Over 200 films were produced throughout the career of Menahem Golan, an Israeli filmmaker who reshaped the landscape of independent cinema. Born in Tiberias in 1929, he evolved from a stage apprentice at the Habima Theater into a globally active producer, screenwriter, and director, eventually securing the Israel Prize for his extensive contributions to the medium.
Early Training and Military Service
Born Menachem Globus, he moved through several rigorous educational environments including the Old Vic School, the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, and New York University Tisch School of the Arts. During the 1948 Palestine war, he served as a pilot in the Israeli Air Force before focusing his efforts on theatrical direction and film production.
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Operating alongside his cousin Yoram Globus, he co-owned The Cannon Group. The company became known for churning out genre-heavy projects, featuring stars like Sean Connery, Sylvester Stallone, and Chuck Norris. During this tenure, he produced films such as Delta Force and Runaway Train, while also attempting various high-profile comic book adaptations like Masters of the Universe and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace.
Directorial Success and Artistic Range
Beyond his work as a producer, he directed 44 films throughout his life. His directorial resume includes the 1977 production Operation Thunderbolt and the musical The Apple, which earned a cult following despite negative critical reception. He also acted as an assistant to Roger Corman, gaining valuable experience that influenced his later work in both low-to-mid-budget features and ambitious international co-productions.
Final Years and Legacy
After resigning from Cannon in 1989, he founded the 21st Century Film Corporation. He continued producing until the company faced bankruptcy in 1996. He received several honors, including the Ophir Award for lifetime achievement in 1994 and the Yakir Tel-Aviv Yafo award in 2014. He died in Jaffa on 8 August 2014 and is buried at Menucha Nechona Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1929, Tiberias
- Died: 8 August 2014, Jaffa
- Education: New York University Tisch School of the Arts
- Production credits: Over 200 films
- Directorial credits: 44 films
- Notable awards: Israel Prize (1999), Ophir Award (1994)
- Pen name: Joseph Goldman
- Military service: Israeli Air Force pilot
Questions readers ask
What was the relationship between Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus?
They were cousins who co-owned and managed The Cannon Group together.
Did Menahem Golan write under other names?
Yes, he frequently wrote and polished scripts under the pseudonym Joseph Goldman.
