Alan Bradford Curtiss

Last Updated: October 27, 2023

Alan Bradford Curtiss, a prominent figure in Hollywood known for his invaluable contributions as an assistant director and producer. With a career spanning several decades, Curtiss has been a driving force behind numerous iconic films. He embarked on his journey in the entertainment industry in 1978 as a location manager and eventually rose to prominence within the Directors Guild of America.

Career Highlights

Directorial Excellence

Alan Bradford Curtiss has been a vital part of multiple directorial teams nominated for the prestigious Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing – Feature Film. His notable contributions include collaborations on critically acclaimed films such as The Truman Show (1998), The Green Mile (1999), and Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003). These nominations underscore his role in bringing these cinematic masterpieces to life.

Executive Producer

Curtiss also ventured into the role of an executive producer, showcasing his diverse talents in film production. Notably, he served as the executive producer of Master and Commander, a film that left a lasting impact on audiences. Furthermore, he played a pivotal role alongside Oscar winner Barrie M. Osborne in producing the significant Hispanic film Gloria (2014). This biopic delved into the life of the controversial Mexican pop star Gloria Trevi, highlighting Curtiss’s versatility in film production.

Mentorship and Recognition

The Directors Guild of America has recognized Alan Curtiss for his enduring mentorship of assistant directors (ADs), unit production managers (UPMs), and production assistants (PAs). His commitment to nurturing talent within the industry has had a profound influence on the careers of many. In a 2004 forum dedicated to directorial teams, Curtiss emphasized the importance of experience and knowledge transfer in the industry. His dedication has seen individuals he mentored ascend the ranks, taking on roles as 1st ADs and production managers, thus continuing the cycle of growth and expertise.

Filmography: A Tapestry of Success

Alan Bradford Curtiss’s filmography reads like a journey through cinematic history. He has contributed to an extensive list of films, each with its own unique charm and impact. Some of the notable entries in his filmography include:

• Brian Banks (2018)
• Gloria (2014)
• World War Z (2013)
• Something Borrowed (2011)
• Love Ranch (2010)
• The Way Back (2010)
• First Sunday (2008)
• The Happening (2008)
• The Prestige (2006)
• Jarhead (2005)
• Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
• Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
• Peter Pan (2003)
• Dragonfly (2002)
• Cast Away (2000)
• The Perfect Storm (2000)
• The Green Mile (1999)
• Patch Adams (1998)
• The Truman Show (1998)
• The Devil’s Own (1997)
• Michael (1996)
• Get Shorty (1995)
• Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls (1995)
• Waterworld (1995)
• Clear and Present Danger (1994)
• Intersection (1994)
• Fearless (1993)
• Consenting Adults (1992)
• For Richer, for Poorer (1992)
• For the Boys (1991)
• Green Card (1990)
• Taking Care of Business (1990)
• Dead Poets Society (1989)
• Harlem Nights (1989)
• My Stepmother Is An Alien (1988)
• The Presidio (1988)
• Vibes (1988)
• A Tiger’s Tale (1987)
• Wanted: Dead or Alive (1987)
• Nothing in Common (1986)
• Clue (1985)
• Jagged Edge (1985)
• The Man With One Red Shoe (1985)
• 2010 (1984)
• Cloak & Dagger (1984)
• The Lonely Guy (1984)
• Max Dugan Returns (1983)
• Romantic Comedy (1983)
• I Ought to Be in Pictures (1982)
• Mommie Dearest (1981)
• Coast to Coast (1980)
• Heaven’s Gate (1980)
• Grease (1978)
• Moment by Moment (1978)

Alan Bradford Curtiss’s remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of film and entertainment, solidifying his status as a revered figure in Hollywood. His dedication to nurturing talent and his impressive body of work continue to inspire and influence the industry to this day.