While many directors dream of fame and notoriety, Roger Corman didn’t share that desire. Hollywood is an ostentatious town, where the bold and confident seem to thrive. However, Corman didn’t need to see his name in lights to understand that he was accomplished. “I don’t think I’m going to be remembered in any major way,” said Corman during an interview with USA Today. “But I’d like to be known simply as a filmmaker. For two things, I should say: One, for the films I’ve made, and two, for the filmmakers I’ve mentored.”

No one with any sense could argue that Corman wasn’t a successful director. Having been responsible for films like House of Usher (1960) and The Little Shop of Horrors (1960), Corman became a well-respected creative in the horror industry, known for his hard work and passion. “I love the process of making stop motion pictures,” said the director. I don’t believe I’ll ever stop.” Corman kept that sentiment throughout his career. The creative continued making films well into the early 2010s, producing movies like Sharktopus (2010).

Corman also served as a mentor for several up-and-coming directors, many of whom are well-known today. “He had an unanny knack for finding people who really, really wanted to make it in the movie business and would work extra hard and work that extra day and come in at night on their own time to try and make their picture better,” said director Joe Dante. Dante, who was later responsible for films like Gremlins (1984), looked to Corman as a mentor and idol. “That kind of perfectionism bred people like Scorsese and Cameron. People who just want to do it right.”