Robert Milton Young, usually known as Robert M. Young (born November 22, 1924), is an American film director, cinematographer, screenwriter, and producer. In 1985 he was a member of the jury at the 14th Moscow International Film Festival. He has frequently cast Edward James Olmos in his movies, directing him in Alambrista! (1977), The Ballad of Gregorio Cortez (1982), Saving Grace (1986), Triumph of the Spirit (1989), Talent for the Game (1991), Roosters (1993), Slave of Dreams (1995) and Caught (1996). He produced Olmos's directorial debut, American Me (1992). Early life and education Young was born in New York City in 1924. His father was a cameraman who later owned a film laboratory. Robert began college at MIT to become a chemical engineer. He left after two years to join the Navy in World War II and served in the Pacific in New Guinea and in the Philippines. Upon returning to America after the war he decided to study English literature at Harvard University. He also developed an interest in filmmaking and graduated from Harvard University in 1949. Early career After graduation, Young formed a cooperative partnership with two friends making educational films. In 1960, he worked for NBC making public affairs programs for NBC White Paper. In 1960, on behalf of NBC, he went to the American South to make the film Sit-In about the civil rights protests and sit-ins. The film won a Peabody Award. He later left NBC to pursue narrative film work. Filmography Filmmaking credits Feature films Documentaries Canselled film: Cortile Cascino (1962) Television Technical credits Feature films Documentaries and other Television References Further reading Lewis, Leon (editor). Robert M. Young : essays on the films, Jefferson, N.C. ; London : McFarland & Co., 2005. External links "Robert M. Young Filmography", Fandango A Tribute to Robert M. Young at Cinequest Robert M. Young at the Cannes Festival 1924 births Living people American cinematographers Film producers from New York (state) American male screenwriters American television directors Emmy Award winners George Polk Award recipients Writers from New York City Peabody Award winners Harvard University alumni MIT School of Engineering alumni Film directors from New York City Screenwriters from New York (state) Directors of Caméra d'Or winners United States Navy personnel of World War II