Rudy Behlmer was born and raised in San Francisco, California, where he nurtured a profound fascination with the history and evolution of motion pictures from a young age. As a child, he began creating his own miniature dramas, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion that would eventually become his career.
After serving two years in the Naval Air Corps, Behlmer pursued his academic interests in Theatre Arts at Los Angeles City College and Pasadena Playhouse College. He then began his professional journey at KLAC-TV (now KCOP-TV) in Hollywood, initially working as a stage manager before rising to the position of staff director just two years later.
Behlmer's subsequent departure from KLAC-TV marked the beginning of his tenure as a director on network television shows. This experience ultimately led him to spend twenty-one years as a producer and vice-president for Leo Burnett U.S.A.
Following the production of "Movies' Golden Age" (1961),a syndicated TV special that showcased his versatility as a producer, director, and editor, Behlmer began to channel his creative energies into researching and writing articles on various aspects of film history. This project, which centered around the life and career of producer David O. Selznick, ultimately led to the publication of his book "Memo from David O. Selznick" (1972). This critically acclaimed work was followed by nine more books, as well as numerous magazine articles and booklets accompanying film music recordings.
Behlmer's contributions to the world of film history extended far beyond his written works. He has also contributed to a wide variety of documentaries, videos, DVDs, and laser discs celebrating Hollywood's Golden Age. For many years, he lectured weekly on film subjects at Cal State University, Northridge, and Art Center College of Design, Pasadena.
As a respected member of the film community, Behlmer has been a longtime member of the Directors Guild of America, where he has guest-lectured on several occasions. He has also shared his expertise with students at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the University of Southern California, and other esteemed institutions.
