The Writers Guild of America West has announced that acclaimed writer, producer, and director Walter Hill will be honored with the prestigious 2024 Laurel Award for screenwriting achievement. This lifetime achievement award is bestowed upon individuals who have significantly contributed to the art of screenwriting and the profession as a whole.
Walter Hill's impact on the film industry is widely recognized, with his unique style influencing and inspiring generations of screenwriters. WGAW President Meredith Stiehm expressed admiration for Hill's enduring career and the Guild's privilege in presenting him with the Screen Laurel Award.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hill has left an indelible mark on cinema with a diverse body of work. As a writer, his credits include notable films such as Hickey and Boggs, The Getaway, The Drowning Pool, Aliens, and Alien 3. Hill also made a name for himself as a director, debuting with the critically acclaimed Hard Times in 1975, followed by the cult classic The Warriors in 1979.
His directorial repertoire further includes Southern Comfort, 48 Hrs., Streets of Fire, Red Heat, Last Man Standing, and Dead for a Dollar. While Hill has not received WGA Award nominations, he is a two-time DGA Award winner for his work on Broken Trail and an episode of HBO's Deadwood. In 2022, he was honored with the Cartier Glory to the Filmmaker Award at the Venice Film Festival for his latest film, Dead for a Dollar.
Walter Hill's contributions to the world of cinema have been significant and enduring, solidifying his legacy as a master storyteller and visionary filmmaker. The Writers Guild of America West's recognition of his achievements with the 2024 Laurel Award is a testament to his unparalleled talent and impact on the art of screenwriting.
