Hal Needham

A master of high-octane thrills and daring stunts, Hal Needham was born in 1931 in Memphis, Tennessee, USA and his active years spanned from 1955 to 1996. He predominantly directed action and comedy films, with "Smokey and the Bandit" and "The Cannonball Run" being among his most popular works. Needham, who was awarded the Governor's Award at the 2012 Academy Awards, had a distinctive style that was marked by thrilling car chases and innovative stunts. From the heart, Hal Needham was a true daredevil in the world of cinema, whose passion for action and adventure leaped off the screen and captivated audiences around the globe.