On January 15th, 2025, David Keith Lynch passed away from Emphysema, a life-long illness that causes shortness of breath. Some speculate this was because of the recent California fires, but David was also a lifetime smoker. He left behind a legacy, and although his smile is gone, he won’t be forgotten so soon, especially not by those who enjoy dark, ominous movies that make your hair stand on end.
Throughout his career and life, Lynch made at least 23 amazing movies, ten feature films, 46 short films, four television shows, and acted in 11 other movies, some of which were his own. He’s most notably known for “Eraserhead,” made in 1977, which explores the fear and anxiety associated with becoming a father. Although, many say his best film is “Blue Velvet,” made in 1986 which sends a message that corruption is everywhere, even in places immune to it. His highest grossing film, Dune (1984), also made over $27 million in profit. Yet, his personal favorite movie had to be “The Wizard of Oz.”
“There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t think of the Wizard of Oz.” Lynch said in an interview. He loved the immense emotional power it contained, as well as the weird balance between fear and dreams. It had just been the perfect amount of balance for him, and for that reason, it was his lifelong favorite.
His influence on his era was heavy. People often call him one of the most important filmmakers of his time, and is even referred to as a “visionary” as well. Over the years of his life, he won four awards total, including the Golden Lion, and was nominated for 15 more. Overall, his life had been one that many dream of having.
Although Lynch is going to be missed dearly, he left behind an important history, and many amazing films. Lynch is proof that you can do anything you put your mind to, even make ominous films for horror lovers to enjoy.
