Tom Jung: The Visionary Behind Legendary Movie Posters

Early Life and Education

Tom Jung, born on February 13, 1942, is a legendary figure in the realm of movie poster art. Raised and educated in Boston, Massachusetts, Jung developed an early interest in art and illustration. He pursued his passion by enrolling in the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where he honed his skills and nurtured his creative talents. During his second year of study, Jung was drafted into the Army. 

Career Beginnings

After being discharged from the Army, Tom Jung moved to New York City to start his career in the art industry. As a freelance illustrator, Jung worked with several New York advertising agencies, including the well-known advertising agency, Young & Rubicam. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into the commercial art world and set the stage for his future successes in movie poster design.

Rise to Prominence

Jung’s entry into the movie poster industry began in the 1960s when he was hired by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), as a freelance art director, and was commissioned to work on movie poster designs for Roadshow. This provided Jung the opportunity to work on creating posters for a variety of films such as, Dr. Zhivago and Grand Prix, which helped him establish a reputation for his distinctive style and ability to capture the essence of a movie. It was this work as a freelance artist and collaborating with major studios, that propelled Jung's career forward and set him up for more major projects that were on the horizon.

Iconic Works

Tom Jung’s body of work includes some of the most iconic and influential movie posters in film history. His posters are celebrated for their artistic composition, emotional depth, and ability to communicate the film’s narrative in a single image. Some of his most iconic works include:

• Star Wars (1977): Jung’s poster for George Lucas's Star Wars is perhaps his most famous creation. The artwork features Luke Skywalker holding a lightsaber aloft, with Princess Leia and other characters in dramatic poses around him. This poster has become synonymous with the film itself and is a defining image of the franchise.

• The Empire Strikes Back (1980): For the sequel to Star Wars, Jung created another iconic poster that captures the epic scope and emotional intensity of the film. The artwork’s romantic and adventurous composition is a testament to Jung’s ability to evoke the film’s themes.

• The Deer Hunter (1978): Jung’s poster for this critically acclaimed film starring Robert De Niro features a powerful and haunting image that reflects the movie’s intense and somber tone. The use of stark contrasts and dramatic imagery makes this poster a memorable piece of art.

• Doctor Zhivago (1965): Jung’s work on the re-release poster of this classic film showcases his skill in creating romantic and visually striking compositions. The poster’s detailed and atmospheric illustration captures the epic nature of the film.

Style and Technique

Tom Jung’s posters are known for their dynamic compositions, detailed illustrations, and evocative use of color and light. His artistic technique often involves a combination of painting and airbrushing, which allows him to achieve a high level of realism and depth. Jung’s ability to blend dramatic imagery with emotional resonance makes his posters compelling and memorable.

Affiliations and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Tom Jung collaborated with major film studios such as 20th Century Fox, Warner Bros., and Universal Pictures. His work on iconic films often involved close collaboration with directors and producers to ensure that the posters accurately represented the essence of the movies. Jung’s posters have played a significant role in the marketing and success of many classic films.

Awards and Recognition

Tom Jung’s contributions to the world of movie posters have earned him numerous accolades and recognition within the industry. Although there are few specific awards for movie poster art, Jung’s work has been celebrated through exhibitions, retrospectives, and inclusion in major art collections. His posters are often cited in lists of the greatest movie posters of all time, highlighting his impact on the art form.

Legacy

Tom Jung’s legacy in the realm of movie poster art is undeniable. His ability to create visually stunning and emotionally engaging posters has left an indelible mark on the film industry. The enduring appeal of his posters for films like Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back speaks to his extraordinary talent and vision.

Jung’s influence continues to inspire new generations of artists and designers. His work is studied and admired for its artistic excellence and ability to capture the spirit of the films it represents. Collectors and fans alike seek out his posters, recognizing them as timeless pieces of cinematic history.

Today, Tom Jung’s posters are featured in major art collections and museums, celebrated for their artistic merit and historical significance. His contribution to the world of movie posters has not only promoted films but also created enduring works of art that continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.