John Baxter, a renowned Australian-born writer, journalist, and film-maker, took his first breath on December 14, 1939, in Randwick, New South Wales, Australia. Throughout the trajectory of his life, Baxter has traversed the globe, establishing residences in multiple countries, including Britain, the United States, and his native Sydney, prior to making Paris his permanent abode since 1989. In his adopted city of Paris, Baxter shares a life with his wife, the talented film-maker Marie-Dominique Montel, with whom he has been blessed with a beautiful daughter, Louise.
Baxter's writing career, a journey that has spanned multiple decades, commenced in the early 1960s with a focus on crafting science fiction tales for esteemed British publications such as New Worlds and Science Fantasy. His inaugural novel, aptly titled The Off-Worlders, was initially published as a book in the United States by the renowned publishing house, Ace.
Since then, Baxter has gone on to pen an extensive array of short stories and novels within the science fiction genre, showcasing his remarkable versatility and creativity. Furthermore, he has authored a book that delves into the fascinating realm of science fiction in the movies, offering readers a unique perspective on the intersection of science fiction and cinema.
In addition to his writing endeavors, Baxter has also demonstrated his expertise as an editor, curating collections of Australian science fiction that have contributed significantly to the genre. Throughout his illustrious career, Baxter has consistently pushed the boundaries of science fiction, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
Noteworthy beyond his significant contributions to the realm of science fiction, Baxter has penned a diverse range of literary masterpieces, including comprehensive biographies of esteemed film luminaries.
Some of these notable biographies showcase the lives and careers of iconic figures such as Federico Fellini, Luis Buñuel, Steven Spielberg, Stanley Kubrick, Woody Allen, George Lucas, and Robert De Niro.
In addition to his work in biography, Baxter has also ventured into the realm of documentary writing, with a particular focus on the life and artistic endeavors of renowned painter Fernando Botero.
Furthermore, Baxter has demonstrated his versatility as a creative force by co-producing, writing, and presenting three television series for the Australian Broadcasting Commission. These series, namely Filmstruck, First Take, and The Cutting Room, have undoubtedly showcased his expertise in the world of filmmaking.
In another capacity, Baxter has also served as co-editor of the esteemed ABC book program Books And Writing, a testament to his dedication to the world of literature and his ability to navigate the intersection of art and media.
