Larry Kramer worked as a researcher at Paramount
Larry Kramer, son of helmer Stanley Kramer and who was a story analyst at Paramount, died Oct. 31 in Beijing due to complications from a fall. He was 59.
At Par from 1993-2001, Kramer helped research and develop film projects from the Kennedy assassination, to the IRA, McCarthyism and World War II. He contributed to the script development of several films, including 1991’s “The Silence of the Lambs.”
Before that he worked at Orion Pictures from 1986-92 in a similar capacity as well as a production assistant.
He frequently lectured at Taipei National U. and Shanghai U. on subjects of American mass culture in entertainment and was a popular panel guest on Beijing’s CCTV Intl. Channel. In 2006, Beijing presented Kramer with the Great Wall Friendship Award for his contributions as a foreign expert to the country’s art education.
Survivors include his wife, filmmaker Emily Liu Kramer, and a sister, actress Casey.
Donations may be made to MemorialTrees.com.
Douglas Erenberg
"Son of....": famous last words of the world we grew up in!!
i was in Larry's classes all through elementary school, and he was a 'crazy wacky kid' in the best of terms. He certainly was unique and an individual amongst kids!
My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Laurel Gilbert (Phillips)
Glad to be apprised though 5 years after the fact, I remember Larry in high school and send condolences to his family.
Scott Lane
Bless you Larry. Fond memories of a gentle albeit quirky and passionate intellect who "in crowd" classmates never quite "got" at El Rodeo. I liked him and remember his smile. Nice when you can recall a smile fifty some odd years later.
I never realized his dad was Stanley Kramer until one night while on a date in high school with an older girl, who I was no doubt trying to impress, I took her to the Luau (Great memories). As the maitre'de was taking us to the romantic dark corner table I had requested (with the high straw chairs - remember?), suddently a voice rang out from across the restaurant: "Scott...!! Scott Lane!!! Over here!". I could barely make out who fellow was seated at a table with several older people who, I surmised as I got closer, were his parents. As I approached, somewhat awkwardly and embarrassed with milady in hand, I observed this fellow, who was starting to look very familiar, lean over and say to a distinguished, grey haired rather military looking gentleman next to him: "Dad, this is Scott Lane. I really want you to meet him". At that moment though I thought this was rather odd, I basked in the glory of someone actually excited to have someone meet me and had hoped my escort was listening. "Hi Scott. It's me. Larry Kramer from El Rodeo" he emoted, A wave of guilt started to take me over as the fellow before me, bright eyed an happy to see me, was not someone I was especially close to at El Rodeo. The guilt came as I noted the incongruity of his joyfulness at seeing someone (me) who wasn't especially overly friendly at El Rodeo but apparently brought back a good memory for Larry. That made me feel sort of good after a few more moments. I remember that.
"Scott, this is my Dad, Stanley. Dad, this is Scott Lane. We went to El Rodeo together" said Larry proudly. Not exactly sure what I said after that as frankly I was in "shock and awe". I do recall not gushing or fainting but being polite and telling Larry how good it was to see him again. The rest of the evening was spent alone with my date telling her who Stanley Kramer was and thinking I'd probably not take her out again as she seemed to have little interest.
Several years later while working at Warner Bros., I found out that Stanley Kramer was directing a film on the lot. I made my way over to the sound stage and they were in rough rehearsals and staging. During the break, I walked over to SK and introduced myself as Larry's friend who he met awhile back at the Luau. He was pretty stoic and just nodded then walked away. I wish Larry was there to re-introduce me in his kind and generous way. To Larry! Thank you and bless you
Sheli Lerman (Thoman)
Sincere condolences to Larry's family. I remember Larry and I were in a dance contest at The Beverly Hills Cotillion. His dad was one of the judges and with each couple getting eliminated, we were feeling more and more confident. Turns out we won. I still have that trophy.
Carol Tarcher (Tarcher-Ellis)
Larry and I were in Mr. Ingle's intro to acting class. I had recently transfered to Beverly and (after one week) knew no one. Larry made it his business to sit next to me and introduce himself as Larry. He was kind and observed the world.
My condolences to his wife and family. Larry was special.
Ronald Garris
Doug,
Well said!
Although I barely knew Larry, I do extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.