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French filmmaker Tony Gatlif dies at 77

The acclaimed director was known for over two decades of cinema celebrating Roma culture and music.

The short version

  • French film director Tony Gatlif has died at age 77 following a health issue in Arles, France.
  • His career spanned more than 20 films, many centered on Roma heritage, including acclaimed works like Latcho Drom, Gadjo Dilo, and Exils.
  • At the time of his passing, Gatlif was actively working on a historical film project.

Key facts

  • Tony Gatlif died on Wednesday in Arles, Provence, France, at the age of 77 due to a health issue, according to a family statement.[The Guardian]
  • He directed more than 20 films, frequently focusing on Roma culture and music.[The Guardian]
  • His 1993 film Latcho Drom won the Un Certain Regard award at the Cannes Film Festival, and his 2004 film Exils earned him the Cannes Best Director prize.[The Guardian]
  • Gatlif was born Michel Dahmani in Algeria in 1948 to a family of Berber and Roma heritage before relocating to France in 1960.[The Guardian]

What remains uncertain

  • Specific details regarding the exact nature of the health issue and the status of his unfinished historical film project were not immediately disclosed.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.