Robert Altman

Robert Altman (1925–2006) was an American film director whose ensemble casts, overlapping dialogue, and improvisational methods reshaped Hollywood filmmaking. His films include *M*A*S*H*, Nashville, and The Player.

Ensemble cast: A group of principal performers share a story’s focus rather than supporting one dominant protagonist. Altman built sprawling films around many characters whose stories unfold together.
M*A*S*H: A 1970 black comedy directed by Robert Altman, set among military surgeons during the Korean War. Its irreverent ensemble and overlapping dialogue established Altman’s major breakthrough.
Kansas City, Missouri: A major city in Missouri where Robert Altman was born and began his career in filmmaking. Altman’s Midwestern background preceded his move into commercial and feature filmmaking.
Lily Tomlin: An American actor and comedian who performed in several Robert Altman films. Her performances in Nashville and Short Cuts anchor Altman’s ensemble narratives.
New Hollywood: A period of American filmmaking from the late 1960s through the 1970s marked by director-driven films and changing studio practices. Altman became one of its most distinctive directors, using creative autonomy and unconventional form.
Overlapping dialogue: Speech by multiple people occurs at the same time, making conversation sound less staged. Altman layered simultaneous voices to create the texture of real social spaces.
Nashville: A 1975 film following interlocking lives in the country-music industry during a political campaign. Its large cast and braided storylines form a defining example of Altman’s method.
Calvin Company: A Kansas City production company that made industrial and educational films. Altman directed films there, gaining practical experience before Hollywood features.
Shelley Duvall: An American actor known for distinctive roles in films by Robert Altman and others. Altman cast her in several films, including 3 Women, which won her the Cannes acting award.
Cannes Film Festival: An annual international film festival held in Cannes, France. Altman won its top prize for *M*A*S*H* and its directing prize for The Player.

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