Drew Struzan, Legendary Movie Poster Artist Behind ‘Hocus Pocus’ and Iconic Film Artwork, Dies at 81

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The Legacy of Drew Struzan: A Titan of Cinematic Art

The world of cinema and art has lost one of its most illustrious figures. Drew Struzan, a name synonymous with some of the most memorable movie posters in Hollywood history, passed away on October 13, 2025, at the age of 78. Struzan’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease came to an end, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the visual landscape of film storytelling.

Remembering a Visual Storyteller

Struzan’s impact on film art is profound, having created iconic posters for major franchises including Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Back to the Future, and Harry Potter. His ability to capture the essence of a film in a single image made his work instantly recognizable and deeply influential.

“They made event art. The memory of those movies and the age we were when we saw them always comes flashing back just by glancing at his iconic photorealistic imagery,” remarked Steven Spielberg, highlighting the emotional connection fans and viewers have to Struzan’s art.

Tributes from Hollywood’s Finest

The news of Struzan’s passing prompted tributes from across the entertainment industry. Notable filmmaker Guillermo del Toro expressed his sorrow on Bluesky, stating, “The world lost a genius communicator and supreme artist. I lost a friend, beloved.” Similarly, DC president Jim Lee referred to Struzan as “A giant among giants,” praising his unique ability to “capture the humanity, power, and emotion of their subjects in ways not seen since.”

The Artistic Journey of Drew Struzan

Born in Oregon in 1947, Struzan’s passion for art took him to California where he studied at the ArtCenter College of Design. Initially, he made his mark designing album covers for musicians like the Bee Gees and Alice Cooper. However, his career trajectory shifted dramatically towards movie posters with his breakthrough work on the 1978 re-release poster for Star Wars.

Struzan quickly became the go-to artist for filmmakers like Spielberg and George Lucas, crafting some of the most unforgettable images in cinema. His work includes not only adventure and fantasy films but also posters for movies like E.T., Blade Runner, and The Shawshank Redemption.

“I wasn’t looking to tell a story,” Struzan explained in a 2021 interview. “I’m looking to give a person a feeling about something they could hope for.”

Despite retiring in 2008, Struzan returned for special projects, notably for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. His contributions to the arts were also recognized in the 2013 documentary Drew: The Man Behind the Poster.

The Impact of Alzheimer’s on His Later Years

In March 2025, Struzan’s wife, Dylan, shared that his Alzheimer’s disease had advanced to the point where he could no longer paint. She described his body of work as “a love letter of sorts” aimed at making the world more beautiful, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has come across his art.

Struzan’s Enduring Influence

Drew Struzan’s approach to poster art was revolutionary. His technique of blending photorealism with imaginative composition has inspired countless artists. The emotional depth and narrative allure of his posters have elevated movie marketing to an art form in itself, influencing not just how movies are promoted but how they are remembered.

As we reflect on his vast body of work, it’s clear that Struzan was not just creating movie posters; he was crafting gateways to the cinematic worlds they represented. His legacy continues to inspire both seasoned and aspiring artists in the film industry and beyond, ensuring that his influence will be felt for generations to come.

Share Your Memories and Thoughts

Did Drew Struzan’s art leave an impression on you? Perhaps a particular poster remains etched in your memory? Share your thoughts and favorite Struzan artworks in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this post on social media or tag someone who appreciates the art of cinema as much as you do!

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