Michael Cimino (1939-2016) was an American film director, screenwriter, and producer, known for his ambitious vision and epic approach.

He rose to prominence with **"Thunderbolt and Lightfoot"** (1974), a road movie starring Clint Eastwood. He reached his peak with **"The Deer Hunter"** (1978), a masterpiece about the Vietnam War and its psychological impact, which won 5 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

His career suffered a devastating setback with **"Heaven's Gate"** (1980). This epic Western, due to exorbitant costs and poor commercial success, contributed to the bankruptcy of United Artists and marked the end of "New Hollywood."

His style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, sweeping shots, and an often bleak and grandiose portrayal of the American dream and its disillusionments. Despite subsequent works like "Year of the Dragon" (1985), he never regained the same stature.