Elia Kazan
Elia Kazan (1909–2003) was a Greek-American director, producer, and writer whose work in postwar American theatre and cinema was among the most influential of his generation. A co-founder of the Actors Studio, he was a central figure in introducing Method acting to film and worked with a remarkable list of stage and screen actors, including Marlon Brando, James Dean, Montgomery Clift, and Karl Malden. His decision to name former associates before the House Un-American Activities Committee remained controversial throughout his life. His acclaimed films include A Streetcar Named Desire, Viva Zapata!, On the Waterfront, East of Eden, A Face in the Crowd, Splendor in the Grass, and America, America.