Menahem Golan: 1929-2014

Menahem Golan, an Israeli director and prolific producer of B-movies since the 1960’s died at age 85 on August 8th during a family trip to Tel Aviv.  Golan was probably best known for the Delta Force and Death Wish sequels, but was also active in producing comic-book-style films like Masters of the Universe, Superman IV: the Quest for Peace, and Captain America, (1980).  He also tried, unsuccessfully, to bring Spider Man to the theaters.

Born Menahem Globus, he served as a pilot and bombardier in the Israeli war for independence, and in 1948 changed his surname to Golan when the state of Israel was established. Starting his directing and film career as an apprentice at Habima Theater in Tel Aviv, he studied theater direction at the Old Vic School and the London Academy of Music and dramatic Art.  He also studied filmmaking at New York University, gaining experience as a filmmaker working as an assistant to Roger Corman, first as a production assistant on The Young Racers.

Together with his cousin, Yoram Globus, he formed Noah Films, then went on to purchase The Cannon Group, which was taken over by Pathe Communications. And in 1993 became the head of 21st Century Film corporation, which closed its doors in 1996.

Over the course of his career, Golan worked with many well-known actors including Sean Connery, Sylvester Stallone, Chuck Norris, Jean-Claude Van Damme and Charles Bronson. He produced over 200 films and directed over forty.

The family made the announcement, but no cause has been given. According to multiple Israeli news outlets, Golan lost consciousness while strolling outside his house in the city of Jaffa with family members Friday evening. Ambulances were called to the scene, and paramedics pronounced him dead following attempts to resuscitate him, .