Victor Fleming

Lore & Background

Fleming rose to cinematographer, working with Dwan and D. W. Schoedsack, and Lewis Milestone. He was known as a 'man's director' for his robust attitude and love of outdoor sports, but also proved effective with women actors. Cinematographer Archie Stout considered Fleming the most knowledgeable director regarding camera angles and lenses. Actor Van Johnson remembered him as a masterful director but a 'tough man' to work for. The film received seven Oscar nominations, winning two.

Reader's Guide

Fleming's technical knowledge of cinematography, praised by peers, contributed to the visual impact of his films.

Did You Know?

• Fleming served as chief photographer for President Woodrow Wilson in Versailles, France during World War I.
• Under Fleming's direction, Judy Garland received an Academy Juvenile Award for her performance in The Wizard of Oz.
• Fleming died of a heart attack en route to a hospital in Cottonwood, Arizona, shortly after completing Joan of Arc.