Howard Suber Wikipedia, Biography
Howard Suber is a renowned film scholar, educator, and expert in the entertainment industry. He served for over 45 years on the faculty at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television (TFT), where he played a pivotal role in establishing and chairing several key programs, including the Critical Studies and Ph.D. programs, the UCLA Film & Television Archive, and the UCLA Producers Program.
A respected authority in film history, production, and business, Suber has also been a consultant for major film studios and an expert witness in significant entertainment industry lawsuits. His academic work and teaching have earned him prestigious awards, including UCLA’s Distinguished Teaching Award and the Dickson Emeriti Professorship Award. Suber is also the author of “The Power of Film,” a widely acclaimed text that explores the influence of cinema.
Howard Suber Age
Howard Suber was born on July 21, 1938, which makes him 86 years old as of 2024.
Howard Suber Nationality/Ethnicity
Howard Suber is American by nationality and is of white ethnicity.
Howard Suber Early Life
Howard Suber was born in the 1930s in Michigan, USA, and grew up in a working-class family. He was one of four children, raised by his father, a dry cleaner. His early life remains somewhat private, with few details publicly available about his personal experiences or upbringing. However, it is known that his childhood in Michigan set the stage for his eventual academic and professional achievements.
Howard Suber Educational Background
Howard Suber’s educational journey began at Harvard University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Suber continued his academic pursuits at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he earned both his Master’s (M.A.) and Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Theater, Film, and Television.
Howard Suber Wife and Children
Howard Suber has been married to Roberta Suber since June 1958. They have two children together. Details about his children and family life are kept relatively private, with limited public information available on them.
Howard Suber Net Worth
Howard Suber’s estimated net worth is around $6 million. His wealth is derived from his long career as a professor, author, and media consultant, along with his work in film education.
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Howard Suber Career
Howard Suber is widely celebrated for his extensive career as a film scholar, educator, and author. His contributions to the film and television industry, especially in the realm of academia, have shaped the way generations of students approach the art of cinema. Suber began his academic career at UCLA in 1966, where he would go on to teach for over five decades.
Early Academic Contributions at UCLA
Howard Suber’s career in academia began in 1966 when he became an associate professor at UCLA’s Department of Theater, Film, and Television. From the outset, he was deeply involved in shaping the structure of the film program. He played an instrumental role in establishing the Critical Studies Program and the Film & Television Archive, which are both integral parts of UCLA’s renowned School of Theater, Film, and Television (TFT). Suber’s approach to teaching was unconventional and deeply analytical. He taught over 65 unique courses during his tenure, focusing on everything from narrative structure to the impact of cinema on culture. His influence at UCLA extended beyond the classroom, where he was also a mentor to many students who later became successful filmmakers, writers, and critics themselves.
The Legacy of “Film Structure” Class
Among Suber’s most iconic contributions is his course on “Film Structure,” which became a hallmark of his teaching career. This class, which he continued to teach even after retiring in 1994 as a professor emeritus, explored the theoretical underpinnings of narrative cinema. Suber’s expertise in breaking down films into their core components—such as structure, theme, and style—gave students a unique perspective on how to analyze and create films. His method was rigorous, and he encouraged his students to delve into films repeatedly, fostering a deep appreciation for the layers of meaning within great works of cinema.
Administrative Roles and Leadership
Suber’s contributions to UCLA went beyond teaching. He was instrumental in shaping the institution’s broader film and television programs. Suber chaired several significant initiatives at UCLA, including the creation of the Film & Television Archive and the UCLA Producers Program. His leadership helped elevate the university’s reputation as one of the premier institutions for film studies. Additionally, Suber served as the Associate Dean of the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television, where he worked on curriculum development and the academic direction of the department.
Writing and Scholarly Contributions
Beyond his teaching, Howard Suber has authored several influential books that further cement his legacy as a thought leader in the field of film studies. His most well-known works include The Power of Film (2006) and Letters to Young Filmmakers (2012). The Power of Film examines the role of film as a cultural force, and its impact on shaping societal values, while Letters to Young Filmmakers offers guidance to emerging filmmakers, providing them with insights drawn from Suber’s vast experience in the industry. His books have become essential reading for students and professionals in film education, reflecting his depth of knowledge and passion for the craft.
Public Speaking and Influence Beyond Academia
In addition to his work as a professor and author, Howard Suber has been a sought-after public speaker and consultant. He has made numerous appearances at film festivals, conferences, and panels, where his deep understanding of cinema and its history has earned him respect among both academics and industry professionals. Suber’s ability to articulate the intricacies of film in clear and engaging terms has made him a valued voice in the wider cinematic community. His lectures and presentations, often featuring personal insights and historical context, have enriched the understanding of both classic and contemporary cinema.
Recent Developments and “The Power of Film” Series
In 2024, Suber’s decades-long exploration of film took a new form with the release of The Power of Film as a six-episode television series on Turner Classic Movies (TCM). The series, which aired its first episodes in January 2024, explores the principles and inner workings of some of the most beloved and iconic films in history. Suber, in collaboration with former students turned filmmakers, delves into the cultural and artistic significance of these films, offering audiences a deeper understanding of how movies shape our perception of the world.
Howard Suber Awards and Recognitions
Howard Suber has received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his contribution to film education and his impact on the industry. Some of his key awards and recognitions include:
- Lifetime Achievement Award at the Temecula Valley International Film Festival (2003): This prestigious award honored Suber’s enduring influence on the film industry, especially in the realm of education and the study of cinematic structures.
- UCLA Distinguished Teaching Award: Suber was recognized with UCLA’s Distinguished Teaching Award for his exceptional contributions to teaching and mentoring students at the university.
- Dickson Emeriti Professorship Award (2013-2014): As one of the highest honors a retired faculty member can receive, this award highlighted Suber’s outstanding career at UCLA, where he had a profound impact on the Film and Television department.
Howard Suber Books
Here is a list of Howard Suber’s books:
- The Power of Film (2006)
- This is perhaps Suber’s most recognized work, offering an in-depth analysis of how films work and what makes them effective. It is structured as a detailed A-to-Z guide on various elements of filmmaking and storytelling, combining theory with practical insights for both aspiring filmmakers and film lovers. This book was highly regarded in the film academic community and is used in film studies programs.
- The Art of Film Criticism: A Guide for Beginners (2003)
- Suber co-authored this guide to help newcomers understand the essential principles and techniques behind film criticism. Aimed at providing a foundation for critical analysis, it introduces readers to methods for evaluating films beyond surface-level opinions.
- Film Study: An Analytical Method (1984)
- In this book, Suber presents a framework for the academic study of film, drawing upon his vast experience teaching at UCLA. The book focuses on methods for breaking down and analyzing films, making it an essential tool for students and educators in the field of film studies.
These three are the most well-known and significant contributions from Howard Suber to the world of film studies. His work, particularly The Power of Film, has become a landmark text in both academic and professional film circles.
FAQs
Who is Howard Suber?
Howard Suber is a highly respected film scholar and educator, known for his work in film narrative structure. He taught at UCLA for over 40 years and authored books like The Power of Film and Letters to Young Filmmakers: Creativity and Getting Your Films Made.
What is Howard Suber’s most famous book?
Suber’s most well-known work is The Power of Film, which explores the emotional and cultural impact of films, particularly those that have shaped cinematic history.
What was Howard Suber’s role at UCLA?
At UCLA, Suber played a pivotal role in founding the graduate program, chairing the UCLA Film Archive, and establishing several key programs within the Film and Television Department.
What contributions did Howard Suber make to film education?
Suber is credited with significantly shaping film studies, especially through his exploration of film as an art form and his focus on film structure, rather than just technical filmmaking.
What is “The Power of Film” documentary series?
This six-part documentary series, based on Suber’s book, explores the cultural impact of iconic films. It premiered in 2024 and features Suber’s insights alongside footage from acclaimed movies.
