May has been a heartbreaking month for cinema lovers, as we lost three extraordinary individuals whose work helped shape, define, and elevate the golden age of modern movie-making. Whether slicing film stock to find the human heart of a massive space opera, creating the psychological blueprint for classic marketing campaigns, or revitalizing the lost art of the illustrated poster in the 21st century, these three creators left an indelible mark on how we look at the movies.

I remember years ago – I think it was early September, 2016 – when Drew Struzan first called me on the phone in response to a heartfelt letter I’d written him, asking if he’d participate in the documentary. “Hi Adam, this is Drew,” he said. His softspoken voice was instantly recognizable; I often compare it to that of filmmaker Werner Herzog, only without the German or the crazy. “Drew!” I exclaimed…then I froze, tongue-tied. “So is it ‘AM-zel’ or ‘am-ZELLE’?” he asked.

I wanted to pay tribute to four illustrators who passed away recently. My thoughts go out to their families and friends. We’re on the cusp of losing a generation of masters. Philip Castle (1942-2026) Castle, who died last February, was the English illustrator behind such legendary movie posters as A Clockwork Orange and Full Metal Jacket for Stanley Kubrick, the concert tour campaign for Paul McCartney’s Wings, and record sleeves for albums by David Bowie, Mott the Hoop