Daniel Taradash

Biography

Daniel Taradash (January 29, 1913 – February 22, 2003) was an American screenwriter and producer known for his work on some of Hollywood's most acclaimed films. He won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for From Here to Eternity (1953).

Early Life

Daniel Taradash was born on January 29, 1913, in Louisville, Kentucky. He studied at Harvard University, where he earned a law degree. After practicing law briefly, he turned his attention to writing and entered the film industry.

Screenwriting Career

Taradash began his Hollywood career in the 1940s and became known for adapting literary works into successful screenplays. His writing was praised for strong dialogue, emotional depth, and realistic characters.

His notable screenwriting credits include:

• Golden Boy (1939)
• Knock on Any Door (1949)
• Destination Moon (1950)
• The Barefoot Contessa (1954)
• Picnic (1955)
• Storm Center (1956)
• The Mountain Road (1960)

From Here to Eternity

Taradash achieved his greatest success with From Here to Eternity (1953), adapted from James Jones' novel. The film, directed by Fred Zinnemann, became a major critical and commercial success.

His screenplay earned him the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, establishing him as one of Hollywood's leading writers.

Desirée (1954)

Taradash also wrote the screenplay for Desirée (1954), directed by Henry Koster and starring Marlon Brando and Jean Simmons. The historical drama explored the early romance between Napoleon Bonaparte and Désirée Clary, a love that could not overcome Napoleon's ambitions.

Later Career

In addition to screenwriting, Taradash served as a producer and became involved with the Writers Guild of America. He was elected president of the Screen Writers Guild and played an important role in supporting the rights of Hollywood writers.

Awards and Honors

Taradash received several honors, including:

• Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay – From Here to Eternity (1953)
• Writers Guild of America Award
• Recognition for his contributions to American screenwriting

Personal Life

Daniel Taradash was married to actress Clare Du Brey. He remained active in Hollywood and the writers' community throughout his life.

Death

Daniel Taradash died on February 22, 2003, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 90.