James Foley, celebrated for his direction in the film Glengarry Glen Ross and the Fifty Shades of Grey sequels, has died at the age of 71.

Foley's death, which saddened the global film community, followed a yearlong battle with brain cancer, his representative confirmed, as Fox Carolina reports.

The well-known director was born on Dec. 28, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York. He embarked on his filmmaking journey as a graduate student at the University of Southern California, where he was notably influenced by director Hal Ashby during a film school party. This encounter significantly shaped Foley's approach to filmmaking.

Foley's early career saw the release of his first feature film, Reckless, in 1984. A romantic drama that marked the beginning of his diverse directorial portfolio.

Over the years, James Foley contributed to a wide range of cinematic works, including At Close Range and Who’s That Girl.

Exploring Foley's diverse filmography

Foley’s reputation was further solidified with his adaptation of David Mamet's play Glengarry Glen Ross in 1992.

The film became a cult favorite, largely due to Alec Baldwin's compelling monologue, and it is often regarded as a significant exploration of modern masculinity. This sentiment was echoed by critic Tim Grierson, who remarked on the film's unique place within cinema.

Beyond the silver screen, Foley also ventured into music videos and television, directing several Madonna music videos and episodes of the critically acclaimed series House of Cards. His versatility knew few bounds, engaging audiences across multiple platforms and formats.

In later years, after a decade away from the film industry, Foley returned to direct two sequels of the Fifty Shades of Grey series. This comeback highlighted his adaptable nature and consistent relevance in the evolving film landscape.

Lasting impact on cinema, culture recalled

Foley's approach to filmmaking was characterized by his willingness to traverse different genres and themes. In an industry often criticized for typecasting, Foley once shared, “I’ve always just followed my nose, for better or worse, sometimes for worse.” This philosophy allowed him to maintain a freshness in his works, always engaging with new challenges.

Despite his enjoyment in directing actors, Foley found certain aspects of filmmaking, like stunts and action sequences, less appealing.

He candidly expressed his disinterest in these areas, stating that such scenes "really bore me," emphasizing his passion for character-driven storytelling.

Foley adapted other significant works during his career, directing the film adaptation of John Grisham’s The Chamber and collaborating with Reese Witherspoon in Fear.

Each project showcased his ability to handle complex narratives and character dynamics, further proving his directorial versatility.

Personal side of public figure

As the news of his passing spreads, the film community and audiences around the world remember Foley not just for his films but for the impact he had on the industry.

Taylor Lomax, Foley's representative, confirmed his passing earlier this week, highlighting the director's courageous battle with brain cancer.

James Foley leaves behind a legacy through his siblings -- his brother Kevin, and sisters Eileen and Jo Ann. His personal life, though kept private, was filled with the love and support of his family, who stood by him throughout his illustrious career and during his health struggles.

The film world has indeed lost a visionary director and a cherished creator. James Foley's diverse body of work continues to inspire filmmakers and artists, ensuring that his legacy will endure in the annals of film history.