June 22

Jacqueline Audry broke barriers in a male-dominated industry, directing her first feature in 1946. Born in 1908, she skillfully adapted literary works and feminist themes for the screen. Her films, such as Olivia (1951) and Les Malheurs de Sophie (1946), explored complex female characters and social issues. Audry wrote or co-wrote many of her scripts, ensuring her distinctive voice shone through. Over her three-decade career, she challenged conventions and inspired future generations of women filmmakers in France and beyond.

Joseph Losey began his career in theatre before transitioning to Hollywood filmmaking. Born in 1909, he earned acclaim for films like The Servant (1963) and Modesty Blaise (1966). After being blacklisted during the McCarthy era, Losey relocated to Europe, where he crafted intimate psychological dramas. His collaborations with writers such as Harold Pinter produced elegantly unsettling works. Losey's influence extended over several decades, and his films are celebrated for their nuanced performances and innovative direction.

Gérard Pelletier began his career as a reporter and editor, co-founding influential publications that gave voice to Quebec's cultural awakening. He entered federal politics in the 1960s, serving as Ambassador to France and later as a cabinet minister under Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Pelletier played a key role in modernizing Canadian communications and promoting national unity. An accomplished author, he wrote extensively on politics and society. His work bridged journalism and governance, leaving a lasting imprint on Canadian public life.

Born in Opsund, Denmark, he studied architecture at the Royal Danish Academy. In 1959, he co-founded the Henning Larsen Architects firm, which became internationally acclaimed. His design for the Copenhagen Opera House opened in 2005 and is celebrated for its elegance. He created landmark buildings across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. He received numerous honors, including the Praemium Imperiale and several RIBA awards. His approach blended modernism with a deep respect for context and human scale. His work continues to influence architects around the world.

Rama Narayanan was an influential figure in Tamil cinema. He served as director and producer on numerous films over several decades. He was particularly known for his work in devotional and mythological genres. He collaborated with many prominent actors and technicians in the industry. His production company contributed to the success of Tamil commercial cinema. His career spanned from the late 1970s until the early 2010s. He left a lasting impact on family-oriented and devotional storytelling in film.