Biography
Allan Dwan, born Joseph Aloysius Dwan, was a Canadian-born American film director, producer and screenwriter. He was born in Toronto on 3 April 1885 and began directing in the silent era around 1911, working initially with companies such as Essanay and American Film. Over a career spanning to 1961, he directed more than 400 films.
Dwan directed Robin Hood (1922) with Douglas Fairbanks, Heidi (1937) and Sands of Iwo Jima (1949). He also directed the Western Silver Lode (1954). He contributed to technical innovations including early use of the dolly shot and crane shots.
Dwan died in Los Angeles on 28 December 1981.
