Acclaimed director James Foley, recognized prominently for his work on the film “Glengarry Glen Ross,” has passed away at the age of 71. His representative, Taylor Lomax, confirmed on Friday that Foley succumbed to a yearlong struggle with brain cancer earlier in the week.
Throughout his expansive career, Foley directed a variety of works, including music videos for Madonna, 12 episodes of the critically acclaimed series “House of Cards,” and both sequels in the “Fifty Shades of Grey” film series. However, it was his 1992 cinematic adaptation of David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play that truly stood out.
While “Glengarry Glen Ross” did not achieve immediate commercial success, it slowly ingrained itself into popular culture, becoming a well-regarded cult classic. The film is especially noted for Alec Baldwin’s memorable “always be closing” monologue, crafted specifically for the movie.
Critic Tim Grierson reflected on the film, noting two decades after its release that it remains “one of the quintessential modern movies about masculinity.” Interestingly, he pointed out that while Mamet had many commendable film adaptations of his work, this particular one — which he did not direct — stood out as perhaps the finest.
Born on December 28, 1953, in Brooklyn, Foley pursued his passion for film at the graduate level at the University of Southern California. Legend has it that filmmaker Hal Ashby stumbled upon one of Foley’s student films at a gathering, leading to a mentor-mentee relationship. This connection with Ashby was instrumental in Foley landing his first major project, the 1984 romantic drama “Reckless.”
Further establishing his versatility, Foley explored various genres, including the Sean Penn-led crime drama “At Close Range,” the comedic escapades of “Who’s That Girl” with Madonna and Griffin Dunne, and the neo-noir thriller “After Dark, My Sweet” starring Jason Patric. Roger Ebert recognized “After Dark, My Sweet” as one of the “purest and most uncompromising modern film noir” films, despite its lack of lasting attention.
In addition to feature films, Foley directed several hit music videos for Madonna and even an episode of “Twin Peaks.” His adaptation of John Grisham’s work led to a collaboration with Gene Hackman in “The Chamber.” He also ventured into thrillers like “Fear,” featuring Reese Witherspoon and Mark Wahlberg, and “Perfect Stranger,” starring Halle Berry and Bruce Willis, though the latter faced mixed reviews.
Foley took a decade-long cinematic hiatus before returning to direct the “Fifty Shades of Grey” sequels, “Fifty Shades Darker” and “Fifty Shades Freed.”
Commenting on his work for these films, Foley admitted that scenes devoid of actor involvement, such as extensive car chases, were less engaging for him. “For me, what’s most challenging is stuff that doesn’t involve the actors,” he expressed, noting the lack of energy those scenes provided in contrast to working directly with performers.
Foley consciously avoided being typecast throughout his career, a deliberate choice he embraced. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in 2017, he reflected on his eclectic path, highlighting the benefits of not being constrained by a single style or genre.
James Foley’s legacy is carried on by his family, including his brother Kevin, and sisters Eileen and Jo Ann.