Ernest B. Schoedsack (1893-1979) was an American director and adventurer, renowned for his adventure films that blended documentary elements with fantasy.

His career began with actual expeditions, immortalizing exotic cultures and environments. In close collaboration with Merian C. Cooper, he directed epic documentaries such as *Grass: A Nation's Battle for Life* (1925) and *Chang: A Drama of the Wilderness* (1927), which were major successes.

Their partnership culminated in the masterpiece *King Kong* (1933). This iconic film, a pioneer in special effects (with Willis O'Brien), not only redefined adventure cinema but also the "monster movie" genre. Before *Kong*, they also made the celebrated thriller *The Most Dangerous Game* (1932).

Schoedsack's style was characterized by a palpable sense of urgency, the confrontation between man and the wilderness, and compelling storytelling, often drawing upon his authentic field experiences.