Documentary Director Chris Marker Dies Soon After Turning 91

Chris Marker has died at the age of 91.

The French documentary director passed away today (July 30th 2012) having only celebrated his 91st birthday yesterday. He was best known for directing 'Sans Soleil'; a documentary reflecting the impact memory recollection has on people's and the world's history. It was hailed by many as one of the most important films of all time and won him several accolades including an 'OCIC Award - Honourable Mention' at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1983 and a Sutherland Trophy at the British Film Institute Awards.

Among his other efforts are the well-received 1977 political film 'A Grin Without A Cat' and sci-fi thriller 'Twelve Monkeys' starring Bruce Willis which Marker co-wrote. Little is known about this elusive Frenchman's personal life; he has often refused photographs and interviews. He was once quoted as saying, 'My films are enough for [the audience]'.

Marker and his extensive work most certainly will not be forgotten in the world of film. In his words taken from the 1953 French documentary 'Les Statues Meurent Aussi' co-directed by his friend Alain Renais, 'When men die, they enter history. When statues die, they enter art. These deaths are what we call culture.'