Anthony Minghella, British film director, producer and screenwriter, passed away on March 18, 2008, aged 54. Minghella was born in Ryde, Isle of Wight, England, in 1954. He studied English and Drama at Hull University, before becoming an assistant director at the Open Space Theatre in London. Minghella made his directorial debut in 1987 with the television film 'Union Street', which resulted in an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film. He then wrote and directed feature films, such as 'Truly, Madly, Deeply' and 'The English Patient'. The latter was awarded over fifteen awards, including nine Academy Awards, making Minghella the first British director to win an Oscar since 1983. Minghella went on to direct 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' and 'Cold Mountain', amongst other films, and he won a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama for 'The Talented Mr. Ripley'. His last feature film was 'Breaking and Entering'. Minghella was also an acclaimed stage director, and he founded the Thin Man Productions production company. He will be remembered for his hard work, dedication, and contributions to the film industry. Minghella is survived by his wife Carolyn Choa, daughter Hannah and son Max.