Paul Morrissey American film director Date of Birth: 23.02.1938 Country: USA

Biography of Paul Morrissey

Paul Morrissey, an American film director, is best known for his active collaboration with Andy Warhol. He was born in New York City and attended Ampleforth College, a private Roman Catholic school, and Fordham University. After university, Paul served in the US Army and worked as a social worker to make a living. He began making films after his time in the army, starting with short experimental films.

Paul met Andy Warhol in 1965 when Warhol was already experimenting with filmmaking but lacked a director who could bring a fresh perspective to his films. Warhol soon realized that he had found the perfect director in Paul, who not only directed films but also managed almost all aspects of Warhol's studio's activities, except for the actual sale of artworks. It was Paul Morrissey who suggested that Warhol use his name to promote the rock band "Velvet Underground," which gained international recognition soon after.

Despite being known for his conservative views, often speaking out against what he deemed immoral or anti-Catholic, it is peculiar that Paul's closest friend was the mostly apolitical Andy Warhol. However, they did share a common heritage in their Catholic faith.

Paul's bold and avant-garde approach to filmmaking is often attributed to his association with Warhol, although Paul made it clear in his memoir, "Factory Days," that Warhol had little influence over him in that regard. According to Paul, Warhol did not even participate in the casting process for Morrissey's films; the director handled it all himself.

Unfortunately, Paul Morrissey was unable to completely step out of Warhol's shadow, even to this day. It can be said that from 1968, specifically from the film "Lonesome Cowboys," Warhol made no attempt to challenge Morrissey's authority, as he controlled everything on the set. Morrissey justified the trust placed in him and made brilliant films, excelling in both art-house and mainstream cinema.