Russ Meyer (1922-2004) was an American director, screenwriter, and producer, a prominent figure in independent cinema and "sexploitation." His filmography is famous for its recurrent use of actresses with generous figures, audacious and often surreal plots, campy humor, and stylized violence.

Among his most iconic works are the cult film *Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!* (1965), featuring its fierce go-go dancers, and *Vixen!* (1968). He attempted a brief foray into Hollywood with *Beyond the Valley of the Dolls* (1970), co-written with Roger Ebert, while nonetheless maintaining his unmistakable style. Meyer created a unique cinematic universe, influencing generations of filmmakers and solidifying his status as a cult auteur.