Invited to US by cousing Carl Laemmle, head of Universal Studios

Began career at Universal Studios, New York as shipping clerk; then worked in foreign publicity

Transferred to Universal City, Hollywood

Immigrated to USA

First film as assistant director, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame"

Film directing debut at age 23, "Crook Busters"

Left Universal; began working for independent producer Samuel Goldwyn; first collaboration with cinematographer Gregg Toland

Served in England with US Air Force during WWII; produced, wrote and co-photographed documentary, "Memphis Belle" (1944) and co-directed (with John Sturges) documentary "Thunderbolt" (1945); discharged as lieutenant colonel