Lucio Fulci was an influential Italian film director, screenwriter, and producer, renowned for his contributions to the horror genre. Born on June 17, 1927, in Rome, Italy, he began his career in the film industry as a screenwriter and assistant director before stepping into the role of director. Fulci gained a cult following with his work on gory and atmospheric horror films, particularly notable for titles like "Zombie" (1979), "The Beyond" (1981), and "City of the Living Dead" (1980). His films are celebrated for their distinctive style, blending surreal imagery with graphic violence, which earned him the moniker "The Godfather of Gore." Despite passing away on March 13, 1996, Fulci’s legacy continues to influence filmmakers and horror enthusiasts around the world.