**John Carpenter** (born January 16, 1948) is an American director, screenwriter, and composer, a key figure in genre cinema. Known for redefining horror and thriller, his film *Halloween* (1978) is considered a cornerstone of the slasher genre.

Among his most influential works are also the tense *Assault on Precinct 13* (1976), the dystopian *Escape from New York* (1981), and the claustrophobic sci-fi-horror masterpiece *The Thing* (1982).

His distinctive style is characterized by minimalist and tense atmospheres, skillful use of space, wide shots, and electronic scores, often composed by himself. His films often explore themes of isolation, paranoia, and anti-heroism, leaving an indelible mark on genre cinema.