Remembering John Russell Taylor: A Pioneer in Cultural Criticism
John Russell Taylor, a name synonymous with insightful criticism and a deep understanding of cinema, left our world on August 18, 2025, at the age of 90. Renowned for penning the only authorized biography of Alfred Hitchcock, Taylor was a towering figure in the realms of film and theater criticism.
Born on June 19, 1935, in Dover, England, Taylor was not just a critic; he was a storyteller who captured the essence of the artists he wrote about. Earning his degree from Jesus College at the University of Cambridge, he seamlessly blended his academic knowledge with an acute observational eye, allowing readers a glimpse into the inner workings of creative minds.
A Critical Eye on Cinema
One of Taylor's early projects, “Hitch: The Life and Times of Alfred Hitchcock” (1978), revolutionized perceptions of the famed director. Once seen merely as a master of suspense, Hitchcock's artistry was celebrated through Taylor's lens, showcasing his unique ability to mold complex characters against a backdrop of psychological depth.
“It is always disastrous to start your career with a masterpiece,” Taylor once remarked, underscoring the unpredictable journey of an artist.
But it wasn't just Hitchcock who benefited from Taylor's keen insights. His critiques spanned across theater, fashion, and visual arts. His assessment of Harold Pinter—whom he championed as a groundbreaking playwright—illustrates his forward-thinking approach. In a 2008 article in The New York Times, he described Pinter as “the greatest” of the new wave of playwrights, solidifying his legacy as a promoter of avant-garde talent.
Connecting with Icons
During his career, Taylor's direct interactions with stars made his writing even more enriching. For instance, as a correspondent for The Times of London in the 1970s, he enjoyed a close camaraderie with Hitchcock, often bonding over their shared fondness for English candy like Liquorice Allsorts. This personal connection allowed him to delve deeper into Hitchcock's psyche, transforming their encounters into insightful narratives.
Perhaps the most memorable anecdote he shared was the time Bette Davis, impressed by his review, called him to express her gratitude. As she humorously recounted, she was “thinking of forging down to the office to kiss” him—an incident that illustrates the power of his words in shaping public opinion.
The Scope of His Work
Taylor's literary repertoire is nothing short of impressive, with over 40 books to his name, including compelling biographies of luminaries like Ingrid Bergman, Elizabeth Taylor, and Orson Welles. Each biography wove together a narrative that illuminated not just the artists' public personas but also their intricate private lives.
His influential book “Anger and After” (1962) was groundbreaking in adopting the term “new wave” to describe the seismic shifts occurring in British theatre. This connection to cinematic and theatrical evolution placed Taylor at the forefront of artistic critique.
A Lasting Impact
While we reflect on Taylor's contributions, it is vital to acknowledge how his work transcended mere criticism. He contextualized creativity itself, a belief central to his legacy. As some of his peers have noted, Taylor's critiques resonated deeply, bridging gaps between artists and audiences and encouraging a deeper dialogue about cultural narratives.
David Sterritt, a noted Hitchcock scholar, remarked on the lasting impact of Taylor's biography: “It was authoritative, and it helped people take Hitchcock seriously.”
However, Taylor did not shy away from the complexities of the artists he portrayed. In the face of evolving narratives around Hitchcock, he stood firm in his defense of the director against controversial reappraisals, stating, “Lord knows, Hitch was no angel, but in this instance I resent what Tippi has done to blacken his character.” His willingness to engage in dialogue about contentious topics reveals the depth of his commitment to honesty in criticism.
Conclusion: The End of an Era
As the arts community grieves Taylor's passing, we remember a man who enriched our understanding of film and theater through his insights and warmth. His playful yet sharp critique will continue to inspire future generations of critics and writers. The void left by his absence is felt deeply, but his words and stories will resonate for years to come.
John Russell Taylor leaves behind a legacy marked not just by his insightful criticism but also by his genuine affection for the arts and the artists behind them. Let's continue to celebrate his work, ensuring that it remains a guiding light in the world of cultural commentary.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/06/books/john-russell-taylor-dead.html
