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{{Short description|American film producer}}{{For|the American film producer and screenwriter (1916–1963)|Charles Schnee}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2013}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2013}}
[[File:Charles Schneer 1974.jpg|thumb|alt=Black and white photograph of a man at bust length.|Charles H. Schneer in 1974]]
[[File:Charles Schneer 1974.jpg|thumb|alt=Black and white photograph of a man at bust length.|Charles H. Schneer in 1974]]
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'''Charles Hirsch Schneer''' (May 5, 1920 – January 21, 2009) was an American film producer, best known for working with [[Ray Harryhausen]], the specialist known for his work in [[stop motion]] [[model animation]].
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:''For the American film producer and screenwriter (1916–1963), see [[Charles Schnee]].''
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'''Charles H. Schneer''' (May 5, 1920 – January 21, 2009) was a film producer most widely known for working with [[Ray Harryhausen]], known for his work in [[stop motion]] [[model animation]].


==Life and career==
==Life and career==
Born in [[Norfolk, Virginia]], he graduated from [[Columbia University]] in 1940. Serving in the [[Signal Corps (United States Army)|US Army's Signal Corps Photographic Unit]] during the war, and moved to Hollywood following demobilisation.<ref>Thurber, J. (2009, Jan 28). Charles schneer: 1920-2009. Chicago Tribune Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/420776641</ref>
Born in [[Norfolk, Virginia]], he graduated from [[Columbia University]] in 1940. Serving in the [[United States Army|U.S. Army]]'s [[United States Army Signal Corps|Signal Corps]] Photographic Unit during [[World War II|the War]] and moved to Hollywood following [[demobilization]].<ref>{{cite news|author=Thurber, J.|date=Jan 28, 2009|title=Charles schneer: 1920–2009|work=Chicago Tribune|id={{ProQuest|420776641}}}}</ref>


===Sam Katzman===
===Sam Katzman===
Schneer joined [[Columbia Pictures]], where he wrote the script for the [[Robin Hood]] film ''[[The Prince of Thieves]]'' (1948) for [[Sam Katzman]].<ref name="sam">HOLLYWOOD SURVEY: Sharp Drop in Production Noted -- Still Another Dumas Exploit -- Other Items By THOMAS F. BBADY. New York Times (1923-Current file) [New York, N.Y] 11 May 1947: X5.</ref> He later adapted Byron's ''[[The Corsair]]'' for Katzman but it was not made.<ref>By THOMAS F BRADY Special to The New York Times. (1947, Jun 11). BYRON'S 'CORSAIR' TO BE MADE FILM. New York Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/107920421</ref>
Schneer joined [[Columbia Pictures]], where he wrote the script for the [[Robin Hood]] film ''[[The Prince of Thieves]]'' (1948) for [[Sam Katzman]].<ref name="sam">{{Cite news|title=HOLLYWOOD SURVEY: Sharp Drop in Production Noted -- Still Another Dumas Exploit -- Other Items |author=THOMAS F. BBADY|date=May 11, 1947|work=New York Times|page=X5}}</ref> He later adapted Byron's ''[[The Corsair]]'' for Katzman but it was not made.<ref>{{Cite news|title=BYRON'S 'CORSAIR' TO BE MADE FILM|author=THOMAS F BRADY|date=Jun 11, 1947|work=New York Times|id={{ProQuest|107920421}}}}</ref>


Schneer was credited as associate producer on Katzman's ''[[The 49th Man]]'' (1953).<ref>Schallert, E. (1952, Dec 06). Betsy blair wins lead in 'via flaminia;' kelly soon heading homeward. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/166416020</ref>
Schneer was credited as associate producer on Katzman's ''[[The 49th Man]]'' (1953).<ref>{{Cite news|author=Schallert, E.|title=Betsy blair wins lead in 'via flaminia;' kelly soon heading homeward.|date=Dec 6, 1952|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|166416020}}}}</ref>


Schneer worked as a producer on the TV series ''[[The Web (1950 TV series)|The Web]]'' (1954)
Schneer worked as a producer on the TV series ''[[The Web (1950 TV series)|The Web]]'' (1954)


===Ray Harryhausen===
===Ray Harryhausen===
Schneer was introduced to Harryhausen by a mutual friend from Schneer's time in the Army.<ref>{{cite web|title=Charles H Schneer|url=http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/localworld/view/1339149/charles-h-schneer|website=Family-announcements.co.uk|accessdate=10 September 2016}}</ref>
Schneer was introduced to Harryhausen by a mutual friend from Schneer's period in the Army.<ref>{{cite web|title=Charles H Schneer|url=http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/localworld/view/1339149/charles-h-schneer|website=Family-announcements.co.uk|accessdate=10 September 2016}}</ref>


Together they made ''[[It Came From Beneath The Sea]]'' (1955) (originally ''Monster from Beneath the Sea''<ref>Schallert, E. (1954, Sep 11). Benagoss seeking cobb, ryan, O'brien for films; monster story on way. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/166672390</ref>), about a giant octopus that wreaks havoc on the [[Golden Gate Bridge]]. To save money, the octopus had only six tentacles, which Schneer is reported to have been correct in claiming no one would notice.<ref>Bill Edwards [https://www.theguardian.com/film/2009/jan/29/obituary-charles-schneer-film Obituary – Charles Schneer,] ''The Guardian'', October 29, 2009</ref> This film made use of stop-motion photography which the two men were to use to greater effect in later films.
Together the two men created ''[[It Came from Beneath the Sea]]'' (1955) (originally ''Monster from Beneath the Sea''),<ref>{{Cite news|author=Schallert, E.|title=Benagoss seeking cobb, ryan, O'brien for films; monster story on way.|date=Sep 11, 1954|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|166672390}}}}</ref> about a giant octopus that wreaks havoc on the [[Golden Gate Bridge]]. To save money, the octopus had only six tentacles, which Schneer is reported to have been correct in claiming no one would notice.<ref>Bill Edwards [https://www.theguardian.com/film/2009/jan/29/obituary-charles-schneer-film Obituary – Charles Schneer], ''The Guardian'', October 29, 2009</ref> This film made use of stop-motion photography which the two men were to use to greater effect in later films.


“He was a typical producer,” Harryhausen says, “although he didn’t smoke big black cigars.”<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-life/7593495/Ray-Harryhausen-interview-Stop-motion-animation-Clash-of-the-Titans-Jason-and-the-Argonauts.html|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|title=Ray Harryhausen Interview}}</ref> Schneer would produce all Harryhausen's films except ''[[One Million Years BC]]'' (1967).
"He was a typical producer", Harryhausen says, "although he didn’t smoke big black cigars."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-life/7593495/Ray-Harryhausen-interview-Stop-motion-animation-Clash-of-the-Titans-Jason-and-the-Argonauts.html|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|title=Ray Harryhausen Interview}}</ref> Schneer would produce all Harryhausen's films except ''[[One Million Years B.C.]]'' (1967).


Harryhausen and Schneer next worked together on ''[[Earth vs. the Flying Saucers]]'' (1957) which Schneer produced.
Harryhausen and Scheer next worked together on ''[[Earth vs. the Flying Saucers]]'' (1957) which Schneer produced.


===Morningside Productions===
===Morningside Productions===
In 1956 it was announced Schneer was considering going to [[RKO]] but changed his mind and signed a new three-picture deal with Columbia for his Morningside Productions.<ref>Drama: Naish Going Primitive Again in 'Yaqui Drums;' Science Film Scheduled
In 1956, it was announced Schneer was considering joining [[RKO Pictures|RKO]] but changed his mind and signed a new three-picture deal with Columbia for his Morningside Productions.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Drama: Naish Going Primitive Again in 'Yaqui Drums;' Science Film Scheduled|author=Schallert, Edwin|date=Mar 31, 1956|work=Los Angeles Times|page=13}}</ref>
Schallert, Edwin. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File); Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]31 Mar 1956: 13.</ref>


Schneer made the romantic drama ''[[Hellcats of the Navy]]'' (1957) with [[Ronald Reagan]] and his wife Nancy; it was the first time Schneer worked with director [[Nathan H. Juran]]. He followed it with ''[[20 Million Miles to Earth]]'' (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran.
Schneer made the romantic drama ''[[Hellcats of the Navy]]'' (1957) with [[Ronald Reagan]] and his wife (billed as [[Nancy Reagan|Nancy Davis]]); it was the first time Schneer worked with director [[Nathan H. Juran]]. He followed it with ''[[20 Million Miles to Earth]]'' (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran.


In March 1957 Schneer signed a new three pictures deal with Columbia.<ref>FAULKNER NOVEL BOUGHT FOR FILM: Jerry Wald Will Produce 'The Long Hot Summer,' Based on 'The Hamlet'
In March 1957 Schneer signed a new three pictures deal with Columbia.<ref>{{Cite news|title=FAULKNER NOVEL BOUGHT FOR FILM: Jerry Wald Will Produce 'The Long Hot Summer,' Based on 'The Hamlet'|author=THOMAS M. PRYOR Special to The|date=Mar 15, 1957|work=New York Times|page=21}}</ref> He produced a noir, ''[[The Case Against Brooklyn]]'' (1958), and a war film, ''[[Tarawa Beachhead]]'' (1958), both directed by [[Paul Wendkos]].<ref>{{Cite news|author=Schallert, E.|title=Teen-agers' favorites in screen onslaught; noted dane in 'viking'.|date=May 30, 1957|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|167102198}}}}</ref> More popular than either was ''[[The 7th Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran and starring [[Kerwin Mathews]], who had been in ''Tarawa''.
By THOMAS M. PRYOR Special to The New York Times.. New York Times (1923-Current file); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]15 Mar 1957: 21</ref> He produced a noir, ''[[The Case Against Brooklyn]]'' (1958), and a war film, ''[[Tarawa Beachhead]]'' (1958), both directed by [[Paul Wendkos]].<ref>Schallert, E. (1957, May 30). Teen-agers' favorites in screen onslaught; noted dane in 'viking'. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/167102198</ref> More popular than either was ''[[The 7th Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran and starring [[Kerwin Mathews]], who had been in ''Tarawa''.


Schneer made two Westerns with [[Fred MacMurray]], ''[[Good Day for a Hanging]]'' (1959) (directed by Juran) and ''[[Face of a Fugitive]]'' (1959) (directed by Wendkos).
Schneer made two Westerns with [[Fred MacMurray]], ''[[Good Day for a Hanging]]'' (1959) (directed by Juran) and ''[[Face of a Fugitive]]'' (1959) (directed by Wendkos).


In May 1959 it was announced Schneer would make nine films for Columbia, including ''Battle of the Coral Sea'', ''I Aim at the Stars'', ''Mysterious Island'', ''Gulliver's Travels'' and ''Air Force Academy''.<ref>Scott, J. L. (1959, May 06). Portrayals spark comedy thriller. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/167521508</ref> He started the new contract with ''[[Battle of the Coral Sea (film)|Battle of the Coral Sea]]'' (1960), directed by Wendkos. ''Air Force Academy'' was never made.<ref>By THOMAS M PRYORSpecial to The New York Times. (1958, Jul 21). PECK TO BE STAR IN KRAMER FILM. New York Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/114351461</ref>
In May 1959 it was announced Schneer would make nine films for Columbia, including ''Battle of the Coral Sea'', ''I Aim at the Stars'', ''Mysterious Island'', ''Gulliver's Travels'' and ''Air Force Academy''.<ref>{{cite news|author=Scott, J. L. |date=May 6, 1959|title=Portrayals spark comedy thriller|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|167521508}}}}</ref> He started the new contract with ''[[Battle of the Coral Sea (film)|Battle of the Coral Sea]]'' (1960), directed by Wendkos. ''Air Force Academy'' was never made.<ref>{{Cite news|title=PECK TO BE STAR IN KRAMER FILM|author=THOMAS M PRYOR|date=Jul 21, 1958|work=New York Times|id={{ProQuest|114351461}}}}</ref>


===London===
===London===
In 1960, Schneer moved his base of operations to London, where he remained for 45 years. He produced a biopic of [[Wernher von Braun]], ''[[I Aim at the Stars]]'' (1960), directed by [[J. Lee Thompson]],<ref>By THOMAS M PRYORSpecial to The New York Times. (1958, Jun 02). LIFE OF VON BRAUN TO BE TOLD IN FILM. New York Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/114471680</ref> and the fantasy ''[[The 3 Worlds of Gulliver]]'' (1961), starring Matthews.<ref>Scott, J. L. (1958, Oct 06). Schneer, muhl plan 'gulliver's travels'. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/167329758</ref>
In 1960, Schneer moved his base of operations to London, where he remained for 45 years. He produced a biopic of [[Wernher von Braun]], ''[[I Aim at the Stars]]'' (1960), directed by [[J. Lee Thompson]],<ref>{{cite news|title=LIFE OF VON BRAUN TO BE TOLD IN FILM|author=THOMAS M PRYOR|date=Jun 2, 1958|work=New York Times|id={{ProQuest|114471680}}}}</ref> and the fantasy ''[[The 3 Worlds of Gulliver]]'' (1961), starring Kerwin Matthews.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Scott, J. L. |date=Oct 6, 1958|title=Schneer, muhl plan 'gulliver's travels'|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|167329758}}}}</ref>


''[[Mysterious Island (1961 film)|Mysterious Island]]'' (1961), directed by [[Cy Endfield]] was an adaptation of the [[Jules Verne]] novel, with Harryhausen effects. ''Gentleman to China'' with Lloyd Nolan was announced but never made.<ref>Nolan may fly from 'formosa' to 'china'. (1961, Mar 14). Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/167810705</ref>
''[[Mysterious Island (1961 film)|Mysterious Island]]'' (1961), directed by [[Cy Endfield]] was an adaptation of the [[Jules Verne]] novel, with Harryhausen effects. ''Gentleman to China'' with Lloyd Nolan was announced but never made.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Nolan may fly from 'formosa' to 'china'. |date=Mar 14, 1961|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|167810705}}}}</ref>


Schneer had one of his biggest successes with ''[[Jason and the Argonauts (1963 film)|Jason and the Argonauts]]'' (1963), again with Harryhausen; the script was written by [[Beverley Cross]] who would go on to do many screenplays for Schneer.
Schneer had one of his biggest successes with ''[[Jason and the Argonauts (1963 film)|Jason and the Argonauts]]'' (1963), again with Harryhausen; the screenwriter was [[Beverley Cross]] who worked with Schneer on many future projects.


Schneer produced a medieval swashbuckler, ''[[Siege of the Saxons]]'' (1963) then an Imperial adventure, ''[[East of Sudan]]'' (1963), both directed by Juran. He was reunited with Harryhausen for ''[[First Men in the Moon (film)|First Men in the Moon]]'' (1963), also from Juran.
Schneer produced a medieval swashbuckler, ''[[Siege of the Saxons]]'' (1963) then an Imperial adventure, ''[[East of Sudan]]'' (1963), both directed by Juran. He was reunited with Harryhausen for ''[[First Men in the Moon (1964 film)|First Men in the Moon]]'' (1964), also from Juran.


Schneer produced a "swinging sixties" comedy directed by [[Michael Winner]], ''[[You Must Be Joking! (1965 film)|You Must Be Joking!]]'' (1965), and the film version of the stage musical ''[[Half a Sixpence (film)|Half a Sixpence]]'' (1967) starring [[Tommy Steele]]. ''Fifth Paw of the Lion'' was announced but not made.<ref>Martin, B. (1965, Aug 28). MOVIE CALL SHEET. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File) Retrieved from https://search.proquest.com/docview/155249257</ref>
Schneer produced a "swinging sixties" comedy directed by [[Michael Winner]], ''[[You Must Be Joking! (1965 film)|You Must Be Joking!]]'' (1965), and the film version of the stage musical ''[[Half a Sixpence (film)|Half a Sixpence]]'' (1967) starring [[Tommy Steele]]. ''Fifth Paw of the Lion'' was announced but not made.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Martin, B.|title=MOVIE CALL SHEET.|date=Aug 28, 1965|work=Los Angeles Times|id={{ProQuest|155249257}}}}</ref>


He went to Spain to do a Western, ''[[Land Raiders (film)|Land Raiders]]'' (1970), then went back to fantasy for ''[[The Valley of Gwangi]]'' (1969), with Harryhausen.''[[The Executioner (1970 film)|The Executioner]]'' (1970), directed by [[Sam Wanamaker]] was a thriller.
In Spain, he produced a Western, ''[[Land Raiders (film)|Land Raiders]]'' (1970), then returned to fantasy for ''[[The Valley of Gwangi]]'' (1969), with Harryhausen.''[[The Executioner (1970 film)|The Executioner]]'' (1970), directed by [[Sam Wanamaker]] was a thriller.


===Later Films===
===Later Films===
Schneer made three more films with Harryhausen: ''[[The Golden Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1973), directed by [[Gordon Hessler]]; ''[[Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger]]'' (1977), directed by Wanamaker; and ''[[Clash of the Titans (1981 film)|Clash of the Titans]]'' (1981), directed by [[Desmond Davis]].<ref>ILLUSIONS, FANTASIES AND RAY HARRYHAUSEN
Schneer made three more films with Harryhausen: ''[[The Golden Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1973), directed by [[Gordon Hessler]]; ''[[Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger]]'' (1977), directed by Wanamaker; and ''[[Clash of the Titans (1981 film)|Clash of the Titans]]'' (1981), directed by [[Desmond Davis]].<ref>{{Cite news|title=ILLUSIONS, FANTASIES AND RAY HARRYHAUSEN|author=Mills, Bart.|date=Sep 16, 1979|work=Los Angeles Times|page=n30}}</ref>
Mills, Bart. Los Angeles Times (1923-Current File); Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]16 Sep 1979: n30.</ref>


Harryhausen later said the secret to his success with Schneer was "never agreeing... We were together for a long time. Charles always had a great sympathy for fantasy. We had many disagreements, which brings up that old saying, “if two people think exactly alike, one of them is unnecessary.” So we battled out many things in the name of the film, and in the end we’d come to a compromise."<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Lawrence|last=French|url=http://cinefantastiqueonline.com/2008/03/supernal-dreams-ray-harryhausen-interview-part-iii-on-one-million-years-bc/|magazine=Cinefantastique|date=March 2008|title=The Art of Ray Harryhausen: Interview Part 3 – "One Million Years, B.C."}}</ref>
Harryhausen later said the secret to his success with Schneer was "never agreeing... We were together for a long time. Charles always had a great sympathy for fantasy. We had many disagreements, which brings up that old saying, "if two people think exactly alike, one of them is unnecessary." So we battled out many things in the name of the film, and in the end we'd come to a compromise."<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Lawrence|last=French|url=http://cinefantastiqueonline.com/2008/03/supernal-dreams-ray-harryhausen-interview-part-iii-on-one-million-years-bc/|magazine=Cinefantastique|date=March 2008|title=The Art of Ray Harryhausen: Interview Part 3 – "One Million Years, B.C."}}</ref>


Schneer died in [[Boca Raton, Florida]], aged 88.
Schneer died in [[Boca Raton, Florida]], aged 88.


==Filmography==
==Filmography==
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
*''[[Clash of the Titans (1981 film)|Clash of the Titans]]'' (1981)
*''[[Clash of the Titans (1981 film)|Clash of the Titans]]'' (1981)
*''[[Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger]]'' (1977)
*''[[Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger]]'' (1977)
*''[[The Golden Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1974)
*''[[The Golden Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1974)
*''The Greeks Have a New Word'' (1970)
*''[[The Executioner (1970 film)|The Executioner]]'' (1970)
*''[[The Executioner (1970 film)|The Executioner]]'' (1970)
*''[[Land Raiders (film)|Land Raiders]]'' (1970)
*''[[The Valley of Gwangi]]'' (1969)
*''[[The Valley of Gwangi]]'' (1969)
*''[[Half a Sixpence]]'' (1967)
*''[[Half a Sixpence (film)|Half a Sixpence]]'' (1967)
*''[[You Must Be Joking! (1965 film)|You Must Be Joking!]]'' (1965)
*''[[First Men in the Moon (1964 film)|First Men in the Moon]]'' (1964)
*''[[First Men in the Moon (1964 film)|First Men in the Moon]]'' (1964)
*''[[East of Sudan]]'' (1964) - uncredited
* ''[[Siege of the Saxons]]'' (1963)
*''[[Jason and the Argonauts (1963 film)|Jason and the Argonauts]]'' (1963)
*''[[Jason and the Argonauts (1963 film)|Jason and the Argonauts]]'' (1963)
*''[[Mysterious Island (1961 film)|Mysterious Island]]'' (1961)
*''[[Mysterious Island (1961 film)|Mysterious Island]]'' (1961)
*''[[The 3 Worlds of Gulliver]]'' (1960)
*''[[The 3 Worlds of Gulliver]]'' (1960)
*''[[I Aim at the Stars]]''<ref>{{cite news |work=Los Angeles Times |title=Film on Von Braun's Life Has Premiere |date=October 3, 1960 |page=C8}}</ref> (1960)
*''[[I Aim at the Stars]]''<ref>{{cite news |work=Los Angeles Times |title=Film on Von Braun's Life Has Premiere |date=October 3, 1960 |page=C8}}</ref> (1960)
*''[[Battle of the Coral Sea (film)|Battle of the Coral Sea]]'' (1959)
*''[[Face of a Fugitive]]'' (1959)
*''[[Face of a Fugitive]]'' (1959)
*''[[Good Day for a Hanging]]'' (1959)
*''[[Good Day for a Hanging]]'' (1959)
*''[[The 7th Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1958)
*''[[The 7th Voyage of Sinbad]]'' (1958)
*''[[Tarawa Beachhead]]'' (1958)
*''[[Tarawa Beachhead]]'' (1958)
* ''[[The Case Against Brooklyn]]'' (1958)
*''[[Hellcats of the Navy]]'' (1957)
*''[[Hellcats of the Navy]]'' (1957)
*''[[20 Million Miles to Earth]]'' (1957)
*''[[20 Million Miles to Earth]]'' (1957)
*''[[Earth vs. the Flying Saucers]]'' (1956)
*''[[It Came from Beneath the Sea]]'' (1955)
*''[[It Came from Beneath the Sea]]'' (1955)
*''[[The 49th Man]]'' (1953)
*''[[The 49th Man]]'' (1953)
{{div col end}}


==References==
==References==
Line 82: Line 89:


==Notes==
==Notes==
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swires|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part One|issue=150|date=January 1990|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-150/page/n56/mode/1up/search/schneer?q=charles+schneer+starlog|page=57-72}}
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swires|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part One|issue=150|date=January 1990|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-150|page=[https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-150/page/n56 57]–72}}
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swires|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part Two|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-151/page/n64/mode/1up/search/schneer?q=charles+schneer+starlog|date=February 1990|page=65-68,70}}
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swires|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part Two|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-151|date=February 1990|page=[https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-151/page/n64 65]–68,70}}
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swirds|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part Three|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-152/page/n64/mode/1up/search/charles+schneer+starlog?q=charles+schneer+starlog|date=March 1990|page=65-68,71}}
*{{cite magazine|magazine=Starlog|first=Steve|last=Swirds|title=Mentor to the Magicks Part Three|url=https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-152|date=March 1990|page=[https://archive.org/details/starlog_magazine-152/page/n64 65]–68,71}}


==External links==
==External links==
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[[Category:1920 births]]
[[Category:1920 births]]
[[Category:2009 deaths]]
[[Category:2009 deaths]]
[[Category:20th-century American businesspeople]]
[[Category:American expatriates in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:American film producers]]
[[Category:American film producers]]
[[Category:Columbia University alumni]]
[[Category:Columbia University alumni]]
[[Category:Film producers from Virginia]]
[[Category:Military personnel from Virginia]]
[[Category:People from Norfolk, Virginia]]
[[Category:People from Norfolk, Virginia]]
[[Category:United States Army personnel of World War II]]
[[Category:United States Army Signal Corps personnel]]

Latest revision as of 16:47, 14 February 2024

For the American film producer and screenwriter (1916–1963), see Charles Schnee.

Black and white photograph of a man at bust length.
Charles H. Schneer in 1974

Charles Hirsch Schneer (May 5, 1920 – January 21, 2009) was an American film producer, best known for working with Ray Harryhausen, the specialist known for his work in stop motion model animation.

Life and career

[edit]

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, he graduated from Columbia University in 1940. Serving in the U.S. Army's Signal Corps Photographic Unit during the War and moved to Hollywood following demobilization.[1]

Sam Katzman

[edit]

Schneer joined Columbia Pictures, where he wrote the script for the Robin Hood film The Prince of Thieves (1948) for Sam Katzman.[2] He later adapted Byron's The Corsair for Katzman but it was not made.[3]

Schneer was credited as associate producer on Katzman's The 49th Man (1953).[4]

Schneer worked as a producer on the TV series The Web (1954)

Ray Harryhausen

[edit]

Schneer was introduced to Harryhausen by a mutual friend from Schneer's period in the Army.[5]

Together the two men created It Came from Beneath the Sea (1955) (originally Monster from Beneath the Sea),[6] about a giant octopus that wreaks havoc on the Golden Gate Bridge. To save money, the octopus had only six tentacles, which Schneer is reported to have been correct in claiming no one would notice.[7] This film made use of stop-motion photography which the two men were to use to greater effect in later films.

"He was a typical producer", Harryhausen says, "although he didn’t smoke big black cigars."[8] Schneer would produce all Harryhausen's films except One Million Years B.C. (1967).

Harryhausen and Scheer next worked together on Earth vs. the Flying Saucers (1957) which Schneer produced.

Morningside Productions

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In 1956, it was announced Schneer was considering joining RKO but changed his mind and signed a new three-picture deal with Columbia for his Morningside Productions.[9]

Schneer made the romantic drama Hellcats of the Navy (1957) with Ronald Reagan and his wife (billed as Nancy Davis); it was the first time Schneer worked with director Nathan H. Juran. He followed it with 20 Million Miles to Earth (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran.

In March 1957 Schneer signed a new three pictures deal with Columbia.[10] He produced a noir, The Case Against Brooklyn (1958), and a war film, Tarawa Beachhead (1958), both directed by Paul Wendkos.[11] More popular than either was The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958) with Harryhausen, directed by Juran and starring Kerwin Mathews, who had been in Tarawa.

Schneer made two Westerns with Fred MacMurray, Good Day for a Hanging (1959) (directed by Juran) and Face of a Fugitive (1959) (directed by Wendkos).

In May 1959 it was announced Schneer would make nine films for Columbia, including Battle of the Coral Sea, I Aim at the Stars, Mysterious Island, Gulliver's Travels and Air Force Academy.[12] He started the new contract with Battle of the Coral Sea (1960), directed by Wendkos. Air Force Academy was never made.[13]

London

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In 1960, Schneer moved his base of operations to London, where he remained for 45 years. He produced a biopic of Wernher von Braun, I Aim at the Stars (1960), directed by J. Lee Thompson,[14] and the fantasy The 3 Worlds of Gulliver (1961), starring Kerwin Matthews.[15]

Mysterious Island (1961), directed by Cy Endfield was an adaptation of the Jules Verne novel, with Harryhausen effects. Gentleman to China with Lloyd Nolan was announced but never made.[16]

Schneer had one of his biggest successes with Jason and the Argonauts (1963), again with Harryhausen; the screenwriter was Beverley Cross who worked with Schneer on many future projects.

Schneer produced a medieval swashbuckler, Siege of the Saxons (1963) then an Imperial adventure, East of Sudan (1963), both directed by Juran. He was reunited with Harryhausen for First Men in the Moon (1964), also from Juran.

Schneer produced a "swinging sixties" comedy directed by Michael Winner, You Must Be Joking! (1965), and the film version of the stage musical Half a Sixpence (1967) starring Tommy Steele. Fifth Paw of the Lion was announced but not made.[17]

In Spain, he produced a Western, Land Raiders (1970), then returned to fantasy for The Valley of Gwangi (1969), with Harryhausen.The Executioner (1970), directed by Sam Wanamaker was a thriller.

Later Films

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Schneer made three more films with Harryhausen: The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973), directed by Gordon Hessler; Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (1977), directed by Wanamaker; and Clash of the Titans (1981), directed by Desmond Davis.[18]

Harryhausen later said the secret to his success with Schneer was "never agreeing... We were together for a long time. Charles always had a great sympathy for fantasy. We had many disagreements, which brings up that old saying, "if two people think exactly alike, one of them is unnecessary." So we battled out many things in the name of the film, and in the end we'd come to a compromise."[19]

Schneer died in Boca Raton, Florida, aged 88.

Filmography

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References

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  1. ^ Thurber, J. (January 28, 2009). "Charles schneer: 1920–2009". Chicago Tribune. ProQuest 420776641.
  2. ^ THOMAS F. BBADY (May 11, 1947). "HOLLYWOOD SURVEY: Sharp Drop in Production Noted -- Still Another Dumas Exploit -- Other Items". New York Times. p. X5.
  3. ^ THOMAS F BRADY (June 11, 1947). "BYRON'S 'CORSAIR' TO BE MADE FILM". New York Times. ProQuest 107920421.
  4. ^ Schallert, E. (December 6, 1952). "Betsy blair wins lead in 'via flaminia;' kelly soon heading homeward". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 166416020.
  5. ^ "Charles H Schneer". Family-announcements.co.uk. Retrieved September 10, 2016.
  6. ^ Schallert, E. (September 11, 1954). "Benagoss seeking cobb, ryan, O'brien for films; monster story on way". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 166672390.
  7. ^ Bill Edwards Obituary – Charles Schneer, The Guardian, October 29, 2009
  8. ^ "Ray Harryhausen Interview". Daily Telegraph.
  9. ^ Schallert, Edwin (March 31, 1956). "Drama: Naish Going Primitive Again in 'Yaqui Drums;' Science Film Scheduled". Los Angeles Times. p. 13.
  10. ^ THOMAS M. PRYOR Special to The (March 15, 1957). "FAULKNER NOVEL BOUGHT FOR FILM: Jerry Wald Will Produce 'The Long Hot Summer,' Based on 'The Hamlet'". New York Times. p. 21.
  11. ^ Schallert, E. (May 30, 1957). "Teen-agers' favorites in screen onslaught; noted dane in 'viking'". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 167102198.
  12. ^ Scott, J. L. (May 6, 1959). "Portrayals spark comedy thriller". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 167521508.
  13. ^ THOMAS M PRYOR (July 21, 1958). "PECK TO BE STAR IN KRAMER FILM". New York Times. ProQuest 114351461.
  14. ^ THOMAS M PRYOR (June 2, 1958). "LIFE OF VON BRAUN TO BE TOLD IN FILM". New York Times. ProQuest 114471680.
  15. ^ Scott, J. L. (October 6, 1958). "Schneer, muhl plan 'gulliver's travels'". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 167329758.
  16. ^ "Nolan may fly from 'formosa' to 'china'". Los Angeles Times. March 14, 1961. ProQuest 167810705.
  17. ^ Martin, B. (August 28, 1965). "MOVIE CALL SHEET". Los Angeles Times. ProQuest 155249257.
  18. ^ Mills, Bart. (September 16, 1979). "ILLUSIONS, FANTASIES AND RAY HARRYHAUSEN". Los Angeles Times. p. n30.
  19. ^ French, Lawrence (March 2008). "The Art of Ray Harryhausen: Interview Part 3 – "One Million Years, B.C."". Cinefantastique.
  20. ^ "Film on Von Braun's Life Has Premiere". Los Angeles Times. October 3, 1960. p. C8.

Notes

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