Kenneth Anger, the influential avant-garde filmmaker, and author whose work was groundbreaking in its exploration of gay themes and erotica, has died. He was 96.
Anger died of natural causes on May 11 in Yucca Valley, California, his artist liaison, Spencer Glesby, told The Associated Press on May 24.
Anger was born in Santa Monica, California, in 1927. He began making films as a teenager, and his early work was influenced by the Surrealist movement. Anger’s films are often erotic and occult in nature, and they have been praised for their visual style and their exploration of taboo subjects.
Anger’s most famous film is probably “Scorpio Rising” (1963), a visually stunning film that explores the dark side of American culture. Anger’s other films include “Inauguration of the Pleasure Dome” (1954), “Lucifer Rising” (1972), and “Invocation of My Demon Brother” (1969).
Anger was also a prolific author, and he wrote several books on occultism and cinema, including “Hollywood Babylon” (1959) and “The Book of Anger” (1965).
Anger’s work was often controversial, but it also gained a cult following. He was a major figure in the underground film movement, and his work continues to be influential.
Anger’s death was mourned by many in the film and art worlds. “Kenneth Anger was a true original,” said filmmaker John Waters. “His films were like nothing else, and he was a true visionary.”
“Kenneth Anger was a pioneer of underground cinema,” said artist David Hockney. “His work was groundbreaking and influential, and he will be missed.”
Anger’s work will continue to be celebrated for years to come. He was a true original, and his films are a testament to his creativity and vision.