In the world of classic cinema, few have left as indelible a mark as Michael Schlesinger. For over two and a half decades, he championed film classics and lesser-known B-movies, working with major studios like United Artists, Paramount, and Sony. His dedication to preserving cinematic history earned him respect and admiration from cinephiles and filmmakers alike.

Advocate for Cinema’s Past, Present, and Future

The Man Behind the Screenings

Michael Schlesinger was a beloved figure at numerous film festivals and events in Los Angeles. Whether conducting interviews or offering insightful commentary on DVDs, his presence was always felt. A standout moment was his work on Stanley Kramer’s "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," a film he held dear. Schlesinger often quipped, “People think I live in the past. No, I live in the present. I just vacation in the past.” This sentiment encapsulated his passion for both contemporary and vintage cinema.Born in Dayton, Ohio, in September 1950, Schlesinger embarked on his cinematic journey after graduating from Ohio University in 1972. His early career involved working for Tri-State Theaters in Cincinnati and co-owning a repertory theater. He also hosted classic movie screenings on local television, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.

Pioneering Restorations and Reissues

Schlesinger’s tenure at United Artists Classics began with the theatrical reissue of John Frankenheimer’s "The Manchurian Candidate" in 1988. At Paramount Pictures Distribution, he played a crucial role in the 50th anniversary release of Orson Welles’ "Citizen Kane" and the restoration of Welles’ unfinished documentary "It’s All True." Additionally, he tackled Samuel Fuller’s controversial "White Dog," a film that delved into themes of racism.At Sony Repertory, under the guidance of studio executive Jeff Blake, Schlesinger oversaw the 70mm restoration of "Lawrence of Arabia" and the release of "The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra," a spoof of B-movies. His expertise extended to producing a U.S. version of "Godzilla 2000," where he adjusted the dialogue to align with American sensibilities. “I aimed to inject intentional humor while maintaining the human elements on a lighter level,” Schlesinger explained. “This approach helped balance the perception of Godzilla films.”

A Career Beyond Studios

Post-studio life saw Schlesinger directing comedy shorts featuring the fictional duo Biffle and Shooster. He also helmed "Rock and Doris (Try to) Write a Movie," starring Marilu Henner, which premiered at the Palm Springs International Comedy Festival. Another personal favorite was "Sh! The Octopus," a 1937 Warner Bros. comedy starring Hugh Herbert and Allen Jenkins as bumbling detectives.

Honoring a Cinematic Legacy

Friend and film historian Joseph McBride described Schlesinger as “a true mensch” who passionately preserved and distributed classic films. Despite challenges within major studios, Schlesinger remained a driving force in advocating for Hollywood’s legacy. His contributions ensured that future generations could appreciate the richness of film history.