Paul Richards' ascendance to fame occurred during the pivotal 1960s advertising revolution, solidifying his reputation as a world-renowned photographer and television commercial director. His impressive client roster boasted esteemed brands such as Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, Polaroid, General Motors, Hertz, and Pepsi, among others. Richards' celebrated work garnered every major industry award, including numerous Clio Awards, Gold Medal Awards, the prestigious Cannes Lion for the best worldwide commercial, and dozens of New York Art Directors Awards.
Notably, Pauline Kael, a prominent film critic for The New Yorker, described Richards as "a photographer who became a whiz at TV commercials [before directing movies]". Richards' illustrious film career commenced with his debut feature, Culpepper Cattle Company, released by 20th Century-Fox, which evolved into a cult classic and earned him the esteemed Screenwriter's Annual Story Award presented by the Writer's Guild of America.
He continued to make a significant impact in the film industry by directing the well-received Rafferty and the Gold Dust Twins for Warner Brothers and Farewell, My Lovely for Embassy Pictures, which garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and received widespread acclaim. Richards' filmography also includes March of the Die for Colombia Pictures, Death Valley for Universal, Man, Woman and Child for Paramount Pictures, and Heat.
Additionally, Richards optioned, developed, and produced the critically acclaimed Tootsie, earning him an Academy Award nomination and winning him the coveted Golden Globe Award for Best Picture.
