Gerry Day, American journalist and screenwriter (b. 1922)

Gerry Day: A Distinguished American Screenwriter and Hollywood Journalist

Gerry Day, born on January 27, 1922, and passing on February 13, 2013, at the age of 91, was a prominent American screenwriter whose career significantly impacted both animated and live-action cinema. Her creative contributions spanned several decades, showcasing her versatility and narrative skill within the highly competitive film industry.

A Noteworthy Career in Screenwriting

Day carved out a remarkable niche in Hollywood, particularly recognized for her work on beloved family films and adventure stories. Her screenwriting credits include the acclaimed 1979 adaptation of "The Black Stallion," a cinematic triumph praised for its stunning visuals and emotional depth, which earned her critical recognition. She also penned the screenplay for its 1983 sequel, "The Black Stallion Returns," further solidifying her connection to the cherished literary series by Walter Farley. Beyond these iconic films, Day contributed to the English-language adaptation of the popular Japanese film "The Adventures of Milo and Otis" (1989), demonstrating her ability to craft engaging narratives for international audiences. Her filmography also includes live-action features such as the adventure film "Island of the Lost" (1967) and contributions to the Burt Lancaster thriller "Scorpio" (1973), though some of her early work often went uncredited, a common practice in Old Hollywood.

Early Career: Reporting from the Heart of Hollywood

Before achieving recognition as a screenwriter, Gerry Day honed her storytelling abilities as a newspaper reporter for the "Hollywood Citizen News" in the mid-1940s. This daily newspaper, a significant publication in Los Angeles from 1904 to 1970, provided essential coverage of local news, community events, and the burgeoning film industry. Her tenure as a journalist placed her at the very epicenter of Hollywood's Golden Age, offering a unique perspective on the stars, studios, and daily machinations of the world's entertainment capital. This invaluable experience undoubtedly informed her later screenwriting, providing an authentic understanding of the industry and its personalities.

The Enduring Legacy of Gerry Day

Gerry Day's legacy is marked by her ability to craft compelling narratives that resonated with audiences across generations. From her foundational role as a journalist observing the real-life drama of Hollywood to her celebrated career shaping cinematic stories, her contributions helped to define key moments in American filmmaking, particularly in the realm of family entertainment and adventure. Her work on "The Black Stallion," in particular, remains a testament to her talent for bringing beloved stories to vivid life on screen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gerry Day

What were Gerry Day's most famous screenwriting credits?

Gerry Day is most widely recognized for writing the screenplays for "The Black Stallion" (1979) and its sequel "The Black Stallion Returns" (1983). She also worked on the English adaptation of "The Adventures of Milo and Otis" (1989).

What newspaper did Gerry Day work for?

Gerry Day worked as a newspaper reporter for the "Hollywood Citizen News" during the mid-1940s.

When did Gerry Day live?

Gerry Day was born on January 27, 1922, and passed away on February 13, 2013.

What was the "Hollywood Citizen News"?

The "Hollywood Citizen News" was a prominent daily newspaper in Hollywood, California, that operated from 1904 to 1970, covering local news, community affairs, and the film industry.