David Newman, American director and screenwriter (d. 2003)

David Newman (February 4, 1937 – June 27, 2003) was a highly influential American screenwriter whose prolific career spanned several decades, from the late 1960s through the early 1980s, marking a significant period in Hollywood cinema. Recognized for his sharp dialogue, innovative storytelling, and contributions to a diverse range of genres, Newman left an indelible mark on film history through his memorable screenplays.

A Defining Partnership: David Newman and Robert Benton

One of the most notable aspects of David Newman's professional life was his extensive and fruitful collaboration with fellow writer and director Robert Benton. This creative partnership, which began in the mid-1960s and continued through the early 1980s, yielded some of the era's most iconic and commercially successful films. Their combined talents brought a fresh perspective to screenwriting, often blending sharp wit with dramatic depth and a keen eye for character.

Their groundbreaking work on the 1967 crime drama Bonnie and Clyde stands as a landmark achievement. This film, directed by Arthur Penn, is widely credited with helping to usher in the "New Hollywood" era, breaking cinematic conventions with its unflinching portrayal of violence, complex characters, and ambiguous morality. The screenplay, co-written by Newman and Benton, earned them an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, cementing their reputation as innovative storytellers who challenged traditional narrative structures.

The duo's versatility was further demonstrated through a variety of projects that showcased their mastery across different genres:

• There Was a Crooked Man... (1970): A Western comedy-drama starring Kirk Douglas and Henry Fonda, blending humor with more serious themes.
• What's Up, Doc? (1972): A highly acclaimed screwball comedy featuring Barbra Streisand and Ryan O'Neal, lauded for its rapid-fire dialogue, intricate farcical plot, and precise comedic timing, reminiscent of classic Hollywood comedies.
• Bad Company (1972): A Western set during the American Civil War, co-written with Benton who also directed, exploring themes of youth and survival.
• The Late Show (1977): A critically praised mystery film directed by Robert Benton, starring Art Carney and Lily Tomlin, showcasing their ability to craft compelling narratives within the neo-noir genre.

Beyond Benton: Collaborations with Leslie Newman and Later Works

David Newman's personal life was also intertwined with his professional one through his marriage to fellow writer Leslie Newman. Their creative synergy extended beyond their personal relationship, leading to several notable collaborations that enriched the cinematic landscape.

Most famously, David and Leslie Newman co-wrote the screenplays for the blockbuster superhero films Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980). Building upon an earlier draft that had involved Robert Benton, the Newmans were instrumental in shaping the definitive cinematic portrayal of the Man of Steel for a generation. Their scripts captured the essence of the iconic DC Comics character while infusing the narratives with humor, heart, and epic scope, contributing significantly to the films' monumental success and enduring legacy in the superhero genre.

The couple also collaborated on other projects, including the 1986 film Moonwalkers (also known as *The Adventures of David Newman*). David Newman also penned other screenplays independently or with different collaborators, such as the 1982 thriller Still of the Night, a psychological suspense film directed by Robert Benton.

David Newman's prolific career came to an end with his passing on June 27, 2003, at the age of 66, due to a stroke. He was survived by Leslie Newman and their two children. His legacy endures through the many films he helped bring to life, which continue to entertain and influence filmmakers and audiences worldwide, cementing his place as a key figure in American screenwriting.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Newman's Work

What are David Newman's most famous screenplays?

David Newman is most widely celebrated for co-writing the screenplay for the iconic 1967 film Bonnie and Clyde with Robert Benton. He also co-wrote the highly successful Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980) with his wife, Leslie Newman, and the classic screwball comedy What's Up, Doc? (1972) with Robert Benton.

Who did David Newman frequently collaborate with?

David Newman had a significant and long-standing creative partnership with Robert Benton, with whom he wrote numerous films from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. Later in his career, he frequently collaborated with his wife, Leslie Newman, on notable projects like the Superman films.

Did David Newman win any awards for his screenwriting?

While he did not win an Academy Award, David Newman, along with Robert Benton, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay for their groundbreaking work on Bonnie and Clyde, a film recognized for its profound impact on cinema and storytelling.