10 Surprising Facts About Steven Spielberg You Probably Didn't Know

 

Steven Spielberg. Photo by britannica.com

Steven Spielberg, one of the most influential filmmakers in the history of cinema, has a career spanning over five decades. Known for his exceptional storytelling, innovative directing, and a portfolio of iconic films, Spielberg's impact on the film industry is immeasurable. However, beyond his widely recognized achievements, there are numerous lesser-known facts about him that add depth to his already fascinating persona. Here are ten intriguing facts about Steven Spielberg that you might not know.

1. Rejected from Film School: 

Despite his undeniable talent, Spielberg was rejected from the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts twice. Determined to pursue his passion, he eventually enrolled at California State University, Long Beach. His persistence paid off when he landed an unpaid internship at Universal Studios, where he made his first short film, "Amblin'," which later caught the studio's attention and jumpstarted his career.

2. The Youngest Director to Sign a Long-Term Deal: 

Spielberg became the youngest director to sign a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio when he was just 20 years old. After impressing executives at Universal Studios with his short film "Amblin'," he was offered a seven-year contract, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.

3. Directorial Debut on Television: 

Before making his mark on the big screen, Spielberg directed several television episodes. His first professional job was directing the pilot episode of "Night Gallery," a horror anthology series created by Rod Serling. He also directed episodes of popular TV shows like "Columbo" and "Marcus Welby, M.D."

4. A Close Call with "Jaws": 

The production of "Jaws," Spielberg's breakthrough hit, was plagued with problems, including malfunctioning mechanical sharks and rough weather. At one point, Spielberg was so convinced the film would be a disaster that he considered leaving the project. Despite the setbacks, "Jaws" became a massive success and is credited with inventing the summer blockbuster.

5. Founding DreamWorks: 

In 1994, Spielberg co-founded DreamWorks SKG with Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen. DreamWorks quickly became a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, producing a wide range of successful films, including "Shrek," "Saving Private Ryan," and "American Beauty." The studio also expanded into television, video games, and theme parks.

6. His Love for Video Games: 

Spielberg is an avid video game enthusiast. He has been involved in the development of several video games, including "Medal of Honor," a popular World War II-themed game series. His passion for interactive storytelling has also led him to explore virtual reality projects.

7. Oscars Snubs and Wins: 

Despite his prolific career, Spielberg has faced his share of snubs from the Academy Awards. His first major snub came with "Jaws," which was nominated for Best Picture but did not earn him a Best Director nomination. However, he eventually won Best Director Oscars for "Schindler's List" and "Saving Private Ryan," cementing his legacy in Hollywood.

8. Personal Collection of Memorabilia: 

Spielberg is an avid collector of film memorabilia. His collection includes the iconic sled from "Citizen Kane," the original Rosebud. He also owns Orson Welles' Oscar for "Citizen Kane," which he purchased at an auction. Spielberg has donated many items from his collection to museums, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

9. An Active Philanthropist: 

Spielberg is deeply committed to philanthropy. He established the Righteous Persons Foundation, which supports Jewish causes, and the Shoah Foundation, which preserves testimonies of Holocaust survivors. Additionally, he has donated millions to various educational, cultural, and social causes, reflecting his dedication to giving back to the community.

10. Influence Beyond Directing: 

Spielberg's influence extends far beyond directing. He has served as a producer on numerous successful films, including the "Back to the Future" trilogy, "Men in Black," and "Transformers." His production company, Amblin Entertainment, has been behind some of the most beloved films and television series of the past few decades.

Steven Spielberg's life and career are filled with fascinating stories and achievements that go beyond his well-known filmography. From his early struggles to his enduring influence on the entertainment industry, Spielberg's journey is a testament to his creativity, resilience, and passion for storytelling. These lesser-known facts provide a deeper understanding of the man behind some of the most iconic films in history.