Aspen Film mourns the loss of innovative and influential director Bob Rafelson, who passed away peacefully Saturday evening, July 23.
Rafelson helped transform American independent cinema with his style and approach to filmmaking. He also launched the careers of some of the finest actors of our time, including Jack Nicholson.
Aspen Film was proud to present him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019 in honor of the organization’s 40th anniversary.
Bob truly exemplified Aspen Film’s ‘Independent by Nature’ motto. Keeping the Isis Theatre open in Aspen as a place to foster that spirit for this community, was also very important to Bob.
Bob, you and your work will never be forgotten – thank you for being such a friend to and supporter of Aspen Film and to this community. Your contributions are immeasurable.