R.I.P. Ken Russell

Controversial British director Ken Russell passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Sunday night after experiencing a series of strokes. He was 84 years old.

Russell made a name for himself with a series of acclaimed, much-discussed, highly sexual and occasionally grotesque pictures including Women in Love (for which he received a Best Director Oscar nomination), The Devils, Altered States and Crimes of Passion.

In 1975, Russell directed a film adaptation of The Who’s rock opera Tommy.

He was reportedly working on a musical feature film based on Alice in Wonderland at the time of his death.

Russell is survived by his wife Elize Tribble and his five children.

R.I.P.