Did you know Joseph L. Mankiewicz also called “Mank” was more than a filmmaker — he was a cinematic genius whose sharp wit and masterful storytelling shaped Hollywood’s Golden Age?

While he is remembered for classics such as “All About Eve” (1950) and “A Letter to Three Wives” (1949), away from the studio lights and industry politics, Mankiewicz found respite in La Jolla.

HIS LA JOLLA RETREAT

Mankiewicz, born in 1909, was said to be one of the most influential filmmakers of his time. He won four Academy Awards, two each for directing and writing in consecutive years, an achievement that cements his place in cinematic history. His screenwriting prowess, sharp wit, and social commentaries distinguished him from his contemporaries.

Later in life, he sought respite from the frenetic pace of Hollywood and spent considerable time in La Jolla, according to reports. While he never fully retired from making films, La Jolla was said to be a community where he could reflect on his long and successful career and enjoy a quieter existence.

In interviews, Mankiewicz often spoke about the contrast between real life and the movies. And he once said: “The difference between life and the movies is that a script has to make sense, and life doesn’t.” (Goodreads)

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Mankiewicz passed away on Feb. 5, 1993, at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, New York. He died of heart failure at the age of 83. He had four children from three marriages.

Eric Reynal: Born from his first marriage to actress Elizabeth Young (1934-1937).

Christopher Mankiewicz: From his second marriage to actress Rose Stradner (1939-1958).

Tom Mankiewicz: Also, from his marriage to Rose Stradner, Tom became a notable screenwriter and director.

Alexandra (Alex) Mankiewicz: From his third marriage to Rosemary Matthews (1962 until he died in 1993), Alex pursued a career as an illustrator and artist.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

It is well-known in Hollywood history and circles that the Mankiewicz family has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry across multiple generations.

Joseph Mankiewicz’s impact on the film industry endures, but perhaps it was his time in La Jolla that provided him with the peace and perspective that eluded many of his Hollywood peers. Reflecting on his career, he once said: “I’ve been in on the beginning, the rise, peak, collapse, and end of the talking picture.” (BrainyQuote)

FURTHER READING

Biography in: John Wakeman, editor. “World Film Directors, Volume One, 1890-1945.” Pages 714-722. New York: The H.W. Wilson Company, 1987. Biography in: Cheryl Bray Lower & R. Barton Palmer, “Joseph L. Mankiewicz: Critical Studies and Guide to Resources with Annotated Bibliography and Filmography.” Pages 5-23. Jefferson, N.Y.: McFarland & Co., 2001.