A Legacy of Independent Filmmaking and Friendship
Henry Jaglom, a pioneering figure in independent cinema, has passed away at the age of 87. His daughter, Sabrina Jaglom, shared the news with The Hollywood Reporter, stating that he died peacefully at home in Santa Monica. She described him as “the most loving, fun, entertaining, and unique father” and expressed how much he supported those around him. His legacy extends far beyond his work behind the camera, encompassing a rich network of friendships and collaborations that shaped the film industry.
Jaglom’s journey to Hollywood began through the influence of director Peter Bogdanovich, who initially invited him to participate in the 1968 film Targets. However, Bogdanovich ultimately took the role himself, leading Jaglom to forge his own path in Los Angeles. While there, he connected with the rising stars of the New Hollywood movement, including Jack Nicholson, whom he helped edit the iconic film Easy Rider. This connection marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with some of the era’s most influential actors and filmmakers.
Despite his ties to the New Hollywood scene, Jaglom remained a writer-director who often avoided the traditional studio system. He worked with many of the era’s leading talents, including Dennis Hopper, Karen Black, and Nicholson, creating films that reflected the spirit of independent storytelling. His work was characterized by its authenticity and focus on character-driven narratives, which set him apart from mainstream Hollywood productions.
Beyond his filmmaking, Jaglom was known for his vibrant social life in Los Angeles. One of his most notable relationships was with the legendary Orson Welles. For the last two years of Welles’s life, Jaglom had a regular lunch date with the filmmaker. These conversations were recorded and later compiled into Peter Biskind’s book My Lunches With Orson. The book offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of cinema’s greatest visionaries, featuring candid discussions about the industry and its figures.
A well-known anecdote from these lunches involves Welles criticizing Woody Allen, a sentiment that has resurfaced repeatedly on social media whenever Allen is mentioned. This exchange highlights the depth of their conversations and the impact they had on both men’s perspectives.
In addition to their lunches, Jaglom and Welles collaborated on several projects. Welles’s final acting performance was in Jaglom’s 1987 film Someone to Love. Jaglom also appeared in Welles’s final movie, The Other Side of the Wind, which was released posthumously in 2018 after decades of delays. The film, a complex and experimental piece, stands as a testament to both directors’ artistic visions.
Jaglom’s career spanned several decades, during which he left an indelible mark on independent cinema. His work continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, and his personal relationships—particularly with Welles—have become part of film history. As his daughter noted, Jaglom was not only a talented filmmaker but also a devoted and supportive individual whose presence will be deeply missed.
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