Renowned filmmaker Eleanor Coppola, known for her directing and documentary work, has sadly passed away at the age of 87. The Emmy and DGA Award-winning director, who was married to legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola for 61 years, died at her home in Rutherford, CA.

Eleanor Coppola's notable achievements include directing the acclaimed documentary Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse, which provided an intimate look into the making of her husband's iconic Vietnam War film, Apocalypse Now. The production of Apocalypse Now faced numerous challenges, including budget constraints, script issues, and even a typhoon that destroyed parts of the set. Eleanor captured behind-the-scenes footage and her documentary has become a definitive account of a major motion picture production.

Beyond her work on Hearts of Darkness, Eleanor Coppola directed two feature films. In 2016, at the age of 80, she made her dramatic feature debut with Paris Can Wait, becoming the oldest American director to do so. The film, starring Diane Lane, Arnaud Viard, and Alec Baldwin, follows a woman on a journey through the French countryside, providing a respite from her neglectful husband. Eleanor's ability to bring this fictional story to life surprised even herself, as she never imagined making a fiction feature.

In 2020, Eleanor wrote and directed Love Is Love Is Love, a film that weaves together three tales exploring love, commitment, and loyalty. The film premiered at the Deauville Film Festival, showcasing Eleanor's continued creativity and storytelling prowess.

Aside from her directing work, Eleanor Coppola was also recognized for her talent as a writer and conceptual artist. Her drawings, photos, and conceptual art pieces have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, from San Francisco to Stockholm. Eleanor's unique vision extended to her short films and "concept commercials," showcasing her artistic sensibilities.

Eleanor Coppola's impact on the film industry, both as a documentarian and a dramatic director, cannot be overstated. Her dedication to capturing the behind-the-scenes realities of filmmaking and her ability to tell captivating stories will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.

The entire film community mourns the loss of this talented and influential artist. Eleanor Coppola leaves behind a legacy of creative excellence and an enduring contribution to the world of cinema.