action, a political action committee that supported Clinton's campaign.
In 2016, Spielberg honored John Williams with the 44th AFI Life Achievement Award, a testament to their enduring collaboration and Williams's unparalleled contribution to film music. This marked the first time a composer received this prestigious accolade.
By March 2017, the World War II miniseries, then under the working title "The Mighty Eighth", was in production. The series, executive produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, aimed to depict the experiences of the American Eighth Air Force during the war.
On May 30, 2017, Steven Spielberg commenced production on "The Post" in New York. The film, starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, centered around The Washington Post's publication of the Pentagon Papers.
Leah Adler, Steven Spielberg's mother, passed away in 2017.
Originally slated for filming in early 2017, Steven Spielberg's adaptation of David I. Kertzer's "The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara" faced postponement.
Spielberg and Hanks joined forces once more in 2017 for "The Post."
Spielberg directed and released the historical drama "The Post" in 2017.
On January 12, 2018, "The Post", directed by Steven Spielberg, saw its wide release. The film, depicting The Washington Post's role in the Pentagon Papers case, garnered positive reviews for its compelling narrative and direction.
Steven Spielberg's "Ready Player One" premiered at the South by Southwest film festival in March 2018. While praised for its visual effects and action, the film received mixed reviews for its length and reliance on 1980s nostalgia.
April 2018 marked the announcement of Spielberg directing a film based on the "Blackhawk" comic series, with Warner Bros. handling distribution and David Koepp penning the screenplay.
Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw donated a significant $500,000 to "March for Our Lives" in 2018. This student-led demonstration advocated for stricter gun control measures in the United States, illustrating their support for this pressing social issue.
Steven Spielberg directed and released the science fiction film "Ready Player One" in 2018.
In May 2019, Dan Fogelman was hired to pen a new script for "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny", replacing Jonathan Kasdan's previous work. This marked yet another shift in the film's development.
"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was initially scheduled for release on July 19, 2019. However, the film faced multiple delays due to script changes and the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2019, Steven Spielberg filmed a new adaptation of the musical "West Side Story". The film featured Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler, and remained faithful to the original's 1950s setting.
The release of "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was further delayed in April 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact film production schedules globally.
Arnold Spielberg, Steven Spielberg's father, passed away in 2020.
Production for "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" commenced in the UK in June 2021. This marked a significant step forward for the long-awaited film after numerous delays and script revisions.
On June 21, 2021, Amblin Entertainment, Steven Spielberg's production company, entered a multi-year partnership with Netflix. The deal involved producing multiple new feature films for the streaming giant.
A new release date of July 9, 2021, was set for "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny". However, this date was later pushed back due to the ongoing pandemic.
In July 2021, Steven Spielberg began filming "The Fabelmans" in Los Angeles. This semi-autobiographical film, co-written with Tony Kushner, offered a fictionalized glimpse into Spielberg's adolescence.
In October 2021, the release date for "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was pushed back once again, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the film industry due to the pandemic.
Steven Spielberg's adaptation of "West Side Story" was released in December 2021, garnering positive reviews for its choreography and performances. The film received multiple Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.
Steven Spielberg directed and released the musical "West Side Story" in 2021.
Kamiński's exceptional skill was recognized once again in 2021 with an Academy Award nomination for his work on Spielberg's adaptation of "West Side Story," showcasing his ability to capture the vibrancy and emotional depth of the classic musical.
Deadline Hollywood reported in February 2022 that Steven Spielberg was developing a new film centered around the character Frank Bullitt, a San Francisco police officer. This marked a return to the action genre for the acclaimed director.
Production on "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" concluded in February 2022. The film, directed by James Mangold, marked Harrison Ford's final outing as the iconic archaeologist.
In March 2022, Steven Spielberg revealed that "West Side Story" would be his last directorial venture into the musical genre.
The release of "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was delayed until July 29, 2022, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on film production and release schedules.
On November 11, 2022, "The Fabelmans", directed by Steven Spielberg, received a limited theatrical release through Universal Pictures. The film, a personal reflection on Spielberg's formative years, later saw a wider release.
In November 2022, Bradley Cooper was cast as Frank Bullitt in Steven Spielberg's upcoming film. Cooper's involvement brought star power to the project, which aimed to reimagine the classic character for a modern audience.
In December 2022, Steven Spielberg participated in a noteworthy interview as a guest on the long-running BBC Radio 4 program, "Desert Island Discs." In a segment where interviewees choose luxury items to accompany them to a metaphorical desert island, Spielberg's selection was an H-8 Bolex Camera, reflecting his passion for filmmaking.
As of December 2022, Forbes estimated Steven Spielberg's net worth to be $4 billion.
At the age of 75 in 2022, Steven Spielberg received a positive diagnosis for COVID-19. Thankfully, he made a full recovery from the illness.
Spielberg directed and released the semi-autobiographical drama "The Fabelmans" in 2022.
In 2022, Williams continued his long-standing partnership with Spielberg, composing the score for "The Fabelmans," marking their 29th collaboration and underscoring their enduring creative bond.
On January 18, 2023, at an event for "The Fabelmans", Steven Spielberg announced his involvement as executive producer for a documentary about legendary composer John Williams. The film, directed by Laurent Bouzereau, would explore Williams's illustrious career.
After several delays, "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" was finally given a release date of June 30, 2023. This marked the fifth installment in the beloved franchise and was highly anticipated by fans.
In December 2023, following the devastating attacks on Israel led by Hamas, the Shoah Foundation, founded by Steven Spielberg, took immediate action to document the experiences of those affected by the violence. The foundation dedicated itself to collecting over 100 video testimonies from individuals who endured the attacks, adding their accounts to its vast archive of Holocaust survivor and witness testimonies. Deeply affected by the event, Spielberg publicly expressed his horror at the brutality against Jews, emphasizing that he never anticipated witnessing such atrocities in his lifetime. His commitment to the Shoah Foundation's project aimed to ensure that these stories of suffering and resilience would be recorded, preserved, and shared with the world, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred and intolerance. The project aimed to contribute to the ongoing fight against antisemitism and all forms of hatred.
In 2023, Steven Spielberg received the inaugural Time 100 Impact Award in the United States, further solidifying his legacy.
"Masters of the Air", the World War II miniseries executive produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, premiered on Apple TV+ on January 26, 2024. The series, based on Donald L. Miller's book, focuses on the American bomber crews in World War II.
News broke in April 2024 that Steven Spielberg was developing a film centered around UFOs. With David Koepp writing the screenplay, the project was based on an original idea by Spielberg, sparking curiosity among fans.