Robert Aldrich embarked on a cinematic journey in 1941, securing a position as a production clerk at RKO Radio Pictures, marking the beginning of his ascension through the ranks. He swiftly transitioned into a script clerk role, subsequently ascending to the positions of assistant director, production manager, and associate producer. As the 1950s unfolded, Aldrich began to make his mark in television, penning and directing episodes for various series. His directorial debut in feature films arrived in 1953 with the release of Big Leaguer.
Following this milestone, Aldrich went on to establish his own production company, which enabled him to exercise greater creative control over his projects. He frequently collaborated on the writing of his films, a testament to his dedication to crafting engaging narratives. Among his most notable and enduring works are the critically acclaimed Kiss Me Deadly, released in 1955, the psychological thriller What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, which premiered in 1962, and the World War II epic The Dirty Dozen, which became a massive commercial success in 1967.