Biography

Roy William Neill was born on September 4, 1887 in ship off Ireland. He was a director and producer, known for Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943), The Scarlet Claw (1944) and Black Angel (1946). He was married to Betty MacLaglen. He died on December 14, 1946 in London, England, UK.

Best-known for directing the Sherlock Holmes series of films at Universal, starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce. Neill was something of an expert on the subject of Holmes and, consequently, was often meticulous in his attention to detail (if one takes into account the fact that the series was set, rather incongruously, in the 1940s). Visually, at least, the films proved a triumph of style over content, particularly with the interpretation of Holmes himself, and through atmospheric lighting and judicious use of shadows.

Was born on a ship off the coast of Ireland. His father was the captain.

In films from 1915, he began as assistant to Thomas H. Ince, directing in his own right by the following year. During the silent period he worked at several different studios, including Fox (1925-27). He was under contract to Columbia from 1930-36, followed by a spell at Warners between 1938-39. During this time he established a reputation as a stylish maker of B-grade movies. He had, arguably, his best spell during the final years of his career at Universal (1942-46).

Died of a heart attack while on vacation in England visiting relatives.