Roy Frumkes is an American film director, producer, writer, and actor. He is best known for his work in the horror/sci-fi genre, having directed and written the cult classic, “The Return of the Living Dead” and its sequel, “Return of the Living Dead Part II”.
Frumkes was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1949. He was raised in Manhattan and attended Stuyvesant High School. After high school, he attended Brandeis University and earned his degree in American Studies. He then went on to earn a master’s degree in film from New York University.
Frumkes began his career in the film industry as an assistant director and editor for the documentary short, “Death in Venice Beach” (1975). He then went on to write and direct two horror/sci-fi films, “The Vindicator” (1986) and “The Return of the Living Dead” (1985).
“The Return of the Living Dead” was a highly successful cult classic, grossing over $13 million at the box office. The film spawned several sequels, as well as a spin-off series of comic books.
In addition to directing and writing films, Frumkes has also produced and acted in a number of titles. He has produced such films as “Hellraiser: Bloodline” (1996) and “The Stink of Flesh” (2005). He has also had acting roles in movies such as “The Lost Boys” (1987) and “The Return of the Living Dead Part II” (1988).
Throughout his career, Frumkes has been an advocate for independent filmmaking. He has written and produced several documentaries, including “Document of the Dead” (1989) and “The Mind’s Eye” (1999). He has also been a vocal supporter of the film festival circuit, having spoken at numerous festivals around the world.
Frumkes’ work has been recognized by several organizations, including the British Academy of Film and Television Arts and the National Board of Review. He continues to work in the film industry, both in the United States and abroad.
