Heywood Gould

Biography

Heywood Gould, born on December 19, 1942, in the Bronx, New York City, is a distinguished American screenwriter, journalist, novelist, and film director. His multifaceted career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions to both literature and cinema.

Early Life and Journalism

Gould's journey began in New York, where he was born and raised. He started his professional career as a journalist, a foundation that honed his writing skills and provided him with a keen eye for storytelling. This journalistic background influenced his narrative style, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of character development.

Screenwriting Career

Transitioning from journalism to screenwriting, Gould penned several notable screenplays:

Rolling Thunder (1977): Gould was brought in to rewrite Paul Schrader's original script. His contributions included adding depth to the protagonist, a former POW, by incorporating monologues that explored the character's psychological trauma. Although not all his additions remained in the final cut, his influence is evident in the film's poignant moments.

The Boys from Brazil (1978): Gould adapted Ira Levin's novel into a screenplay for this gripping thriller, showcasing his ability to translate complex narratives to the screen.

Fort Apache, The Bronx (1981): This screenplay, though written earlier, was produced in 1981. It reflects Gould's deep understanding of urban life and the challenges faced by law enforcement in volatile environments.

Streets of Gold (1986): Gould's screenplay delved into the world of boxing, focusing on themes of resilience and the immigrant experience.

Cocktail (1988): Perhaps one of his most commercially successful works, this film starred Tom Cruise and delved into the life of a charismatic bartender.

Directorial Ventures

Expanding his creative horizons, Gould ventured into directing, bringing his unique vision to the following films:

One Good Cop (1991): A crime drama that explores the moral dilemmas faced by a police officer after the death of his partner.

Trial by Jury (1994): This legal thriller examines the pressures and dangers a juror faces when targeted by the mob.

Mistrial (1996): A television movie that delves into the complexities of the justice system when a detective takes a courtroom hostage to ensure a conviction.

Double Bang (2001): A crime drama that intertwines themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for justice.

Literary Contributions

Beyond screenwriting and directing, Gould is also an accomplished author. His bibliography includes works like "Corporation Freak" (1971), a nonfiction account detailing his experiences working at IBM's Advanced Systems Development Division in 1968.