A legendary figure in the history of motion picture sound effects, Ben Burtt virtually invented the job of sound designer by his innovative creations for such films as “Star Wars” (1977) and its five sequels, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1982), “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial” (1982) and “WALL-E” (2008). Though Burtt worked frequently in fantasy and adventure genres for directors George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, his creations were largely borne from organic sources – animal cries, found objects ranging from power lines to shopping carts, and even his own voice – which added startling levels of
First film credit, provided additional sound effects for "The Milpitas Monster"
Hired by producer Gary Kurtz to begin developing sound effects for George Lucas' "Star Wars"
1977
Received a special achievement Academy Award for creating the memorable sounds for "Star Wars"
1980
Received his first sound design credit for Lucas' "The Empire Strikes Back"
1981
First collaboration with director Steven Spielberg as sound designer for Lucas' "Raiders of the Lost Ark"; earned second special achievement Academy Award
