David R. Ellis

Description:

Began as an actor in Kurt Russell-Disney Films in 1974. Made the switch to the Stunt world following a successful career as a junior pro surfer. Born, bred, and resided in Malibu. Many, many stunts later, David made the promotion to Stunt Coordinator in 1978 on Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978). Coordinating TV and films all over the world brought him up to the position of 2nd Unit Director on Gorky Park (1983). "Action" movies proceeded to explode along with David's career. Befriending Harrison Ford, two of David's most notable 2nd units were Patriot Games (1992) and Clear and Present Danger (1994). As shown in Filmography, he worked back-to-back until the break from Disney, offering to 1st unit Direct the feature, Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco (1996). Directorial debut grossed over $100 Million. Completed two features for 1997, Desperate Measures (1998) & Sphere (1998) with Barry Levinson.

Overview

Birthday September 8, 1952

Born In Santa Monica, California, USA

Alternative names Dave Ellis , David Richard Ellis , David Ellis , Davis Ellis

Height 188 cm

Spouse/Ex- Cindy Ellis February 14, 1986 - January 7, 2013 (his death),Debbi A. Davison September 3, 1978 - 1985 (divorced)

Children Cheyenne Ellis

Did you know

Trivia Ellis worked as Second Unit Director on Cop Out (2009) directing the car chases. After Ellis' passing director of Cop Out Kevin Smith repeated this story told to him by Ellis, "Ellis told me a story about nearly getting car-jacked. Stunt man that he was, he did a 0 to 60 spinning reverse. Agog, the jackers ran off.".

Quotes Waterworld was the best time of my life. It was physically demanding, but it was fun. I mean, you're in Hawaii for nine months shooting on the water every day.

Salaries $1,250,000

Trademarks Characters in unexpected peril