Andrew Bergman

Biography

Andrew Bergman (February 20, 1945 – January 30, 2025) was an American screenwriter, director, producer, and author known for his work in comedy, crime films, and romantic stories. He was particularly recognized for creating witty characters and combining humor with elements of crime and New York life.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Bergman was born on February 20, 1945, in New York City. He developed an early interest in writing and comedy and eventually pursued a career as a screenwriter and author.

His background in literature and comedy strongly influenced his later work, which often featured clever dialogue, satire, and eccentric characters.

Screenwriting Career

Bergman began gaining attention as a screenwriter during the 1970s. He worked on several successful comedies and became known for his ability to mix humor with crime and social satire.

One of his early notable screenwriting credits was Blazing Saddles (1974), directed by Mel Brooks. Bergman helped develop the screenplay for the celebrated western comedy, which became one of the most influential comedies of its era.

He subsequently worked on films including:

• The In-Laws (1979)
• So Fine (1981)
• The Freshman (1990)
• Honeymoon in Vegas (1992)
• Striptease (1996)
• It Could Happen to You (1994)

The Freshman

One of Bergman's most recognizable films was The Freshman (1990), which he wrote and directed.

The film stars Matthew Broderick as Clark Kellogg, a young film student who arrives in New York and becomes involved with a mobster named Carmine Sabatini, played by Marlon Brando.

Brando's character deliberately parodies his iconic role as Don Vito Corleone in The Godfather. The film combines crime-comedy elements with a coming-of-age story and Bergman's trademark New York humor.

Directing Career

Bergman made his directorial debut with So Fine (1981), a comedy starring Ryan O'Neal.

He later directed several films, including:

• The Freshman (1990)
• Honeymoon in Vegas (1992)
• It Could Happen to You (1994)
• The Favor (1994)
• Striptease (1996)

His films often combined romantic comedy, crime, satire, and larger-than-life characters.

Honeymoon in Vegas

Bergman wrote and directed Honeymoon in Vegas (1992), starring Nicolas Cage, Sarah Jessica Parker, and James Caan.

The film follows a man whose wedding plans become complicated after he loses a large amount of money in a poker game. It became a popular romantic comedy and is remembered for its energetic humor and unusual plot.

It Could Happen to You

In It Could Happen to You (1994), Bergman wrote the screenplay for a romantic comedy starring Nicolas Cage and Bridget Fonda.

The story centers on a police officer who promises a waitress that he will share his lottery winnings with her if he wins. The film became another example of Bergman's interest in ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances.

Television and Other Writing

Bergman also worked in television and wrote extensively outside the film industry. He published novels and nonfiction works and was known for his literary approach to comedy.

His books included The Big Kiss-Off of 1944, Hollywood and Levine, and Sleepless Nights and Kisses for Breakfast.

Personal Life

Bergman was married to Victoria Blythe, and they had two children. He maintained strong connections to New York, which frequently served as an inspiration for his writing.

Death

Andrew Bergman died on January 30, 2025, at the age of 79.