Raised in England

Began career as an office boy for a London film distributor

Joined brother at Marleybone Studios

Volunteered to be an ambulance driver in the Spanish Civil War; was almost captured twice

Co-founded Charter Films with brother Roy

First short film, "The Landlady", directed by Roy and produced by John

Served as a mechanic in the Royal Air Force during WWII; eventually made first lieutenant

During WWII, produced three compilation documentaries helmed by brother Roy, "Desert Victory" (1943), "Tunisian Victory" (1944, with assistance from Frank Capra) and "Burma Victory" (1945)

Feature directing debut, "Journey Together"; also produced and wrote; made for the RAF

Helmed "Brighton Rock", co-written by Graham Greene (adapted from his novel) and Terrence Rattigan

Contributed "The Magic Box" to the Festival of Britain

Joined British Lion Films

Directed "Private's Progress"

Helmed the controversial satire "I'm Alright Jack"

Final film as director, "Rotten to the Core"