A tribute to Paul Hitchcock by Roy Button:
As we unfortunately know, Paul Hitchcock very sadly passed away recently.
Paul started in the budgeting department at Pinewood, then went to United Artists as a Production Executive in 1966. He then became Head of Production for Paramount Pictures.
Then, he became Head of Production for Warner Brothers ’69 – ’92. He then became an Independent Producer for several Mission Impossible films, Man In the Iron Mask, Phantom of the Opera, etc.
Paul worked on over 100 films ranging from Khartoum, The Italian Job, Oh What a Lovely War, Clockwork Orange, Barry Lyndon, The Shining and Batman.
As you can see, a man of great experience, talent and personality. Paul was Old School. I mean that in an extremely positive way because Paul helped set up the foundations of the Industry which most of us can remember ranging from Industry deals, Production Guild, Tax Rebates, Production problems, and, most importantly a wonderfully productive relationship with other Producers and Stars - always the consummate gentleman.
Paul was also extremely good at handling the company’s wants and wishes. He was a mentor to many of us. His influence on the Industry, and us all, will remain constant. He helped us achieve where we are now in the Production world.
Paul will be sadly missed for his sage-like advice to us all – being very approachable at all times. He had very many friends throughout the Industry, and much helpful advice regarding Studios. This was applied to the UK, Europe and Africa.
A great founding member of our Industry – we shall all miss him incredibly.
- Roy Button
PGGB wil inform the membership with funeral arrangements in due course.
