Stanley Sheff's maiden voyage into the realm of cinematic storytelling commenced with the release of his inaugural feature film, Sinister Flesh, a black-and-white horror spoof that garnered widespread critical acclaim among aficionados of the horror and science fiction genres. This early foray into the world of filmmaking not only showcased Sheff's nascent talent but also marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with his writing partner, the accomplished Bob Greenberg. Together, they crafted their first screenplay, Revenge Of The Saucermen, a project that ultimately secured a lucrative deal with the esteemed American-International Pictures.
Sheff's subsequent foray into network television was marked by a diverse range of projects, showcasing his versatility as a director and editor. One notable endeavor was the NBC-TV special "TV - The Fabulous Fifties", which boasted an impressive cast list featuring some of the most iconic figures of the era. This esteemed group included the incomparable Lucille Ball, the legendary Red Skelton, the talented Dinah Shore, the renowned Mary Martin, the acclaimed Michael Landon, and the versatile David Janssen.
In addition to "TV - The Fabulous Fifties", Sheff also directed and edited "Hollywood Out-Takes" (1978),a special starring the incomparable George Burns. His work extended to other notable projects, including "Amos 'n' Andy: Anatomy of a Controversy" (1983),which tackled the complexities of the classic radio and television series.
Furthermore, Sheff was responsible for helming a Chevy Chase "On Location" comedy special for HBO, as well as a one-hour interview with the enigmatic Vincent Price, titled "Vincent Price: The Sinister Image" (1987). This in-depth conversation aired on the A&E Network as part of the Biography (1987) series, offering audiences a unique glimpse into the life and career of the legendary actor.
Sheff has engaged in a prolonged and diverse career, with a significant portion of his professional endeavors focused on the realm of television, specifically with Antenne 2 French Television, where he has exercised his skills as a director and editor, crafting a multitude of documentaries that have showcased his exceptional creative abilities.
Throughout his illustrious career in the television and film industries, Sheff has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim, culminating in a prestigious Emmy Award for his outstanding editing work, which was particularly notable for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship in the documentary "Motown Returns to the Apollo" (1985).
Sheff's professional journey spanned a multitude of creative endeavors, including the establishment of a video post-production company in the renowned Hollywood, where he had the privilege of collaborating with the illustrious Orson Welles on his final completed work, "The Orson Welles Show" (1979). This project boasted a star-studded cast, featuring none other than Burt Reynolds, Angie Dickinson, and The Muppets. Welles' influence extended beyond the realm of their collaboration, as he inspired the title for Sheff's screenplay, "Lobster Man from Mars" (1989),a science-fiction comedy that Sheff himself directed. The film boasted an impressive cast, starring the legendary Tony Curtis, the talented Billy Barty, and the esteemed Patrick Macnee. The film premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, marking a significant milestone in Sheff's illustrious career.
Notably, in addition to his extensive and esteemed body of work in the mediums of motion pictures and television, Sheff has also explored the realm of radio, where he has demonstrated his versatility and talent by taking on multiple roles, including that of producer, director, and performer.
Sheff has also leveraged his creative prowess to excel in the realm of live theater, taking on multifaceted roles as director and performer in a diverse array of productions.
Notably, he was a key member of the comedy improvisational group The Plush Life Players, which brought to life the sitcom serial soap opera "The Plush Life".
In addition, Sheff donned the persona of Professor Klystron in the musical extravaganza "Queen Of Outer Space: The Musical".
Furthermore, his directorial credits include the spectacular "Dancing Cavalcade - Swing of the 1920s and 1930s", which showcased the timeless charm of a bygone era.
Sheff also lent his expertise to the production "Vaudeville Comes Home", a nostalgic tribute to the vaudeville era.
Moreover, his creative vision brought forth the "Black Pirate Musical Spectacular", a swashbuckling adventure that thrilled audiences.
Lastly, he collaborated with the Los Angeles Conservancy to direct "Broadway Confidential", a production that honored the rich history of the American theater.
These productions, performed to sold-out crowds of over two thousand, took place at the historic Orpheum Theater in downtown Los Angeles, a testament to Sheff's ability to captivate and entertain diverse audiences.
Sheff, a talented and accomplished individual, is presently residing in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where she is actively engaged in a multifaceted career as a writer, producer, and director of feature motion pictures.
